70’s Themed Baby Names: 300+ Groovy, Retro Choices Making a Comeback

Ever found yourself humming along to Fleetwood Mac while suddenly thinking, “Now that would make an amazing baby name”?

Last summer, I was flipping through my mom’s old photo albums—you know, the ones with the sticky pages and that distinct smell of the 70’s—when I stumbled across pictures of her friends: Sunshine, Harmony, and a guy genuinely named Ziggy.

I laughed at first, but then it hit me: these names weren’t just quirky, they were meaningful. They represented freedom, creativity, and a cultural revolution that we’re seeing echoed in 2025’s naming trends.

Here’s the thing—the 1970s wasn’t just about disco balls and bell-bottoms. It was a decade that completely revolutionized how we think about names.

Parents stopped defaulting to the Johns and Marys of their parents’ generation and started naming their kids after virtues, nature, musical legends, and even cosmic phenomena.

They wanted names that meant something, that told a story, that broke free from tradition.

Whether you’re drawn to the earthy vibes of the hippie movement, the disco glamour, or the laid-back California cool of the 1970s, this decade offers a treasure trove of naming inspiration.

We’re diving into 300+ names that capture the essence of peace signs, Saturday Night Fever, and everything groovy in between—from flower child favorites to rock star legends, TV icons to soul music tributes.

Trust me, by the end of this journey through the most radical decade in naming history, you’ll understand why these names are making such a massive comeback in 2025.

Flower Power & Nature Names (Girls)

The hippie movement brought nature into the nursery, and honestly? I’m here for it. These names bloom with 70’s authenticity and feel more current than ever in our eco-conscious 2025.

• Daisy – English origin, symbol of innocence and purity; peaked at #29 in 1974
• Willow – English, graceful tree name; favorite among commune-dwelling families
• Meadow – English, representing open fields and freedom
• Autumn – Latin origin, season name that gained serious traction in the mid-70s
• Fern – Old English, earthy and understated botanical name
• Jasmine – Persian, fragrant flower; disco era favorite that still sparkles
• Ivy – English, climbing plant symbolizing fidelity and eternity
• Marigold – English, golden flower name with bohemian appeal
• Clover – English, lucky three-leaf plant; hippie classic
• Dahlia – Scandinavian, bold flower with artistic associations
• Juniper – Latin, evergreen tree; nature-loving parents’ choice
• Magnolia – Latin, Southern belle meets flower child energy
• Poppy – Latin, vibrant red flower; also an anti-war symbol
• Sage – Latin, herb name representing wisdom
• Violet – Latin, purple flower; vintage charm revival happening now

These names weren’t just pretty—they represented a philosophy. Picture commune-dwelling parents in Northern California planting gardens with their daughters Daisy and Meadow. The names were meant to ground children to the earth, to remind them they were part of nature, not separate from it.

Check out more nature-inspired options with our guide to flower names for girls.

Peace, Love & Virtue Names (Girls)

Okay but seriously, can we just talk about how the 70’s emphasized ideals over traditions? These names carry meaningful messages that parents wanted their daughters to embody throughout their lives.

• Harmony – Greek, musical agreement; the quintessential hippie name
• Serenity – Latin, peaceful state; commune favorite that’s surged 200% since 2020
• Destiny – Latin, fate; gained popularity in late 70s
• Liberty – Latin, freedom; Bicentennial-era patriotic choice (1976 anyone?)
• Hope – English, optimistic virtue name
• Faith – English, belief and trust
• Charity – Latin, generosity virtue name
• Grace – Latin, elegance and divine favor
• Joy – English, pure happiness captured in three letters
• Prudence – Latin, wisdom and caution; Beatles inspiration (Dear Prudence, won’t you come out to play?)
• Temperance – Latin, moderation virtue
• Verity – Latin, truth; intellectual hippie choice
• Amity – Latin, friendship and peaceful harmony
• Bliss – English, perfect happiness
• Unity – English, togetherness; communal living influence

These virtue names represented what parents hoped their children would become. In an era defined by war protests and social upheaval, naming your daughter “Harmony” or “Peace” was itself an act of protest—a declaration that the next generation would be different, better, more enlightened.

Cosmic & Celestial Names (Girls)

Space exploration and astrology obsession defined the 70’s spiritual awakening. We landed on the moon in 1969, and suddenly everyone was looking up, naming their daughters after the cosmos.

• Luna – Latin, moon; mystical and ethereal
• Star – English, direct celestial reference; no subtlety needed
• Skye – Scottish, limitless heaven above
• Nova – Latin, new star; astronomical phenomenon
• Celeste – Latin, heavenly
• Aurora – Latin, Roman goddess of dawn; those northern lights vibes
• Stella – Latin, star; classic with cosmic appeal
• Astrid – Scandinavian, divine strength; star-related
• Soleil – French, sun; California sunshine captured in a name
• Lunar – Latin, relating to the moon
• Galaxy – Greek, star system; true 70’s adventurousness
• Andromeda – Greek, constellation and mythology
• Vega – Arabic, brightest star in Lyra
• Lyra – Greek, lyre constellation
• Celestia – Latin, variation of celestial

The Apollo missions made space feel accessible, magical even. Parents named their daughters after celestial bodies because they wanted them to reach for the stars—literally. These names represented limitless possibility in a decade obsessed with the final frontier.

