Y
1997

1997 in British Music

OK Computer, Princess Diana's farewell, and the year music grew up fast.

Key Events

  • Radiohead release OK Computer — a landmark album that redefines British rock
  • Elton John's 'Candle in the Wind 1997' becomes the best-selling single of all time
  • The Verve's Urban Hymns and 'Bittersweet Symphony' capture a nation's mood

Dominant Genres

BritpopAlternative RockPopUK Garage

Notable Trends

  • Britpop's hangover: the party's over, introspection takes hold
  • UK garage emerges from London's pirate radio underground
  • The Spice Girls phenomenon peaks, then cracks begin to show

Key Artists of 1997

199619971998