12-28-1976 – News Journal (Mansfield, OH) – Gold Record

Gold Record Given To Queen Before Album Goes on Sale

Queen was presented with a gold record in Britain for “A Day at the Races” by its record company, Elektra, before anyone outside the company had even heard the album. Perhaps, they were inspired by the following telegram sent to the band:

“… Though my stereo listening these days is pretty much restricted to hearing aids in both ears. I recall a number of the young people who look after my house playing your last album — which I believe was titled -A Night At the Opera.” That too was the name of a Marx Brothers movie.

“Though I have long since placed Billboard, Cashbox and Record World well below Youth’s Companion on my list of reading matter. I know that you are very successful recording artists. Could it. by any chance, be your choice of album titles? If so. you’re in for many productive years, because the Marx Brothers made 13 turkeys all together, and i made five alone, and then, of course, there was my quiz show. You Bet Your Life, and my seven books . . . and boy. this could go on forever . . .Hoping this finds you. Dr. Hugh Z. Hackenbush (or as 4 am sometimes known.Groucho Marx)

“A Day At the Races” will, incidentally, list for S7.99, a dollar more than the present industry standard — a foreboding omen of across-the-board increases next year.