History's Best Selling Products of 1977

1. Low

   Released in 1977 by David Bowie, RCA Records

   On January 14, 1977, the music world received a transmission from a radically different David Bowie. Following his commercially successful but personally tumultuous period in Los Angeles, Bowie had relocated to West Berlin to escape the pressures of fame and drug addiction. It was in this stark, divided city that he created "Low," the first installment of his revered "Berlin Trilogy." Released on this day, the album was a shocking and profound departure from the glam rock and soul stylings that had made him a superstar. Listeners expecting another "Ziggy Stardust" or "Young Americans" were instead confronted with fragmented, abstract rock songs on one side and stark, atmospheric instrumentals on the other. It was a bold artistic statement that redefined Bowie's career and challenged the boundaries of popular music.

2. Animals

   Released in 1977 by Pink Floyd, Harvest Records, Columbia Records

   On January 21, 1977, British rock legends Pink Floyd released their tenth studio album, "Animals," in the United Kingdom. This date marked the arrival of a stark, cynical, and politically charged concept album that stood in bleak contrast to the escapism of disco and the raw fury of the burgeoning punk rock movement. While its predecessor, "Wish You Were Here," was a lament for a lost friend, "Animals" turned its gaze outward, offering a scathing critique of socio-political conditions in 1970s Britain. The album's release on this day cemented a new, darker chapter in the band's evolution, using George Orwell's "Animal Farm" as a framework to dissect human society's class struggles and moral decay.

3. Roots (1977 miniseries)

   Released in 1977 by Alex Haley, ABC

   On January 23, 1977, American television history was irrevocably changed with the broadcast premiere of 'Part I' of the miniseries *Roots*. This wasn't just another show; it was a national event that captivated an unprecedented audience over eight consecutive nights. Based on Alex Haley's novel, the series' debut marked the beginning of a cultural phenomenon, shattering viewership records and forcing a national conversation about the history of slavery in America. Its premiere on this date is a milestone not just for its commercial success, but for its profound and lasting social impact.

4. Rumours

   Released in 1977 by Fleetwood Mac, Warner Bros. Records

   On February 4, 1977, the music world received a masterpiece born from intense personal turmoil: Fleetwood Mac's eleventh studio album, "Rumours." Released amidst the emotional wreckage of multiple romantic breakups within the band, the album was a raw, public diary set to music. The two couples in the group—bassist John McVie and keyboardist-vocalist Christine McVie, and guitarist-vocalist Lindsey Buckingham and vocalist Stevie Nicks—were in the process of separating, while drummer Mick Fleetwood was also going through a divorce. This emotional crucible became the unlikely furnace that forged one of the most successful and enduring albums in history, transforming their pain into a universally relatable artistic statement.

5. Marquee Moon

   Released in 1977 by Television, Elektra Records

   On February 8, 1977, the landscape of rock music was irrevocably altered with the release of "Marquee Moon," the debut studio album by the New York City band Television. Arriving amidst the raw, three-chord fury of the burgeoning punk rock movement centered around clubs like CBGB, "Marquee Moon" offered a startlingly different vision. While it shared the same downtown scene and anti-establishment energy as bands like the Ramones, Television's sound was complex, intricate, and almost literary in its ambition. The album's release on this date marked a pivotal moment, demonstrating that punk's spirit could be channeled not just through primal force, but also through virtuosic musicianship, poetic lyricism, and sophisticated song structures, effectively laying the groundwork for post-punk and alternative rock.

6. Annie Hall

   Released in 1977 by Woody Allen, Diane Keaton, United Artists

   Premiering on April 20, 1977, "Annie Hall" was not just another romantic comedy; it was a revolutionary cinematic event that deconstructed the genre itself. Directed by and starring Woody Allen, the film broke narrative conventions and infused its story with a level of psychological depth, sharp wit, and bittersweet reality rarely seen in mainstream cinema. Its release date marks the debut of a film that would not only win the Academy Award for Best Picture but would also fundamentally change audience expectations for what a love story could be on screen, leaving an indelible mark on filmmaking for generations to come.

