Singer, actor, black activist Paul Robeson dies at the age of 78. His 11 films included Body And Soul, Jericho and Proud Valley.
Alex Hayley's book Roots is published and becomes one of the most important books of all time in black history. It receives many awards including the National Book Award and a special Pulitzer Prize for making an important contribution to the literature of slavery.
After more than ten peaceful years of Notting Hill Carnival, all hell breaks loose after police tried to arrest a pickpocket. More than 100 police officers had to be taken to hospital and about 60 carnival-goers also needed medical treatment after the clashes, which led to the arrest of at least 66 people.
More riots, this time in South Africa, stemming from black people protesting over Afrikaans being taught as the main language. It was later reported that 432 people died in the riots. It has a lasting impact and arguably played a significant role in sowing the seeds of democracy in South Africa.
Also in Africa, the Rhodesian government agrees to introduce black majority rule to the country within two years (Rhodesia was to become Zimbabwe).
In February Florence Ballard of The Supremes dies.
Stevie Wonder announced that he had signed a contract in excess of $13 million with Motown Records. In the same year he released the groundbreaking Songs In The Key Of Life album. It included tracks such as Isn't She Lovely, Sir Duke and Love's In Need Of Love Today.
Afrika Bambaata plays his first gig at Bronx River Community Centre in New York.
British band Aswad is signed to Island Records. The band was among the first homegrown acts to prove that reggae music could successfully take root in Europe. Their debut release, Back to Africa hit the No 1 slot in the UK reggae charts.
Salsoul Records released the first ever 12" single to the public, called Ten Percent by Double Exposure. Before this 12 inches were only released as DJ promos.
The movie Car Wash and the soundtrack are released and are massive hits. The soundtrack featured three US RnB top ten singles including I Wanna Get Next To You, I'm Going Down and Car Wash.
