Remembering the Year 1976: Detroit History, Music, Pop Culture and More
(Photo by Chris Jackson/Getty Images)
Story by Mark Wilson and Anne Erickson
WRIF first started broadcasting true rock ‘n’ roll to the Motor City on On Feb. 14, 1971, and we’ve never looked back!
It’s been an honor to rock with you for the past 50 years, and we look forward to the next 50.
Let’s look back on these important events and happenings in Detroit and around the world in the year 1976!
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In February of 1976, Detroit speed-skater Sheila Young won gold, silver and bronze medals at the 1976 Winter Olympics in Innsbruck, Austria.
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In April of 1976, the Pistons compiled a 34–46 record and finished second in the NBA’s Midwest Division.
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In April of 1976, the Red Wings compiled a 26–44–10 record and finished fourth in the National Hockey League’s Norris Division.
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In October of 1976, the Tigers compiled a 74–87 record and finished fifth in the American League East.
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By October of 1976, Detroit Tigers Rookie Pitcher Mark Fidrych won 19 games, as well as played starting pitcher for the American League in the All-Star Game, led the American League with a 2.34 earned run average and was named American League Rookie of the Year.
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The 1976 Grammy for Record of the Year went to “Love Will Keep Us Together,” Captain & Tennille (artist) & Daryl Dragon (producer).
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The 1976 Grammy for Album of the Year went to “Still Crazy After All These Years,” Paul Simon (artist) and Phil Ramone & Paul Simon (producers).
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Some of the most popular toys from 1976 included Barbie Dolls, the Atari 400 Home Computer System, the Easy Bake Oven and Pocket Transistor Radios.
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Famous birthdays from 1976 include Colin Farrell on May 31, Reese Witherspoon on March 22, Jennifer Capriati on March 29 and Melissa Joan Hart on April 18.
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“The Jeffersons,” “All in the Family” and “The Carol Burnett Show” were some popular TV programs in 1976.
Anne Erickson started her radio career shortly after graduating from Michigan State University and has worked on-air in Detroit, Flint, Toledo, Lansing and beyond. As someone who absolutely loves rock, metal and alt music, she instantly fell in love with radio and hasn’t looked back. When she’s not working, Anne makes her own music with her band, Upon Wings, and she also loves cheering on her favorite Detroit and Michigan sports teams, especially Lions and MSU football. Anne is also an award-winning journalist, and her byline has run in a variety of national publications. You can also hear her weekends on WRIF.
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