Help Is On Its Way: Little River Band’s 1977 Smooth Rock Triumph

In 1977, Little River Band released Help Is On Its Way, a soft rock hit that topped Australia’s charts for one week. Released on EMI, it charted for 20 weeks, landing at No. 20 for the year. Written by Glenn Shorrock, it was the lead single from Diamantina Cocktail, their third album, and their only No. 1 in Australia. It pushed Julie Covington aside and bowed to Dr. Hook, cementing LRB’s place in Aussie rock. Let’s explore its origin, chart run, and why it still resonates.

Melbourne’s Soft Rock Kings
Little River Band formed in Melbourne in ’75, a supergroup with Glenn Shorrock, Beeb Birtles, Graeham Goble, and Derek Pellicci—veterans of bands like Mississippi and The Twilights. Shorrock penned Help Is On Its Way, drawing from a personal mantra about resilience. He later shared, “It’s me telling myself to keep going—help’s coming.” Recorded in Melbourne with producer John Boylan (Linda Ronstadt), it was the lead track for Diamantina Cocktail. Shorrock’s warm vocals and LRB’s slick harmonies made it a radio-ready hit, balancing their growing US fame with Aussie roots.

Chart Success
Charting on April 25th, ’77, as catalogue number EMI 11405, it hit No. 1 on June 27th, overtaking Don’t Cry For Me Argentina. It held for one week—20 weeks total—before Walk Right In arrived. It ended ’77 at No. 20, a strong showing. The B-side, The Inner Light, complemented its mellow vibe. LRB’s first Australian No. 1, it also reached No. 14 on the US Billboard Hot 100, boosted by EMI’s push and radio love. Boylan’s production gave it a polished edge, perfect for the era.

The ’77 Vibe
Australia in ’77 was a musical melting pot—punk, disco, and soft rock all had their fans. Help Is On Its Way leaned into the smooth, Countdown-friendly sound, less raw than AC/DC, less flamboyant than Skyhooks. Its optimistic tone and easy melody made it a go-to for road trips and sunny afternoons, capturing a feel-good moment.Why It Lasts
Help Is On Its Way was Little River Band’s Australian peak, even as they conquered the US with Reminiscing. Diamantina Cocktail went gold, and Shorrock’s songwriting shone. It’s a classic hits staple—Triple M and pub bands keep it alive. Play it, and you’re back in ’77, cruising with the windows down. LRB tours on, sans original members—a pity, but this track’s magic endures. Got an LRB memory? Share it below—I’m all ears!