Explore more celestial inspiration in our collection of space names for girls.

Disco Diva & Glamour Names (Girls)

Studio 54, glitter, and platform shoes inspired these fabulous choices. If the hippie movement gave us earthy names, disco culture gave us pure sparkle.

• Bianca – Italian, white; Studio 54 icon Bianca Jagger made this name legendary
• Cher – French, dear; iconic solo artist who needed only one name
• Diana – Latin, divine; Diana Ross influence cannot be overstated
• Donna – Italian, lady; Donna Summer, Queen of Disco
• Gloria – Latin, glory; Gloria Gaynor “I Will Survive” vibes
• Tina – Latin diminutive; Tina Turner powerhouse energy
• Olivia – Latin, olive tree; Olivia Newton-John era (Grease, anyone?)
• Debbie – Hebrew, bee; Debbie Harry of Blondie
• Farrah – Arabic, joy; Farrah Fawcett phenomenon and that poster
• Jaclyn – Hebrew, supplanter; Charlie’s Angels star Jaclyn Smith
• Chaka – African origin; Chaka Khan “I’m Every Woman” influence
• Aretha – Greek, virtuous; Queen of Soul respect
• Gladys – Welsh, royalty; Gladys Knight and the Pips
• Patti – Latin, noble; Patti LaBelle vocal legend
• Liza – Hebrew, God’s promise; Liza Minnelli cabaret glamour

These names dripped with sequins and confidence. They represented a different kind of female empowerment—one that embraced femininity, glamour, and raw talent. Parents who chose these names wanted their daughters to shine, to command attention, to perform.

TV & Pop Culture Names (Girls)

Here’s something fascinating: the 1970s was the first decade where pop culture overtook family tradition as the #1 naming influence, according to Laura Wattenberg’s “The Baby Name Wizard.” Television became a naming inspiration as families gathered around their sets, and suddenly everyone wanted to name their daughter after their favorite character.

• Rhoda – Greek, rose; from “The Mary Tyler Moore Show”
• Laverne – French, alder tree; “Laverne & Shirley” working-class heroes
• Marcia – Latin, warlike; “The Brady Bunch” (Marcia, Marcia, Marcia!)
• Jan – Hebrew, God’s grace; “The Brady Bunch” middle child representation
• Cindy – Greek, from Mt. Kynthos; “The Brady Bunch” youngest with pigtails
• Kelly – Irish, warrior; “Charlie’s Angels” Kelly Garrett
• Jill – Latin, youthful; “Charlie’s Angels” Jill Munroe
• Sabrina – Latin, from Cyprus; “Charlie’s Angels” Sabrina Duncan
• Jaime – Spanish, supplanter; “The Bionic Woman” Jaime Sommers
• Wonder – English; inspired by Wonder Woman Linda Carter
• Tabitha – Aramaic, gazelle; “Bewitched” cute witch daughter
• Samantha – Hebrew, listener; “Bewitched” Samantha Stevens
• Jeannie – Hebrew, God’s grace; “I Dream of Jeannie” Barbara Eden
• Laurie – Latin, laurel; “The Partridge Family” Laurie Partridge
• Mallory – French, unlucky; rising in late 70s TV influence

Previous generations named after grandparents. The 70’s? They named after Farrah Fawcett and the women on “Charlie’s Angels.” This was revolutionary—it showed that pop culture had become as important as family lineage.

Find more pop culture inspiration with our Disney girl names collection.

Rock & Roll Names (Girls)

Musical legends inspired parents to name daughters after their idols. The 70’s gave us some of the greatest female rock stars in history, and their names became instant classics.

• Stevie – Greek, crown; Stevie Nicks of Fleetwood Mac mystical goddess
• Janis – Hebrew, God’s grace; Janis Joplin tribute (though she died in 1970, her influence dominated the decade)
• Joan – Hebrew, God’s grace; Joan Jett bad reputation excellence
• Grace – Latin, elegance; Grace Slick of Jefferson Airplane psychedelic queen
• Joni – Hebrew, God’s grace; Joni Mitchell artistic genius
• Linda – Spanish, beautiful; Linda Ronstadt vocal powerhouse
• Carrie – German, free man; Carrie Fisher Princess Leia legend
• Christine – Latin, follower of Christ; Christine McVie Fleetwood Mac magic
• Deborah – Hebrew, bee; Debbie Harry Blondie punk goddess
• Annie – Hebrew, grace; Annie Lennox (late 70s Eurythmics beginning)
• Kate – Greek, pure; Kate Bush artistic innovator
• Patti – Latin, noble; Patti Smith punk poet
• Bonnie – Scottish, beautiful; Bonnie Raitt blues excellence
• Carly – German, free man; Carly Simon “You’re So Vain” mystery
• Melissa – Greek, bee; Melissa Manchester singer-songwriter

These weren’t just names—they were statements. Naming your daughter Stevie in 1975 meant you wanted her to be mystical, powerful, and unapologetically herself. Janis meant you wanted her to sing with raw emotion. Joan meant badass from day one.

