From the delightfully wacky minds of Sid and Marty Krofft, creators of such shows as H.R. Pufnstuf and Sigmund and the Sea Monsters, came a lighthearted musical-variety show featuring one the earlier boy bands, those lovable Scottish lads, The Bay City Rollers.

After choosing an “American sounding name” by throwing a dartboard and hitting the city of Bay City, Michigan (and supposedly, the first toss hit Arkansas, which was quickly nixed), they scored a number of chart-topping hits in Britain before coming across the pond, following a deal with Arista records. They quickly scored a number-one hit, “Saturday Night” in 1976. 

Two years later, they would become part of the Krofft Superstar Hour, which would soon be renamed The Bay City Rollers Show. Besides hosting and offering up some music, they also performed in various comedy sketches, alongside some well-known characters from previous Krofft shows. Witchie Poo from H.R. Pufnstuf appeared regularly, as did Dr. Shrinker and Hugo from the Krofft Supershow, and a character called Hoo Doo from Lidsville, although actor Paul Gale would take over for the original Charles Nelson Reilly.

With somewhat abysmal ratings, the producers tried cutting the show down to a half-hour, but that only lasted for two months before the show was cancelled. The original line-up of The Bay City Rollers pretty much disbanded after that, although certain members have done a number of revival shows over the years, usually with no more than one or two original Rollers among them. They are still fondly remembered by their lingering and loyal fans, however, both for the quirky television show and for a handful of hits, such as “Rock and Roll Love Letter.” Bay City Rollers, we hardly knew thee but your place in pop culture is assured.