In late 1977, Newton went solo and continued to record for Capitol, although Silver Spur would remain the name of her backup band until 1982. That year, Newton provided backing vocals for Bob Welch's platinum solo debut album on three tracks, including his hit "Ebony Eyes". Later in 1977, "It's a Heartache" became Newton's first solo record and a major hit in Mexico, where it was eventually certified Gold. In 1978, Newton released the song in the United States, and it became the first of her 11 "Hot 100" pop hits. Also in 1978, The Carpenters' version of the Newton/Young-penned song "Sweet, Sweet Smile" reached the Top 10 on both the Country and Adult Contemporary charts, and #44 on the "Billboard" Hot 100 chart.