7. Book of Dreams

   Released in 1977 by Steve Miller Band, Capitol Records

   On May 6, 1977, the Steve Miller Band released "Book of Dreams," continuing an incredible run of commercial and artistic success that had started with "The Joker" and exploded with 1976's "Fly Like an Eagle." Released almost exactly a year after its predecessor, "Book of Dreams" felt like a companion piece, with many of its tracks recorded during the same prolific sessions. The album arrived at a moment when Miller had perfected his blend of blues-rock, pop hooks, and psychedelic-tinged space rock, solidifying his status as a titan of AOR (Album-Oriented Rock) radio. The release cemented the band's position at the pinnacle of the music world, delivering another collection of songs that would become permanent fixtures on classic rock playlists for decades to come.

8. Star Wars: A New Hope

   Released in 1977 by George Lucas, Lucasfilm Ltd., 20th Century Fox

   On May 25, 1977, the cinematic landscape was irrevocably altered with the premiere of "Star Wars." Released in just 32 theaters, George Lucas's sprawling space opera was an ambitious and risky venture that few in Hollywood believed in. Combining classic mythological archetypes with cutting-edge special effects, it told the story of a farm boy, a princess, and a cynical smuggler battling a tyrannical Galactic Empire. This seemingly simple tale would explode into a cultural phenomenon, launching one of the most successful media franchises in history. Its release on this date marked the beginning of the modern blockbuster era, forever changing how movies were made, marketed, and experienced by audiences.

9. Smokey and the Bandit

   Released in 1977 by Hal Needham, Universal Pictures

   On May 27, 1977, American cinema was forever changed with the premiere of "Smokey and the Bandit." Released just two days after "Star Wars," this high-octane action-comedy captured a completely different segment of the cultural zeitgeist. Directed by legendary stuntman Hal Needham, the film was a celebration of car culture, anti-authoritarian charm, and the charismatic swagger of its star, Burt Reynolds. Its release tapped into a public fascination with CB radios and the rebellious spirit of the American South. The movie roared into theaters, becoming an unexpected blockbuster phenomenon that would define a genre and cement its stars, including Sally Field and Jackie Gleason, as cinematic icons for a generation.

10. Color TV-Game

    Released in 1977 by Nintendo

    On June 1, 1977, Nintendo, a company then known primarily for playing cards and toys, took its first pivotal step into the world of electronic entertainment. This date marks the Japanese release of the Color TV-Game 6, the company's first-ever home video game console. Developed in partnership with Mitsubishi Electric, this dedicated console was a direct response to the burgeoning popularity of arcade and home versions of Pong. Its launch represented a major strategic shift for Nintendo, planting the seed for what would become a global video game empire. The Color TV-Game was the essential training ground that paved the way for the Famicom and all subsequent Nintendo hardware.

11. Mattel Classic Football

    Released in 1977 by Mattel

    On June 1, 1977, Mattel officially launched a toy that would define a generation's entry into digital entertainment: Mattel Classic Football. In an era where video games were tethered to arcade cabinets or television sets, this device represented a monumental leap. The release marked the birth of the handheld electronic game market, a completely new category in the toy industry. It took the abstract concept of a video game and made it personal, portable, and accessible. This date isn't just about a new toy hitting the shelves; it signifies the moment the digital revolution landed in the palms of children's hands, setting the stage for decades of mobile gaming innovation that would follow.

12. A Bridge Too Far

    Released in 1977 by Richard Attenborough, United Artists

    The grand cinematic spectacle "A Bridge Too Far" made its highly anticipated world theatrical premiere on June 15, 1977, instantly captivating audiences with its epic scope and star-studded cast. This ambitious war film, detailing the ill-fated Operation Market Garden, was a major event in cinematic history, aiming to deliver an unprecedented level of historical detail and immersive storytelling. Its launch was a testament to the colossal effort behind its production, setting the stage for a compelling and often somber reflection on one of World War II's most audacious and ultimately tragic campaigns, quickly establishing itself as a significant box office contender.

