May 6 – Bob Kingsley, producer of the syndicated "American Country Countdown," takes over as host. He replaces Don Bowman, who had hosted for the first 4 1/2 years. Kingsley will helm the program for 27 years.
October 7 – "American Top 40" expands from three to four hours. Several new features are added to the program, which is reaching its peak in popularity.