Hits 97 is a compilation album released in 1996. As a part of the Hits compilation series, it contains UK hit singles from mid-to-late 1996.[1] The album had a rivalry with Now 35 released later in the month - due to the longstanding rivalry between the Now and Hits compilation series. Some royalties from Hits 97 went to three different children's charities due to the inclusion of the final track, "Knockin' on Heaven's Door" by Dunblane. Hits 97 was one of the only Hits albums to feature a non-single, "D'Yer Wanna Be a Spaceman?" by Oasis. (see Notes section)
Oasis' song "D'Yer Wanna Be a Spaceman?" is unusually featured, as it was not a 1996 single but in fact a B-side to the single Shakermaker, which was released in 1994. Its inclusion is perhaps due to Oasis' vast popularity at the time of release. The rival Now! series had also included earlier Oasis songs on the first two of their three 1996 releases.