13. The Deep

    Released in 1977 by Peter Yates, Columbia Pictures

    The summer of 1977 was marked by cinematic milestones, and among them, Peter Yates' thrilling underwater adventure 'The Deep' made a significant splash. Premiering on June 17, 1977, this film, based on Peter Benchley's best-selling novel, captivated audiences with its exotic Bermuda setting, suspenseful treasure hunt, and stunning underwater cinematography. Its release was a highly anticipated event, riding on the wave of Benchley's previous success with 'Jaws,' promising another dose of aquatic thrills. The movie quickly established itself as a major box office success, drawing in millions and solidifying its place as one of the year's top-grossing films. This specific date marks the beginning of its widespread commercial exhibition, making it a pivotal moment in 1977's cinematic landscape.

14. The Grand Illusion

    Released in 1977 by Styx, A&M Records

    Released on July 7, 1977, Styx's seventh studio album, "The Grand Illusion," arrived at a perfect cultural moment. The mid-to-late 1970s saw the peak of 'arena rock' or 'pomp rock,' a genre characterized by grandiose arrangements, slick production, and themes of personal triumph. Styx, having already achieved some success, seized this moment to release a concept album that would define their career. The album was a meditation on the struggle between dreams and reality in the face of American commercialism, urging listeners to see beyond the 'grand illusion' of fame and material success and to believe in themselves. This message, wrapped in radio-friendly rock, was poised to conquer the airwaves.

15. The Spy Who Loved Me

    Released in 1977 by Lewis Gilbert, United Artists

    July 7, 1977, marked the eagerly anticipated world theatrical premiere of 'The Spy Who Loved Me' at the Odeon Leicester Square in London, heralding the tenth official James Bond film from Eon Productions. This date was special as it introduced audiences to what many consider a peak in Roger Moore's tenure as Agent 007, blending spectacular action with his signature wit. The film was an instant commercial success, quickly establishing itself as a global box office phenomenon and receiving critical acclaim for its ambitious scale and thrilling set pieces. Its launch underscored the enduring appeal of the Bond franchise, demonstrating its capacity to evolve while retaining the core elements that fans cherished, solidifying its place in cinematic history.

16. I Robot (album)

    Released in 1977 by The Alan Parsons Project, Arista Records

    On July 8, 1977, The Alan Parsons Project released their second studio album, "I Robot." This release came at a time when progressive rock was still a dominant force, but also on the cusp of being challenged by the punk and new wave movements. The album's futuristic themes, drawn from Isaac Asimov's science fiction stories, tapped into a growing cultural fascination with technology, artificial intelligence, and the future of humanity. The release solidified the band's reputation for creating conceptually rich, sonically pristine albums, offering a sophisticated and thought-provoking alternative to the rawer sounds emerging in the late 1970s music landscape.

17. Atari 2600

    Released in 1977 by Atari

    On September 11, 1977, Atari Inc. fundamentally altered the landscape of home entertainment with the release of the Atari Video Computer System (VCS), later rebranded as the Atari 2600. This date marks the pivot from dedicated, single-game home consoles like Pong to a dynamic new paradigm: a programmable, microprocessor-based system that used swappable game cartridges. For a launch price of $199, consumers received the console, two joystick controllers, a pair of paddle controllers, and the Combat game cartridge. This launch didn't just introduce a new product; it introduced the very concept of a home video game library, setting the stage for the second generation of consoles and igniting a cultural phenomenon that would define the late 1970s and early 1980s.

18. The Silmarillion

    Released in 1977 by J. R. R. Tolkien, George Allen & Unwin

    The Silmarillion wasn't just a book launch in 1977; it was the literary event legions of J.R.R. Tolkien fans had been awaiting for decades. Published posthumously, it immediately ascended to the top of bestseller lists, selling over a million copies within months. This epic tome offered readers an unprecedented journey into the deep history of Middle-earth, a world previously only glimpsed in 'The Hobbit' and 'The Lord of the Rings'. Its release was a cultural phenomenon, tapping into the enduring global fascination with Tolkien's meticulously crafted mythology and solidifying his legacy as the progenitor of modern fantasy literature. The sheer anticipation surrounding its arrival transformed it into a landmark publication of the late 20th century.