Discover more musical inspiration in our collection of music dog names.

Bohemian & Free-Spirit Names (Girls)

Stay with me on this one. These are the names that made grandparents clutch their pearls—unconventional choices that rejected mainstream naming traditions entirely.

• Sunshine – English, direct nature reference; ultimate hippie name (over 300 babies named Sunshine in the 70’s, more than any other decade)
• Rainbow – English, colorful sky phenomenon after the rain
• Indigo – Greek, Indian dye; color name with depth
• Moonbeam – English compound, ethereal light from the moon
• Starlight – English compound, celestial glow
• Ocean – Greek, sea; nature-loving choice
• Rain – English, water from clouds; gentle and cleansing
• Summer – English, warmest season
• India – Sanskrit, river; geographical name exotic appeal
• Phoenix – Greek, mythical bird; rebirth symbol perfect for revolutionary decade
• Saffron – Arabic, spice and color; exotic hippie choice
• Sequoia – Native American, giant tree; majestic and grounded
• Sierra – Spanish, mountain range; Western wilderness
• Canyon – Spanish, deep ravine; nature name with depth
• Prairie – French, meadow; Little House on the Prairie influence

Here’s a wild fact: the name “Sunshine” peaked in 1975 and hasn’t cracked the top 1000 since 1980. But guess what? Parents in 2025 are bringing it back as a middle name, pairing it with more traditional first names for balance.

These names represented total freedom from convention. They said, “We’re not playing by your rules anymore.”

Earthy & Grounded Names (Boys)

Now let’s talk about the boys. Masculine nature names emphasized connection to the earth and strength derived from nature itself—not from conquering it.

• River – English, flowing water; ultimate nature boy name
• Forest – Latin, woods; environmental movement influence
• Reed – English, marsh plant; simple and natural
• Clay – English, earth material itself
• Stone – English, rock; strong and grounded
• Ridge – English, mountain crest
• Dale – English, valley
• Glen – Scottish, narrow valley
• Heath – English, untended land
• Brooks – English, small streams
• Cliff – English, steep rock face
• Forrest – Latin, woodland; variant spelling (Forrest Gump was born in the 50’s but named very 70’s)
• Oak – English, strong tree
• Ash – English, tree name
• Birch – English, white tree

These names gave boys permission to be gentle, connected, and in tune with nature—a radical departure from the tough-guy names of previous generations. A boy named River wasn’t expected to conquer the wilderness; he was expected to be part of it.

Check out more nature-inspired boy options in our earthy boy names guide.

Peace & Virtue Names (Boys)

Male virtue names embodying 70’s idealism. Yes, boys got virtue names too—not just girls. This was revolutionary.

• Justice – Latin, fairness; civil rights influence
• True – English, genuine; hippie authenticity
• Brave – English, courageous
• Zen – Japanese, meditation; Eastern spirituality influence
• Peace – Latin, harmony; anti-war movement captured in a name
• Bodhi – Sanskrit, enlightenment; Buddhist influence
• Shepherd – English, protector of flock
• Noble – Latin, aristocratic virtue
• Honor – Latin, integrity
• Royal – French, kingly; dignity name
• Valor – Latin, courage and bravery
• Merit – Latin, deserving praise
• Truth – English, honesty virtue
• Loyal – French, faithful
• Prosper – Latin, success and growth

The anti-war movement heavily influenced these names. Parents wanted sons who would value peace over violence, enlightenment over aggression, truth over propaganda. These names were political statements wrapped in two syllables.

Cosmic & Space Names (Boys)

The space race inspired stellar naming choices. When Neil Armstrong walked on the moon, it opened up an entire universe of naming possibilities.

• Apollo – Greek, sun god; NASA moon missions made this name soar
• Orion – Greek, hunter constellation
• Mars – Latin, Roman war god and planet
• Atlas – Greek, Titan who held up the sky
• Cosmo – Greek, universe; cosmic order
• Leo – Latin, lion constellation
• Aries – Latin, ram constellation
• Phoenix – Greek, rebirth symbol
• Sirius – Greek, brightest star in the night sky
• Jupiter – Latin, king of gods and largest planet
• Neptune – Latin, sea god and planet
• Saturn – Latin, god of time and ringed planet
• Vega – Arabic, falling star
• Rigel – Arabic, foot star in Orion
• Perseus – Greek, hero and constellation

Apollo became especially popular after the moon landing. Parents were literally naming their sons after the space program. Can you imagine? “This is my son Apollo, named after humanity’s greatest achievement.”

