1976 No. 1 Hit 'Disco Duck' Voted Worst Song of the '70s

Rolling Stone readers ranked the top 10 worst songs of the decade, with Rick Dees' novelty hit taking the top spot.

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

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In a poll conducted by Rolling Stone, readers voted 'Disco Duck' by Rick Dees as the worst song of the 1970s. Other songs that made the top 10 worst list included 'Afternoon Delight,' 'Muskrat Love,' and 'Feelings.' The article discusses how some of the decade's biggest hits have not aged well and become the targets of mockery and disdain from music fans.

Why it matters

This poll highlights how musical tastes can change dramatically over time, with songs that were once hugely popular becoming punchlines decades later. It also speaks to the subjective nature of music criticism and the divide that can exist between commercial success and critical acclaim.

The details

The top 10 worst songs of the 1970s as voted by Rolling Stone readers are: 1. 'Disco Duck' by Rick Dees, 2. 'Afternoon Delight' by Starlight Vocal Band, 3. '(You're) Having My Baby' by Paul Anka, 4. 'You Light Up My Life' by Debby Boone, 5. 'Muskrat Love' by The Captain & Tennille, 6. 'Escape (The Pina Colada Song)' by Rupert Holmes, 7. 'Seasons in the Sun' by Terry Jacks, 8. 'Billy Don't Be a Hero' by Bo Donaldson and The Heywoods, 9. 'Feelings' by Morris Albert, and 10. 'Loving You' by Minnie Riperton.

  • The poll was conducted by Rolling Stone in 2026.

The players

Rick Dees

A Memphis DJ whose 1976 novelty hit 'Disco Duck' was voted the worst song of the 1970s by Rolling Stone readers.

Rolling Stone

The iconic music magazine that conducted the poll of readers to determine the top 10 worst songs of the 1970s.

Minnie Riperton

The late singer-songwriter whose 1974 hit 'Loving You' was ranked as the 10th worst song of the 1970s, despite her impressive vocal abilities.

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The takeaway

This poll serves as a reminder that musical tastes are highly subjective and can shift dramatically over time. What was once a hugely popular hit can become a punchline decades later, highlighting the ephemeral nature of commercial success in the music industry.