1977
in MusicAlbums
19
Artists
15
Milestones
12
Notable Releases
We Are the Champions
Freddie MercuryIconic anthem, voted as one of the greatest songs of all time.
Got to Give It Up
Marvin GayeStudio song from the Live at the London Palladium album that charted at No. 1 and contributed to the album's success of over 2 million copies sold. Later became subject of landmark copyright case.
Zombie
Fela KutiScathing critique of Nigerian military brutality that achieved massive commercial success and sparked government retaliation
Sorrow Tears and Blood
Fela KutiPolitical commentary track later covered by American singer Bilal and featured in Grand Theft Auto: IV
Lovely Day
Bill WithersSet record for longest sustained note on American chart hit at 18 seconds; reached number 7 in UK, remixed version climbed to number 4 in 1988
Soweto Blues
Miriam MakebaWritten by Hugh Masekela in response to the 1976 Soweto uprising, featuring 'searingly righteous lyrics' that became a staple of her live performances.
Here You Come Again
Dolly PartonFirst million-seller album produced by pop producer Gary Klein, reaching number 20 on pop chart and marking her successful crossover into mainstream pop
Mull of Kintyre
Paul McCartneyWings' most successful single co-written with Denny Laine, becoming one of the best-selling singles in UK chart history with 2.5 million copies sold.
Wonderful Tonight
Eric ClaptonAcoustic ballad from the album 'Slowhand'; became one of his most popular and enduring compositions worldwide.
Significant Milestones
Live from the Met Telecast
DebutPerformed as Rodolfo in La bohème in the first Live from the Met telecast in March 1977, attracting one of the largest audiences ever for a televised opera.
Release of Zombie Album
AchievementReleased the album 'Zombie,' a massive commercial success that heavily criticized Nigerian soldiers and military methods, resulting in government raid on Kalakuta Republic that fatally injured his mother.