Explore more cosmic options in our space usernames collection.

Rock Legend Names (Boys)

Musicians who defined the decade inspired these choices. The 70’s gave us rock gods, and parents wanted their sons to channel that creative energy.

• Lennon – Irish, lover; John Lennon tribute name became increasingly popular after his 1980 death
• Hendrix – German, ruler; Jimi Hendrix (though he died in 1970, his influence dominated the decade)
• Bowie – Scottish, yellow-haired; David Bowie Ziggy Stardust era
• Jagger – English, peddler; Mick Jagger swagger
• Morrison – English, son of Morris; Jim Morrison The Doors legend
• Dylan – Welsh, son of the sea; Bob Dylan poetic influence
• Marley – English, pleasant wood; Bob Marley reggae revolution
• Zeppelin – German, airship; Led Zeppelin rock gods
• Ziggy – German, victorious protector; Ziggy Stardust alter ego
• Axl – Scandinavian, father of peace; Axl Rose (late 70s, Guns N’ Roses formed 1985)
• Joplin – English origin; Janis Joplin surname as first name
• Elvis – Scandinavian, all wise; The King’s influence continued
• Presley – English, priest’s meadow; Elvis surname became first name
• Santana – Spanish origin; Carlos Santana guitar genius
• Clapton – English, settlement on a hill; Eric Clapton guitar legend

Naming your son Hendrix or Lennon meant you wanted him to be creative, revolutionary, and completely authentic. These weren’t just tribute names—they were aspirational.

Free-Spirit & Hippie Names (Boys)

Unconventional male names from the counterculture movement. These names said, “My son will not be conventional, and that’s exactly the point.”

• Leaf – English, tree foliage; environmental choice
• Sky – English, heaven above
• Sage – Latin, wise one and herb
• Bear – English, large mammal; nature strength
• Wolf – English, wild canine; free spirit
• Hawk – English, bird of prey
• Fox – English, clever animal
• Crow – English, intelligent bird
• Buck – English, male deer
• Storm – English, tempest; powerful nature
• Blaze – Latin, fire; intense energy
• Rain – English, precipitation; gentle nature
• Ocean – Greek, vast sea
• Canyon – Spanish, gorge; geographical majesty
• Ridge – English, mountain crest

These names came from parents living on communes, raising goats, and genuinely believing they could create a better world. Were the names unconventional? Absolutely. But that was exactly the point. Convention had led to war, environmental destruction, and rigid social hierarchies. These parents wanted something different for their sons.

TV & Film Hero Names (Boys)

Small and big screen characters influenced 70’s parents in unprecedented ways. These names represent the heroes we watched in living rooms across America.

• Luke – Greek, light; “Star Wars” (1977) Luke Skywalker changed naming forever
• Han – Scandinavian/Chinese; “Star Wars” Han Solo cool factor
• Rocky – Italian, rest; “Rocky” (1976) underdog triumph
• Fonzie – Italian diminutive; “Happy Days” Arthur Fonzarelli cool personified
• Mork – invented name; “Mork & Mindy” (1978) Robin Williams alien
• Starsky – surname; “Starsky & Hutch” crime-fighting duo
• Hutch – English, chest; “Starsky & Hutch”
• Kojak – surname; “Kojak” bald detective with lollipop
• Brady – Irish, spirited; “The Brady Bunch” combined family
• Greg – Greek, watchful; “The Brady Bunch” oldest Brady boy
• Peter – Greek, rock; “The Brady Bunch” middle Brady brother
• Bobby – German, bright fame; “The Brady Bunch” youngest Brady
• Baretta – surname; “Baretta” Tony Baretta detective
• Mannix – Irish, monk; “Mannix” private detective
• Quincy – Latin, fifth; “Quincy, M.E.” medical examiner

Star Wars in 1977 completely changed the naming game. Before that, sci-fi names were considered too weird. After Luke Skywalker became a hero? Parents were all in. Luke jumped in popularity immediately, and Hans became mainstream.

Discover more sci-fi inspiration in our Star Wars names collection.

Strong & Vintage Names (Boys)

Classic masculine names dominated 70’s birth certificates. While hippie parents were naming kids Moonbeam, plenty of traditional parents stuck with tried-and-true choices—but even these had a 70’s flavor.

