1973

What Was Happening in 1973

Oil crisis, three-day week, and the year Britain joined Europe.

Born in

Number 1 Songs in 1973 — UK and US Charts

UK #1

"Blockbuster!"

Sweet

This glam rock stomper topped the UK charts for five weeks at the start of 1973, with its driving beat and catchy chorus making it one of the defining hits of the era.

US #1

"Tie a Yellow Ribbon Round the Ole Oak Tree"

Tony Orlando and Dawn

This sentimental pop song spent four weeks at number one and became the best-selling US single of 1973, later adopted as a symbol for returning soldiers and hostages.

Biggest Films of 1973 — Box Office Hits

The Exorcist

Box Office: $193 million

William Friedkin's horror masterpiece about a possessed girl terrified audiences worldwide, caused walkouts and fainting in cinemas, and became the highest-grossing film of 1973.

Fashion and Style of 1973

Fashion, clothing and visual culture from the era

Architecture and Buildings of 1973

Buildings completed and structures opened in 1973

More About 1973

What Was Happening — A journey through the years