The band began as a politically charged, sometimes experimental rock band and later moved to a softer sound, becoming famous for producing a number of hit ballads. They had a steady stream of hits throughout the 1970s and 1980s. Second only to the Beach Boys, Chicago, in terms of singles and albums, is one of the longest running and most successful U.S. pop/rock and roll groups. According to Billboard, Chicago was the leading U.S. singles charting group during the 1970s. In 1973 the group's manager, produced and directed Electra Glide in Blue, a movie about an Arizona motorcycle policeman. The movie starred Robert Blake, and featured Cetera, Kath, Loughnane, and Parazaider in supporting roles. The group also appeared prominently on the movie's soundtrack. 1978 was a tragic and transitional year for Chicago. The year began with an acrimonious split with long-time manager James William Guercio. Then, in late January, guitarist/singer/songwriter Terry Kath died of an accidental self-inflicted gunshot wound (reportedly incurred while cleaning his gun), delivering a devastating blow to the band. Another version describes Kath's drunken last words to the band: "Don't worry, guys. It isn't even loaded. See?".