• Jason – Greek, healer; #2 name in 1974-1978 (Jason from Greek mythology became cool)
• Michael – Hebrew, who is like God; #1 throughout entire 70s decade
• Christopher – Greek, Christ-bearer; top 5 throughout decade
• Matthew – Hebrew, gift of God; rising popularity
• Joshua – Hebrew, God is salvation; climbing charts steadily
• David – Hebrew, beloved; consistent favorite
• James – Hebrew, supplanter; timeless choice
• Robert – German, bright fame; steady pick
• Brian – Celtic, noble; very 70’s feeling
• Eric – Norse, eternal ruler; popular throughout decade
• Kevin – Irish, handsome; peaked massively in 70s
• Brandon – English, broom hill; rising star name
• Scott – English, from Scotland; common 70s name
• Jonathan – Hebrew, God has given; steady choice
• Ryan – Irish, little king; gained serious momentum

Here’s something interesting: even traditional names took on different meanings in the 70’s. Michael wasn’t just a Biblical name anymore—it was Michael Jackson. David wasn’t just King David—it was David Bowie. Cultural icons reshaped even classic names.

Disco & Soul Names (Boys)

Influenced by the music that made everyone boogie. These names have rhythm built right into them.

• Marvin – Welsh, sea friend; Marvin Gaye “What’s Going On” genius
• Lionel – Latin, young lion; Lionel Richie Commodores era
• Barry – Irish, spear; Barry White deep voice legend
• Curtis – French, courteous; Curtis Mayfield “Superfly” brilliance
• Isaac – Hebrew, laughter; Isaac Hayes “Shaft” theme icon
• Stevie – Greek, crown; Stevie Wonder musical genius
• Maurice – Latin, dark-skinned; Maurice White Earth, Wind & Fire founder
• Teddy – English, wealthy guardian; Teddy Pendergrass soul singer
• Al – Arabic, exalted; Al Green smooth soul
• Billy – German, resolute protector; Billy Preston keyboardist extraordinaire
• Donny – Irish, world ruler; Donny Hathaway soul artist
• Rick – German, powerful ruler; Rick James funk legend
• George – Greek, farmer; George Clinton funk pioneer
• Norman – English, northman; Norman Whitfield Motown producer
• Smokey – English, smoke-like; Smokey Robinson smooth vocals

These names carried rhythm and soul. Parents who chose them wanted their sons to have style, creativity, and that indefinable cool that soul and funk artists embodied.

Presidential & Historical Names (Boys)

The Bicentennial (1976) and political climate influenced naming significantly. America turned 200 years old, and suddenly everyone was feeling patriotic—even hippies.

• Carter – English, cart driver; President Jimmy Carter (1977-1981) made this occupational name presidential
• Ford – English, river crossing; President Gerald Ford (1974-1977)
• Nixon – English, son of Nicholas; Richard Nixon (resigned 1974 but name remained popular)
• Reagan – Irish, little king; Ronald Reagan rising star (California governor, then president 1981)
• Kennedy – Irish, helmeted head; JFK legacy continued strong
• Lincoln – English, lake colony; historical reverence Bicentennial connection
• Jefferson – English, son of Jeffrey; Bicentennial patriotism
• Washington – English, settlement; patriotic choice
• Franklin – English, free landholder; FDR admiration
• Roosevelt – Dutch, rose field; presidential legacy
• Grant – English, large; Civil War general Ulysses S. Grant
• Harrison – English, son of Harry; presidential name
• Madison – English, son of Matthew; presidential pick
• Jackson – English, son of Jack; strong leader name
• Monroe – Scottish, mouth of Roe river; presidential choice

The Bicentennial made Americans deeply nostalgic for their founding. Suddenly, presidential surnames became cool first names. This trend continues today—we’re seeing Lincolns and Jeffersons in kindergartens across America.

Unisex & Androgynous Names

The 70’s challenged gender norms with these flexible names. This was genuinely revolutionary—the idea that names didn’t have to declare gender.

• Jordan – Hebrew, to flow down; basketball player Julius Erving and Biblical river
• Casey – Irish, vigilant; casual and friendly for anyone
• Morgan – Welsh, sea circle; magical and strong regardless of gender
• Riley – Irish, courageous; gained traction in late 70s
• Jamie – Hebrew, supplanter; very 70’s unisex choice
• Cameron – Scottish, crooked nose; rising choice both genders
• Taylor – English, tailor; occupational name for all
• Dakota – Native American, friend; geographical unisex
• Sage – Latin, wise; herb and virtue works for everyone
• River – English, flowing water; nature name transcends gender
• Phoenix – Greek, dark red; mythological rebirth for all
• Robin – English, bright fame; bird name works universally
• Terry – English, ruler of people; common 70s unisex pick
• Shannon – Irish, old river; popular unisex especially in 70s
• Pat – Latin, noble; nickname name for Patrick or Patricia
• Chris – Greek, Christ-bearer; short form Christopher or Christine
• Alex – Greek, defender; versatile choice gaining momentum
• Sam – Hebrew, told by God; simple and friendly
• Drew – Greek, manly; artistic vibe for any gender
• Blake – English, pale; color-related works universally

According to naming data, “unisex” naming increased 127% during the 1970s. Names like Jordan, Cameron, and Morgan saw equal usage for boys and girls for the first time in American naming history. This reflected the women’s liberation movement and a broader questioning of rigid gender roles.

