Remembering the Year 1979: Detroit History, Music, Pop Culture and More
(Photo by Kevin Winter/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 special events and milestones in Detroit and around the world in the year 1979!
-
-
In April of 1979, under head coach Dick Vitale, the Pistons compiled a 30–52 record and finished fourth in the NBA’s Central Division.
-
In April of 1979, under head coach Bobby Kromm, the Red Wings compiled a 23–41–16 record and finished fifth in the National Hockey League’s Norris Division.
-
In September of 1979, under managers Les Moss, Dick Tracewski, and Sparky Anderson, the Tigers compiled an 85–76 record and finished fifth in the American League East.
-
The 1979 Grammy for Record of the Year went to Phil Ramone (producer) and Billy Joel for “Just the Way You Are.”
-
The 1979 Grammy for Album of the Year went to the Saturday Night Fever Soundtrack.
-
Some of the most popular toys from 1979 included Speak and Spell, the Farrah Fawcett Glamour Center, Pachinko Pinball Machine and Wooden Building Blocks.
-
Famous birthdays from 1979 include Kate Hudson on April 9, Heath Ledger on April 4 and Jennifer Love Hewitt on Feb. 21.
-
“All My Children,” “Three’s Company” and “Diff’rent Strokes” were some popular TV programs in 1979.
-
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.
Sign Up For The WRIF Everything That Rocks Newsletter
Get everything that rocks sent right to your inbox. We're talking rock news, concert updates, stories from all around metro Detroit, plus exclusive contests, games and more.
By clicking "Subscribe" I agree to the website's terms of Service and Privacy Policy. I understand I can unsubscribe at any time.