19. Star Wars Action Figure

    Released in 1977 by Kenner

    On October 1, 1977, toy company Kenner Products initiated one of the most famous and unusual marketing campaigns in history. Following the unprecedented success of the film 'Star Wars' released earlier that year, demand for merchandise was astronomical. Kenner, who had secured the master toy license, was caught unprepared and could not manufacture action figures in time for the crucial Christmas shopping season. Their solution was the 'Early Bird Certificate Package.' Released this month, it was essentially an empty box sold as a placeholder, containing a mail-in certificate that promised to deliver the first four action figures to customers in the new year. This audacious strategy aimed to capture holiday sales with the mere promise of a future toy.

20. Oh, God!

    Released in 1977 by Carl Reiner, Warner Bros.

    The release of "Oh, God!" on October 7, 1977, marked a pivotal moment for comedy films that dared to blend humor with profound spiritual themes. This groundbreaking movie, starring the inimitable George Burns as the Almighty and pop icon John Denver as his reluctant messenger, quickly captivated audiences across North America. Its unique premise – God choosing an ordinary supermarket manager to deliver His message to humanity – offered a fresh, gentle, yet deeply thought-provoking narrative. The film was an instant commercial success, far exceeding expectations and demonstrating a widespread appetite for intelligent, character-driven comedy. This particular date wasn't just a premiere; it was the launch of a cultural phenomenon that would resonate for decades, proving that laughter could indeed be divine.

21. "Heroes"

    Released in 1977 by David Bowie, Brian Eno, Tony Visconti, RCA Records

    Released on October 14, 1977, David Bowie's twelfth studio album, "Heroes", marked the creative apex of his celebrated 'Berlin Trilogy.' Recorded at Hansa Studio by the Wall in West Berlin, the album's atmosphere is deeply infused with the political and social tensions of the Cold War. This specific date marks the moment the world first heard this ambitious and bifurcated work, a record that captured the essence of a city divided yet resilient. It wasn't just another album release; it was a profound artistic statement, using the stark reality of the Berlin Wall as a backdrop for exploring themes of alienation, escape, and defiant love, creating a powerful and enduring musical document of its time and place.

22. Bat Out of Hell

    Released in 1977 by Meat Loaf, Jim Steinman, Todd Rundgren, Cleveland International Records, Epic Records

    On October 21, 1977, in a music landscape dominated by punk rock's raw energy and disco's shimmering pulse, a sonic behemoth was unleashed. "Bat Out of Hell," the epic collaboration between vocalist Meat Loaf and composer Jim Steinman, crashed into the scene with the force of a teenage fever dream. It was an album out of time, rejecting contemporary trends in favor of a bombastic, Wagnerian style of rock and roll that fused 1950s teenage tragedy songs with the grandeur of opera. Its release on this date marked the beginning of a slow-burn success story that would see it become one of the best-selling and most enduring albums in music history.

23. News of the World

    Released in 1977 by Queen, EMI Records, Elektra Records

    On October 28, 1977, as the punk rock movement was aggressively challenging the rock establishment, Queen unleashed their sixth studio album, 'News of the World'. Released in the wake of their ornate and layered predecessor, 'A Day at the Races', this album was a deliberate and defiant pivot. The band, often criticized by punk purists as bloated and pretentious, responded not by retreating, but by creating a more direct, raw, and universally anthemic sound. The release of this album marked a pivotal moment, showcasing Queen's remarkable ability to adapt and connect with a mass audience on an unprecedented scale, proving their stadium-sized ambitions were more potent than ever.

24. Saturday Night Fever (The Original Movie Sound Track)

    Released in 1977 by Bee Gees, Various Artists, RSO Records

    On November 15, 1977, the world of music and film was irrevocably changed with the release of the soundtrack for "Saturday Night Fever." The album was not merely a collection of songs to accompany a movie; it was a cultural event that ignited a global phenomenon. In the late 1970s, disco was a thriving subculture, but this soundtrack, powered by the rejuvenated Bee Gees, thrust it into the mainstream spotlight. The album's release didn't just coincide with the film's premiere; it defined it, creating a symbiotic relationship where the music became the driving force of the narrative and the movie became the visual representation of the album's sound, capturing the hopes, dreams, and dance-floor escapism of an entire generation.