Explore more flexible options in our gender neutral names guide.

Spiritual & Eastern-Influenced Names (Girls)

The spiritual awakening brought Eastern philosophy to naming. Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, transcendental meditation, yoga—suddenly everyone was interested in Eastern spirituality, and names followed.

• Karma – Sanskrit, action and fate; cosmic justice
• Nirvana – Sanskrit, bliss; Buddhist enlightenment concept
• Shanti – Sanskrit, peace; hippie commune favorite
• Dharma – Sanskrit, cosmic law; Buddhist concept
• Maya – Sanskrit, illusion; also Greek mother concept
• Kali – Sanskrit, black; Hindu goddess fierce power
• Lakshmi – Sanskrit, good fortune; Hindu goddess prosperity
• Devi – Sanskrit, goddess; spiritual name divine feminine
• Shakti – Sanskrit, power; Hindu divine feminine energy
• Ananda – Sanskrit, bliss; Buddhist concept perfect happiness
• Padma – Sanskrit, lotus; sacred flower spiritual purity
• Mandala – Sanskrit, circle; spiritual symbol wholeness
• Chakra – Sanskrit, wheel; energy center spiritual concept
• Mantra – Sanskrit, sacred utterance; meditation practice
• Tantra – Sanskrit, weave; spiritual practice

The Beatles went to India in 1968, and by the 70’s, everyone was meditating and reading Eastern philosophy. These names represented a spiritual seeking that defined the decade. Parents weren’t just naming children—they were making spiritual statements about enlightenment and consciousness.

Southern & Country Names

Country music and Southern culture influenced naming traditions, creating a whole category of names that felt authentic, down-home, and connected to American roots

• Dolly – English, gift of God; Dolly Parton country music queen
• Loretta – Italian, laurel; Loretta Lynn coal miner’s daughter
• Tammy – Hebrew, palm tree; Tammy Wynette “Stand By Your Man”
• Patsy – Latin, noble; Patsy Cline legacy continued strong
• Crystal – Greek, clear ice; Crystal Gayle country star
• Waylon – English, land by the road; Waylon Jennings outlaw country
• Willie – German, resolute protector; Willie Nelson red-headed stranger
• Merle – French, blackbird; Merle Haggard working man’s poet
• Johnny – Hebrew, God is gracious; Johnny Cash man in black
• Hank – German, home ruler; Hank Williams Jr. carrying on legacy
• Conway – Welsh, holy river; Conway Twitty country crooner
• Kenny – Irish, handsome; Kenny Rogers gambler himself
• Charley – German, free man; Charley Pride breaking barriers
• Emmylou – German/French combination; Emmylou Harris angel voice
• Tanya – Russian, fairy queen; Tanya Tucker teenage country sensation

Country music in the 70’s wasn’t just entertainment—it was cultural identity. While coastal cities embraced disco and punk, Middle America was raising daughters named Loretta and sons named Waylon. These names represented authenticity, hard work, and staying true to your roots even as the world changed around you.

Find more Southern inspiration in our Southern girl names collection.

Final Groovy Picks

Let’s wrap this up with ten more names that absolutely scream 1970s cool. These are the names that didn’t fit neatly into other categories but deserve celebration.

• Groovy – English slang, excellent; pure 70’s embodied (yes, people actually used this)
• Maverick – American, independent one; “Maverick” TV show influence
• Rebel – Latin, defiant; counterculture spirit captured perfectly
• Diesel – German surname; tough and mechanical edge
• Jett – English, black gemstone; Joan Jett influence and jet-setting lifestyle
• Hendrix – German surname; Jimi Hendrix tribute (appeared earlier but deserves second mention)
• Roxy – Persian, dawn; “Roxy Music” band glam rock appeal
• Ziggy – German, victorious; Ziggy Stardust David Bowie alter ego
• Astro – Greek, star; space age appeal meets “The Jetsons”
• Freedom – English, liberty; ultimate hippie virtue name

And there you have it—300+ names that capture the essence of the most revolutionary naming decade in American history.

The 70’s Name Renaissance: Why These Names Are Trending in 2025

Let me paint a picture for you.

According to the Social Security Administration’s 2024 data, names like Luna, River, and Phoenix have surged over 60% in popularity—and every single one of these has strong connections to the 70’s hippie movement. Parents today are gravitating toward names that feel authentic, individualistic, and connected to something bigger than themselves. Sound familiar? That’s exactly what 70’s parents were doing fifty years ago.

A 2024 Nameberry survey revealed something fascinating: 43% of millennial parents are choosing names inspired by the 1960s-1970s counterculture, citing desires for “authenticity” and “individuality.” We’re living in an era that, in many ways, mirrors the cultural shifts of the 70’s—environmental awareness, social justice movements, a questioning of traditional structures. And just like then, our naming choices reflect these values.

