1977

Album: 1977 Revisited (1977)
Play Video

Songfacts®:

  • On December 1, 1976, the Sex Pistols appeared on the Today show, a local news programme for London, as a last minute substitute for Queen. Host Bill Grundy, a classical music fan, had nothing but contempt for the band and their entourage, and after goading them, they swore repeatedly including the dreaded F word. Punk had arrived.

    Co-written by lead guitarist Mick Jones and rhythm guitarist Joe Strummer, "1977" announced this new era: no Elvis, Beatles or Rolling Stones here. The latter would come true literally, because Elvis Presley died August 16 the same year. This short, snappy song was the B-side of "White Riot" but did not appear on the band's eponymous debut album which was released April 8. >>
    Suggestion credit:
    Alexander Baron - London, England

Comments: 2

  • Philip Golden from Los AngelesTopper Headon very clearly did not contribute to writing this song, as he wasn't in the band yet.
  • Jeff from London, United KingdomGreat lyric, especially the end "In 1984."
see more comments

Editor's Picks

Philip Cody

Philip CodySongwriter Interviews

A talented lyricist, Philip helped revive Neil Sedaka's career with the words to "Laughter In The Rain" and "Bad Blood."

Mick Jones of Foreigner

Mick Jones of ForeignerSongwriter Interviews

Foreigner's songwriter/guitarist tells the stories behind the songs "Juke Box Hero," "I Want To Know What Love Is," and many more.

TV Theme Songs

TV Theme SongsFact or Fiction

Was a Beatles song a TV theme? And who came up with those Fresh Prince and Sopranos songs?

Trucking Songs That Were #1 Hits

Trucking Songs That Were #1 HitsSong Writing

The stories behind the biggest hit songs about trucking.

Dave Mason

Dave MasonSongwriter Interviews

Dave reveals the inspiration for "Feelin' Alright" and explains how the first song he ever wrote became the biggest hit for his band Traffic.

Bryan Adams

Bryan AdamsSongwriter Interviews

What's the deal with "Summer of '69"? Bryan explains what the song is really about, and shares more of his songwriting insights.