It is quite uncommon to find someone who does not like at least some genre of music. This form of art has been in existence since time in memorial. It has social and cultural significance to the society as well as being entertaining. Today, there are many different genres most of which came into existence during one of the most important decades in music. The seventies saw the rise of many legends from Stevie Wonder to Bob Marley. It also saw the production of
Hinsons The Lighthouse among other popular hits.
Music from the seventies was produced for not only entertainment but also addressed important issues that were occurring at the time. Many songs focused on the government of the day and events that were occurring globally. Artistes like Jimi Hendrix produced songs about the Vietnamese War. The industry was characterized with mature themed songs and rich material. Many artistes criticized bad governance and leadership.
There was a rise in different styles each unique to the artiste that created them. This was in an attempt to penetrate the market and sell records. This saw the introduction of disco beats. This sound was different and appealed to young people who liked loud and fast beats. Other sounds included the fusion of country with Pop culture and sounds. Reggae also gained prominence in this decade.
Stiff competition in this period resulted in the need for relevance in this industry. There was a big need for new and fresh ideas. Groups like the Hinsons needed a change of content and material from what they normally practiced. Their biggest signature song, The Lighthouse, was written out of this necessity. It later propelled them to stardom.
Music from the seventies was more mature and softer than the rebelliousness of the previous decade. It set the tone for the happy and joyous songs that came in later years. The first half saw the market embrace upbeat disco sounds while the latter part saw relaxed sound that focused on content and excellence. In fact, Disco was renounced due to its commercialization and silliness
The seventies produced many legends and opportunities to achieve greatness. The Hinsons created a unique sound and followed it with a great performance routine. This saw the group categorized as a radical act. Despite this, the audience loved the group and this saw them tour the country. They mixed country music with a more contemporary beat.
Creativity was huge in the seventies. It was necessary because there was a lot of competition in the industry for prominence, airplay and record sales. A good example is the crossover of Bob Marley into unchartered Reggae territory. Country artistes like John Denver, Dolly Parton and Kenny Rodgers all crossed over from Pop.
The seventies was a great period that saw the advent of many musical hits, styles and creations. Many bands got their breakthroughs in this period with some achieving international stardom and record sales. Many groups like The Hinsons peaked in this period touring the country. One of the members Ronny Hinson has since become a renowned gospel songwriter winning any accolades and awards.