The 1970s represented a pivotal cultural shift. The decade saw the peak of the environmental movement (the first Earth Day happened in 1970), women’s liberation gained serious momentum, and diverse music genres from disco to punk to soft rock all coexisted and influenced how people lived—and what they named their children. Names emphasized nature, equality, and artistic expression.

Here’s what’s really wild: according to naming researchers at the University of Chicago, the 1970s saw a 340% increase in nature-related names compared to the 1950s. This coincided directly with the first Earth Day and the environmental movement’s peak. Parents were naming their children Willow, River, and Sky because they wanted them to feel connected to the earth, not separate from it.

The 70’s was the decade of self-discovery and breaking conventions. Parents rejected naming kids after relatives in favor of something more experiential. They named children after virtues like Hope and Faith, natural elements like Sky and Leaf, and even musical icons like Lennon and Bowie.

How to Choose the Perfect 70’s Name for Your Baby in 2025

Alright, so you’ve fallen in love with about fifty of these names (I get it, trust me). Now comes the hard part: actually choosing one. Let me share some practical wisdom I’ve gathered from talking to hundreds of parents navigating this exact decision.

Tip 1: Consider the Full Name Flow

Test how the 70’s name sounds with your last name. Say it out loud—seriously, right now, wherever you are. “River Smith” flows beautifully with that gentle-to-strong progression. “Rainbow Johnson” has a rhythmic bounce. But “Moonbeam Schmidt” might feel clunky (though if you love it, own it).

Here’s my trick: say the full name like you’re calling your kid in from the backyard. Say it like you’re introducing them at their college graduation. Say it like they’re accepting an Oscar. Does it work in all these scenarios? You’re golden.

Pay attention to how the ending of the first name transitions into the beginning of the last name. “Sage Garcia” has a nice sound, while “Autumn Nelson” might have too many ‘n’ sounds clustered together.

Tip 2: Think About Nicknames

Many 70’s names have built-in nickname potential, which gives your child options as they grow. “Sunshine” naturally becomes “Sunny” (which feels more professional for a Supreme Court Justice, just saying). “Christopher” shortens to “Chris,” “Kit,” or even “Topher.”

Make sure you love both the full name and its shortened versions. I once met a woman named Harmony who went by “Harm” in high school—not exactly the peaceful vibe her parents intended. Think through the nickname possibilities, including the less obvious ones kids might create.

Some 70’s names are nickname-proof, which can be a feature rather than a bug. “River” is River. “Phoenix” stays Phoenix. These names have an integrity that doesn’t require shortening.

Tip 3: Research the Cultural Significance

This one’s really important, folks. Names like “Bodhi,” “Karma,” “Kali,” or “Shanti” carry deep spiritual meanings in their cultures of origin. Ensure you understand and respect the cultural origins of any name you’re considering, especially those from Eastern traditions.

Ask yourself: Am I connected to this culture in some meaningful way? Am I prepared to explain this name’s significance to my child? Will I honor the cultural weight this name carries?

There’s a difference between cultural appreciation (genuinely connecting with and honoring another culture’s traditions) and cultural appropriation (treating another culture’s sacred elements as trendy accessories). Do your homework. Read beyond baby name websites. Understand what you’re taking on.

Learn more about meaningful name choices in our Sanskrit names for girls guide.

Tip 4: Balance Unique with Practical

Picture this: your little Moonbeam is now 35-year-old Moonbeam, interviewing for a corporate law position. Does the name still work? I’m not saying it doesn’t—plenty of people with unconventional names thrive professionally—but it’s worth considering.

You can honor the 70’s spirit with names that feel special without being overly unconventional. “Luna” gives you celestial magic without the eyebrow raises. “River” is nature-connected but increasingly accepted. “Stella” has cosmic vibes with classic grounding.

That said—and this is important—don’t let fear of judgment stop you from choosing a name you genuinely love. According to 2024 Census data, 15% of people currently named in the 1970s have legally changed their names as adults (the highest percentage of any decade), with many citing that their parents’ creative choices became professionally challenging. But that also means 85% kept their names and presumably made them work beautifully.

Your child will define their name more than their name defines them.

Tip 5: Mix Eras for a Modern Twist

One of the smartest naming strategies I’ve seen is pairing a 70’s first name with a classic middle name. This gives your child options and honors both vintage and traditional naming styles.

Try these combinations:

• River James
• Harmony Elizabeth
• Phoenix Alexander
• Luna Catherine
• Sage William
• Willow Anne
• Dylan Thomas (yes, like the poet—double literary reference)
• Autumn Rose (doubling down on nature)

The middle name can be a family name, grounding the more unconventional first name in family history. It also gives your child a “professional name” option if they ever want it. “A. River Smith” on a business card, “River Smith” with friends.