25. Close Encounters of the Third Kind

    Released in 1977 by Steven Spielberg, Columbia Pictures

    The world first experienced the awe-inspiring vision of "Close Encounters of the Third Kind" on November 16, 1977, with its premiere in select cities before a wider release. This cinematic event marked Steven Spielberg's ambitious follow-up to his blockbuster "Jaws," shifting from terror to transcendent wonder. More than just a film, it was an invitation to look skyward with hope, challenging conventional sci-fi narratives of alien invasion with a story of peaceful first contact. Its launch was not merely a date on the calendar; it was the moment audiences worldwide were introduced to a new era of science fiction, setting box office records and cementing Spielberg's reputation as a master storyteller capable of both thrills and profound emotional depth. This particular date signifies the initial unveiling of a movie that would leave an indelible mark on cinema history and cultural imagination.

26. Slowhand

    Released in 1977 by Eric Clapton, RSO Records

    On November 25, 1977, Eric Clapton released 'Slowhand,' an album that would cement his transition from a fiery blues-rock guitar god to a more laid-back, commercially successful solo artist. Released during a period of personal and professional change, the album captured a more relaxed and confident Clapton. The nickname 'Slowhand,' given to him in his Yardbirds days, was ironically perfect for an album that showcased his nuanced, melodic playing rather than sheer speed. The release marked a pivotal moment, presenting a collection of songs that were both radio-friendly and deeply rooted in Clapton's signature blues style, broadening his appeal to a massive global audience and producing some of the most enduring songs of his entire career.

27. The Goodbye Girl

    Released in 1977 by Herbert Ross, Warner Bros.

    The Goodbye Girl premiered on November 30, 1977, marking the debut of what would become one of the year's most beloved and commercially successful romantic comedies. This date heralded a critical and box office triumph, establishing its place as a quintessential film of the late 1970s. Penned by the legendary Neil Simon and directed by Herbert Ross, the film captured the hearts of audiences with its blend of sharp wit, genuine emotion, and stellar performances. Its release was a significant cultural moment, solidifying the careers of its stars, particularly Richard Dreyfuss, who would go on to win an Academy Award for Best Actor, a testament to the film's immediate impact and enduring appeal. The movie proved that character-driven narratives could dominate the box office, offering a refreshing counterpoint to the era's emerging blockbuster spectacles.

28. Saturday Night Fever

    Released in 1977 by John Badham, Paramount Pictures

    On December 16, 1977, the cinematic landscape was forever changed with the premiere of 'Saturday Night Fever.' This date marked the arrival of a phenomenon that captured the pulsating energy of the disco era, turning a modest budget film into a global box office sensation. Propelling John Travolta to superstardom and cementing the Bee Gees' legacy, the film wasn't just a movie; it was a cultural flashpoint, defining a generation's aspirations, anxieties, and desire for escape. Its release wasn't merely a film premiere; it was the ignition of a worldwide obsession with disco, dance, and the allure of Saturday night freedom, transforming entertainment and youth culture for years to come.

29. Bloodline

    Released in 1977 by Sidney Sheldon, William Morrow and Company

    Sidney Sheldon’s "Bloodline" burst onto the literary scene in 1977, instantly captivating millions and solidifying Sheldon's reputation as a master of suspense. Released at a time when audiences craved high-stakes drama and international intrigue, the novel quickly climbed bestseller lists, becoming a cultural phenomenon. Its thrilling narrative, featuring a compelling female protagonist thrust into a world of corporate espionage and deadly conspiracies, perfectly resonated with the public's desire for escapist fiction that was both glamorous and packed with unexpected twists. "Bloodline" was not just a book; it was an event, a testament to Sheldon's unique ability to craft stories that were impossible to put down, defining a genre for a generation.

