The New Seekers' "I'd Like to Teach the World to Sing (In Perfect Harmony) Single (1971)

The New Seekers' "I'd Like to Teach the World to Sing (In Perfect Harmony)" retains its number one position on the NME Top 30 chart as published in New Musical Express, January 22, 1972.

The New Seekers released "I'd Like to Teach the World to Sing (In Perfect Harmony)" in November 1971 as a single, later included on their album We'd Like to Teach the World to Sing (1972) on Polydor Records (UK) and Elektra Records (US). Written by Roger Cook, Roger Greenaway, Bill Backer, and Billy Davis, the song originated as a Coca-Cola jingle before being reworked with new lyrics by the British-Australian pop group. Produced by David Mackay at Morgan Studios in London, it features lush harmonies, acoustic guitars, and an upbeat, idealistic vibe, capturing a hopeful, unity-driven message.

The single reached #1 on the UK Singles Chart for four weeks, #7 on the US Billboard Hot 100, and topped charts in Ireland and New Zealand. It sold over a million copies globally, boosted by its iconic Coca-Cola ad campaign. The New Seekers’ version became a cultural touchstone, embodying early ‘70s optimism.

Cat Stevens released Teaser and the Firecat in October 1971, his fifth studio album, on Island Records (UK) and A&M Records (US). Inspired by a children's book concept Stevens illustrated himself, the album explores themes of spirituality, peace, and self-discovery through folk-rock introspection. Recorded at Morgan Studios in London with producer Paul Samwell-Smith, it features Stevens’ acoustic guitar, piano, and warm vocals, backed by subtle strings and percussion. Standout tracks include “Morning Has Broken” (a reimagined Gaelic hymn), “Peace Train” (an optimistic anthem), “Moonshadow,” and “The Wind,” blending melodic hooks with philosophical lyrics.

The album topped the US Billboard 200 for three weeks, reached #3 on the UK Albums Chart, and sold over 3.5 million copies worldwide by 2025. It spawned three hit singles: “Peace Train” (#1 US, #7 UK), “Morning Has Broken” (#6 US, #4 UK), and “Moonshadow” (#30 US). Critically acclaimed for its accessibility and charm, it marked Stevens’ commercial peak before his conversion to Islam.