“The only way to make sense of change is to plunge into it, move with it, and join the dance.”

– Alan Watts, 1970s philosopher

According to numerology, lucky number 7 is intelligent, refined, and carries a lot of inner wisdom. Some might even say it’s “doomed” to be fortuitous. What other qualities could you possibly ask for in a new year?

Answer: disco balls, environmental awareness, corduroy wardrobes, and this travel playlist I’ve pulled together from a decade literally swarming with that special number – the 70s.

So if you’re looking forward to wandering the seven continents in 2017, let these early musical explorers help you hustle/funk/robot along…

Jet Airliner – Steve Miller Band – 1977

If the 70s had just one travel anthem, it would be this. Determined guitar riff, airplane liftoff sounds and sincere lyrics call out to anyone who’s ever left home, for any reason. Ever. As you push up that window shade and watch the world shrink below, remember that Steve Miller Band knows exactly how you feel right now…

Getaway – Earth Wind Fire – 1976

“Ah get away / let’s leave today / let’s get away!” Not convinced yet? Spend four minutes with these funky sultans in the white suits, and you’ll feel otherwise.

Come Sail Away – Styx – 1977

Another invitation to seek adventure in the new year, where “We’ll search for tomorrow on every shore.” How could you say no to a band that uses the synthesizer so confidently?

Free Ride – Edgar Winter Group – 1973

“The mountain is high the valley is low / and you’re confused on which way to go. / So I’ve come here to give you a hand.” We all need a refreshed sense of a direction from time to time. Edgar and his pals offer help of the jam-out-wind0ws-down-road-trip kind.

Brandy (You’re A Fine Girl) – Looking Glass – 1972

For every gypsy who wanders, there’s someone left behind. Maybe you relate to Brandy, the fine girl, or maybe you’re more like the sailor who knows “my life, my lover, my lady is the sea.” Who pines for you when you’re not around?

Out In The Country – Three Dog Night – 1970

This ode to fresh air and green spaces comes from one of the more creatively named bands of the decade. Best known for their chime-along “Joy To The World”, they mellow out a bit here with a classic description of itchy feet. “When life becomes to fast I find relief at last / out in the country.”

I’ve Got The Music In Me – The Kiki Dee Band – 1974

Mid-playlist is always a good place for a pep-up tune. Life on the road can be full of irritations and challenges, missed buses and stomach bugs. Do like Kiki and her band: “When something gets in my way, I go around it.”

Rocket Man – Elton John – 1972

When not singing with Kiki Dee in Madison Square Garden (listen above), Elton was songwriting about the physical and emotional distances of travel. “Til touch down brings me ’round again to find / I’m not the man they think I was at all.”

Fly Robin Fly – Silver Connection – 1975

Three words, on repeat over some dubious (or fantastic) dance moves. Maybe that’s how all your adventures should start this year: with a simple, yet enthusiastic, step forward.

Wild World – Cat Stevens – 1970

Cat could be sending off an old friend or a child. While his words contain a warning – “It’s hard to get by just upon a smile” – they’re ultimately hopeful. Naivete isn’t always a bad thing in a wild world.

Me And Julio Down By The Schoolyard – Paul Simon – 1972

“Well I’m on my way / I don’t know where I’m going / I’m on my way I’m taking my time” could be a personal motto this year. And always.

One Toke Over The Line – Brewer & Shipley – 1970

It was the era of free love and drugs, after all… and maybe at this stage in the journey (or playlist) you’re one lost piece of luggage, or one rude Customs Officer over the line, instead. “I’m waitin for the train that goes home sweet Mary / hopin’ that the train is on time.”

Runnin’ On Empty – Jackson Browne – 1977

“Looking out at the road rushing under my wheels / Looking back at the years gone by like so many summer fields.” Take it literally or take it metaphorically; this song is layered with beautiful messages.

Mr. Blue Sky – Electric Light Orchestra – 1977

Signing off your playlist with the ultimate in optimism, Electric Light Orchestra’s quirky melody is guaranteed to start a smile. It’s your trip, your moment in the sun – as they said in the 70s, peace out and keep truckin.

Want more songs to boost your lucky (201)7 plans? Dream brighter with musical motivation from this New Year’s Eve playlist!