30. Daniel Martin

    Released in 1977 by John Fowles, Little, Brown and Company

    The literary world buzzed in 1977 with the release of John Fowles's ambitious novel, 'Daniel Martin'. Following the massive success of 'The French Lieutenant's Woman', Fowles was a towering figure in contemporary literature, and anticipation for his next major work was immense. 'Daniel Martin' did not disappoint in terms of critical attention and sales, quickly securing its place on bestseller lists and becoming a significant cultural talking point. It represented a departure for Fowles, offering a deeply personal and philosophical exploration that resonated with a discerning readership eager for intellectual engagement and narrative depth.

31. Dreams Die First

    Released in 1977 by Harold Robbins, Simon & Schuster

    In 1977, Harold Robbins unleashed "Dreams Die First" upon an eager reading public, cementing his reputation as a master of the blockbuster novel. Released amidst a flurry of anticipation, the book immediately soared to the top of bestseller lists, captivating readers with its blend of gritty realism, high-stakes drama, and raw sensuality. It wasn't just a book; it was a cultural event, a must-read that dominated discussions and reflected the era's fascination with ambition, power, and the dark underbelly of Hollywood. Its sensational narrative and compelling characters made it an instant phenomenon, defining a significant part of popular fiction in the late 1970s.

32. Illusions: The Adventures of a Reluctant Messiah

    Released in 1977 by Richard Bach, Dell Publishing

    Richard Bach's 'Illusions: The Adventures of a Reluctant Messiah' burst onto the literary scene in 1977, quickly solidifying its place as a cultural phenomenon and a spiritual touchstone for millions. Following the monumental success of his earlier work, 'Jonathan Livingston Seagull,' Bach was already celebrated for his allegorical narratives and profound philosophical inquiries. 'Illusions' arrived with significant anticipation, and it did not disappoint, promptly ascending bestseller lists. The novel captivated an audience eager for introspection and self-discovery, providing a unique blend of adventure, metaphysics, and self-help. It became more than just a book; it was a guide for questioning the nature of reality and unlocking personal potential during an era ripe for spiritual exploration and New Age philosophies.

33. Oliver's Story

    Released in 1977 by Erich Segal, Harper & Row

    When Erich Segal released 'Oliver's Story' in 1977, anticipation was palpable, marking it as one of the year's most eagerly awaited literary events. As the highly anticipated sequel to his record-breaking 1970 phenomenon, 'Love Story,' this novel quickly recaptured the hearts of millions of readers worldwide. It wasn't just another book launch; it was a cultural moment, offering fans a longed-for glimpse into the life of Oliver Barrett IV after the tragic conclusion of his first love. The novel tapped into a collective curiosity, instantly soaring onto bestseller lists and reaffirming Segal's unique ability to craft emotionally resonant narratives that deeply connected with a vast audience.

34. The Honourable Schoolboy

    Released in 1977 by John le Carré, Knopf

    The Honourable Schoolboy burst onto the literary scene in 1977, immediately captivating readers with its intricate Cold War espionage narrative. As the highly anticipated follow-up to the acclaimed 'Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy', it quickly ascended bestseller lists, becoming the #4 Publishers Weekly Bestseller of the year. Le Carré’s masterful storytelling, combined with a timely exploration of global political machinations in post-Vietnam Asia, struck a profound chord with a public grappling with questions of loyalty, betrayal, and the moral ambiguities of intelligence work. Its arrival was a major cultural event, solidifying Le Carré's reputation as the preeminent chronicler of the spy world.

35. The Thorn Birds

    Released in 1977 by Colleen McCullough, Harper & Row

    1977 saw the literary world captivated by Colleen McCullough's "The Thorn Birds." This epic novel didn't just hit shelves; it exploded onto the scene, quickly becoming a cultural phenomenon that dominated bestseller lists. Its sweeping narrative of forbidden love, family drama, and the harsh beauty of the Australian outback resonated deeply with millions. The book's release was more than just a publishing event; it marked the arrival of a story so emotionally charged and universally appealing that it solidified its place in readers' hearts, sparking conversations and capturing imaginations across the globe and setting new benchmarks for commercial success.