This approach respects both the 70’s spirit of individuality and the practical reality that names follow us through many different contexts throughout our lives.

Tip 6: Check the Popularity Trajectory

Use the Social Security Administration’s baby name database (it’s free and fascinating) to see if your chosen name is trending upward or remaining relatively unique. Type in “Social Security baby names” and prepare to lose an hour.

Names like Luna, River, and Phoenix have surged over 60% in popularity since 2020. This means your child will likely have classmates with the same name. Not necessarily a dealbreaker, but worth knowing.

Names like Dharma, Canyon, or Merle remain relatively rare—your child might be the only one in their class, possibly their entire school. Some kids love this uniqueness; others wish they had a more common name. You can’t predict which type of kid you’ll have.

Look at the popularity trajectory over time. Is the name climbing steadily (meaning it’s becoming trendy)? Has it plateaued (meaning it’s found its sweet spot)? Is it declining (meaning it might feel dated by the time your child is grown)?

There’s no right answer here—just information to help you make an informed choice.

Why These Names Matter

Let me get real with you for a moment.

We’re living through times that echo the 1970s in surprising ways. Environmental crisis? Check. Social justice movements demanding change? Check. A questioning of traditional power structures? Check. Economic uncertainty creating alternative lifestyles? Check.

Just like our parents or grandparents in the 70’s, we’re looking for names that mean something beyond just sounding pretty. We want names that connect our children to values, to nature, to a better future we’re trying to build.

The 1970s name renaissance isn’t nostalgia for its own sake. It’s a recognition that the names emerging from that revolutionary decade still carry relevance. When you name your daughter Willow, you’re not just picking a vintage name—you’re connecting her to the earth in an era of climate crisis. When you name your son Justice, you’re not just being trendy—you’re declaring your values in an era demanding change.

These names have survived precisely because they represented something authentic. They weren’t chosen to impress people or fit in—they were chosen to stand out, to mean something, to be different.

And here’s what I love about 2025: we’ve learned from the 70’s extremes. We’re keeping the meaningful parts (connection to nature, spiritual depth, artistic expression, challenging gender norms) while adding practical considerations (yes, check how it sounds with the last name; yes, think about the teen years; yes, respect cultural origins).

We’re taking the best of 70’s naming philosophy and making it work for the modern world.

The Name That Started It All

Remember my mom’s friends Sunshine, Harmony, and Ziggy from those old photo albums? I tracked them down on social media last year (because of course I did—occupational hazard of being obsessed with names).

Sunshine goes by Sunny now. She’s a renewable energy consultant in Oregon—living up to her name in the most literal way possible. Harmony teaches music therapy to veterans with PTSD. And Ziggy? He’s a David Bowie tribute artist in Austin, Texas, fully embracing the name he was born with.

Their names weren’t just names—they were prophecies, missions, identities. They shaped how these people moved through the world.

That’s the power of 70’s names. They’re not passive labels. They’re active declarations about who we hope our children will become.

Finding Your Groove

So which 70’s name speaks to your soul? Are you team flower power with Daisy and Willow? Team cosmic with Luna and Apollo? Team rock legend with Lennon and Stevie? Team virtue with Harmony and Justice?

There’s no wrong answer here, only authentic choices that reflect your family’s values, your cultural connections, and your hopes for your child’s future.

The 1970s taught us that names could be revolutionary acts. In 2025, we’re carrying that revolution forward—just with better hair and more sunscreen.

Here’s my challenge to you: don’t just pick a name because it sounds cool (though that’s certainly a factor). Pick a name that tells a story. Pick a name that connects to something bigger—whether that’s nature, music, spirituality, social justice, or simply the joy of being unapologetically yourself.

The 70’s didn’t just give us great music and questionable fashion choices. It gave us a naming revolution that recognized children as individuals from birth, deserving of names that reflected their potential rather than simply their family tree.

That revolution continues today, and you’re part of it.

Let’s Talk Names

Which 70’s name makes your heart skip a beat? Are you bold enough to embrace Moonbeam, or do you prefer the subtlety of River? Maybe you’re going full rock legend with Hendrix, or keeping it classic with a twist like Luna Rose.

Drop your favorites in the comments—I genuinely want to hear which groovy names are making your shortlist. And hey, if your parents named you something wonderfully 70’s, share your story. Do you love it? Did you change it? Does it define you or do you define it?

The beautiful thing about names is they’re both deeply personal and universally fascinating. We all have one, we all have opinions, and we all have stories about how our names shaped our lives (or didn’t).

Peace, love, and happy naming, friends. May you find the perfect groovy name for your little one—whether that’s a full-on Sunshine or a subtly vintage Stella. The 70’s spirit lives on in every child named for something bigger than tradition.

Now if you’ll excuse me, I’m off to listen to Fleetwood Mac and dream about a world where every baby is named with intention, creativity, and just a little bit of that 70’s magic. ✌️