5 Donna Summer tracks that defined the disco era

You can’t talk about disco without talking about the late Donna Summer. She is disco. And her music defined much of the 1970s. A time of flared pants, sequins and infectious grooves. And though that era may be over, her music still has us moving our hips to this day.

Marcia Sings Summer is a tribute concert to Donna Summer’s groovalicious legacy. Featuring Marcia Hines, a beloved national treasure and Australian music icon. And special guest Casey Donovan, the youngest winner of Australian Idol.

Ahead of the season, we thought we’d look back at the Donna Summer tracks that defined the disco era. 

Hot Stuff

1979

Arguably Donna Summer’s biggest hit. This song is so infectious, even if the name doesn’t sound familiar, you’ve definitely heard it. There’s still plenty of disco in the bones of the track, but its pop-rock influences give it a gritty edge. 

Bad Girls

1979

The title track of her seventh album, Bad Girls was another US chart topper and helped cement her status as the ‘Queen of Disco’. Summers’ record label wanted to pass the song on to Cher, so she put it away for a few years before releasing it..

On the Radio

1979

On the Radio is a catchy disco pop treat commissioned for the movie Foxes featuring Jodie Foster. The song was such a hit it went on to have its own life beyond the movie.

Love to Love You Baby

1975

For this steamy track, Donna channelled her inner Marilyn Monroe. Despite it’s erotic nature, it’s the infectious melody and groove that make this single stand out. The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame even named it one of the 500 Songs That Shaped Rock and Roll. Younger music fans might be familiar with the song through Beyonce - she sampled it for her sensual track Naughty Girl.

I Feel Love

1977

This smash hit blew people’s minds. And even went on to inspire the likes of David Bowie, Underworld and Kylie Minogue. But did you know it was originally a B side? Someone had the sense to re-release it as the A side, letting it become the phenomenon it deserved to be. Its fresh sound also laid down the track for electronic dance music.

To get your disco fix, catch Marcia Sings Summer in the Concert Hall this 10 and 11 October.