These ’70s Music Stars Had Everyone Up On Their Feet – And This Is Where They Are Today

Whether you were a disco dancer or a punk rocker, the 1970s was a glorious time to be a music fan. But how many of the icons that soundtracked the era managed to sustain their success long after the decade drew to a close, and how many disappeared back into obscurity? Here’s a look at where 40 of the era’s biggest stars are now.

40. Joan Jett

Joan Jett shot to fame as a member of The Runaways before fronting her own band The Blackhearts. She’s since continued to inspire and support generations of female musicians. Alongside launching her own label, Jett has worked with artists as diverse as riot grrrl pioneers Bikini Kill and American Idol’s Carrie Underwood. In 2018 she recorded a new track, “Fresh Start,” for a documentary about her life, Bad Reputation.

39. Paul McCartney

The most successful solo Beatle with the help of longevity, Paul McCartney kicked off the 1980s by twice duetting with another superstar, Michael Jackson. Following return-to-form with Flowers in the Dirt, the Liverpudlian established a pattern of launching mammoth world tours. He’s also explored several other eclectic musical avenues including electronic duo The Fireman and an album full of classical works. In 2020 McCartney reached number two in the United States with his third eponymous LP.

38. Bruce Springsteen

Bruce Springsteen is one of those 1970s’ stars who remains just as vital today. The Boss enjoyed monster success in the early MTV era with Born in the USA. And in 2002 he perfectly judged the post-9/11 mood of the nation with The Rising. More recently Springsteen has joined his regular E Street Band on stage for a Broadway show which, thanks to a Netflix screening, later won an Emmy.

37. Elton John

From singing at Princess Diana’s funeral to composing a multiple Tony-winning musical, Elton John has had quite the eventful career since his 1970s’ commercial heyday. The Rocket Man has also achieved success with The Lion King soundtrack and been given the big screen biopic treatment where he was portrayed by Taron Egerton. And John continues to sell out stadiums with his anthemic piano-pop today.