Manilow's breakthrough in Britain came with the release of "Even Now", the first of many top-20 albums on that side of the Atlantic, which contained four singles that became major hits in the US. This was quickly followed by "Manilow Magic The Best Of Barry Manilow", also known as "Greatest Hits". In the late 1970s and early 1980s, ABC aired four variety television specials starring Manilow, who served as an executive producer. "The Barry Manilow Special" with Penny Marshall as his guest premiered on March 2, 1977, to an audience of 37 million. The special was nominated for four Emmys and won in the category of "Outstanding Comedy-Variety or Music Special." "The Second Barry Manilow Special" in 1978, with Ray Charles as his guest, was also nominated for four Emmys.