Totally Annoying Hit Songs From the 1970s

This 1976 novelty song humorously satirizes disco with silly lyrics and a Donald Duck voice, achieving an unlikely number-one spot on the Billboard Hot 100.

“Disco Duck” by Rick Dees and His Cast of Idiots

The 1972 hit by Captain & Tennille, about a romantic encounter between muskrats, exemplifies cheesy 1970s easy listening with its overly sentimental lyrics.

“Muskrat Love” by Captain & Tennille

The 1976 Grammy-winning song features flirtatious lyrics about post-lunch romance, with lines that suggest a need for a cold shower.

“Afternoon Delight” by Starland Vocal Band

Judy Collins' version of Stephen Sondheim’s reflective ballad from A Little Night Music is noted for its ponderous lyrics that lack profound meaning.

“Send in the Clowns” by Judy Collins

Rupert Holmes' 1979 hit describes a man's escape from a stale relationship through a personal ad seeking someone with quirky interests like piña coladas.

“Escape (The Piña Colada Song)” by Rupert Holmes

The 1974 song by Morris Albert, known for its repetitive “whoa whoa whoa” chorus, is considered excessively sentimental and emotionally intense.

“Feelings” by Morris Albert

Debby Boone’s 1977 hit, which topped the charts for 10 weeks, features earnest lyrics about love and inspiration, delivered with heavy conviction.

“You Light Up My Life” by Debby Boone

Melissa Manchester’s 1978 cover, featuring advice to suppress emotions, is both memorable and ridiculed for its questionable wisdom on emotional expression.

“Don’t Cry Out Loud” by Melissa Manchester