The Roaring Silence

1976 and 1977 were pivotal years for Manfred Mann's Earth Band. Midway through a strong run of five albums, the band navigated lineup changes while growing a remarkable global audience for its distinctive mix of progressive rock, jazz, and blues.

Though Manfred Mann already knew chart success from earlier in his career, The Roaring Silence took Manfred Mann's Earth Band to a new level, reaching the top of the charts in 1977.

Bruce Springsteen's Blinded by the Light had the makings of a hit, but its rise to No. 1 was still a surprise, becoming the first chart-topper for both the band and Springsteen. With Chris Thompson's commanding vocals and Mann's unmistakable keyboards, it became a modern classic rock anthem that still gets played everywhere.