On this day today:
1947 - Badfinger frontman Pete Ham is born in Swansea, Wales.
1951 - Ace Frehley of Kiss is born Paul Frehley in the Bronx, New York.
1968 - Simon and Garfunkel release "Mrs. Robinson."
1969 - Pink Floyd and their fans as the band performed at Mothers Club in Erdington, Birmingham, England. This gig would go down in history, not only for its mesmerizing music but also for its lasting impact on the band's discography. Radio 1 DJ John Peel's review of the concert captured the otherworldly essence of Pink Floyd's performance, describing it as "sounding like dying galaxies lost in sheer corridors of time and space." His poetic portrayal hinted at the transcendent nature of the band's music, which often ventured into realms beyond conventional rock.
1973 - The Cream compilation Heavy Cream is released in the US.
1979 - Stevie Wonder, a musical icon in his own right, paying tribute to another legend, Duke Ellington, must have been a truly memorable experience for everyone in attendance. "Sir Duke" is such a fitting homage, and combining it with Ellington's "C-Jam Blues" would have been a delightful blend of their musical styles.
1984 - Patrick Stump, lead singer of Fall Out Boy, is born Patrick Martin Stumph in Evanston, Illinois.
1987 - U2 make the cover of Time magazine with the headline "Rock's Hottest Ticket."
1988 - Lizzo is born Melissa Jefferson in Detroit, Michigan.
1994 - The Fillmore Auditorium in San Francisco roars back to life with explosive performances by The Smashing Pumpkins and the soulful resonance of American Music Club. It's a night where the echoes of rock 'n' roll's past mingle with the promise of its future, reminding us all why this legendary venue holds a special place in the heart of the city.
1996 - Oasis's two-night performance at Manchester's Maine Road football ground in 1996 stands as a testament to the band's deep connection with their fans and their meteoric rise to fame. The decision to play at such a massive venue was a bold move, but one that perfectly encapsulated the band's ambition and the fervor of their fanbase. With all 80,000 tickets selling out in a matter of hours, it's clear that Oasis's music struck a chord with people from all walks of life. The concerts were not just a showcase of their hits but also a celebration of their journey from local heroes to international icons.
1999 - R.E.M. appear on a scripted series for the first time when they guest on Party of Five.
1999 - UK band The Verve announced that they had split. They scored the 1997 UK No.1 single 'The Drugs Don't Work' and their 1997 UK No.1 album 'Urban Hymns' spent over 100 weeks on the UK chart.
1999 - The release of "Songs From Dawson's Creek" must have been a nostalgic treat for fans of the show. With its mix of emotional ballads and catchy pop tunes, the soundtrack likely captured the essence of the series, evoking memories of love, friendship, and coming-of-age moments. Peaking at #7 on the US albums chart is no small feat and speaks to the resonance of the music beyond the show itself. It's a testament to the power of music to transport us back to cherished moments in our lives.
2002 - The absence of British acts from the US Hot 100 in 2002 marks a significant shift in the transatlantic music scene. For decades, British artists had made their mark on American charts, but this year saw a departure from that trend. Acts like Blur, Oasis, and Robbie Williams, who had previously found success in the US, faced rejection as American audiences seemed to gravitate towards other sounds and styles. This could reflect changing tastes or perhaps a saturation of the market with British music.
2003 - Iggy Pop reunites with The Stooges for the first time in 30 years to close out the Coachella festival. In 2010, the Stooges enter the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
2003 - Madonna went to No.1 on the UK album chart with 'American Life', the singers eighth No.1 album. Also a US No.1 album.
2008 - Prince makes the crowd go crazy by covering Radiohead during an epic headlining set after being a last-minute addition to the Coachella Festival.
2009 - It's remarkable how a gesture like holding a free concert can help mend relationships between artists and their fans. Aerosmith's decision to organize a new show in Hawaii and cover all expenses serves as a testament to their commitment to making things right with their audience. The class action case filed by fans highlights the significant impact that concert cancellations can have, not just financially but also emotionally. By offering free tickets to everyone who purchased tickets to the original concert, Aerosmith acknowledges the disappointment and inconvenience experienced by their loyal fanbase.
2010 - The news of music sales growth in the UK in 2010 came as a welcome relief to the music industry, marking the first increase in six years. According to the British Phonographic Institute (BPI), revenue saw a modest uptick of 1.4%, reaching a total income of £928.8 million for 2009.
2012 - Bob Dylan receives the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest honor awarded to a United States civilian citizen, from US President Barack Obama.
2016 - Beyonce's Formation tour marks a monumental moment in her career, as she takes to the stage for her first solo stadium tour. Beginning in Miami, the tour is a spectacle of music, dance, and visual artistry, captivating audiences from start to finish.
2023 - Metallica's M72 Tour is a thrilling testament to their enduring legacy and dedication to their fans. Launching in Amsterdam, the tour sets the stage for an unforgettable experience, with each weekend stop featuring not just one, but two shows, each with a unique setlist and opening acts.
2023 - It's fascinating how iconic pieces of music history can fetch such high prices at auction. Freddie Mercury's leather shorts, with their undeniable connection to his electrifying stage presence, hold immense value for fans and collectors alike. Their sale for £18,000 is a testament to the enduring legacy of Queen and the lasting impact of Mercury's flamboyant style. Referenced in Queen's fan club secretary Jacky Gunn's biography, the shorts serve as a tangible link to the band's historic performances, including their legendary gig in Birmingham in 1980. Their sale to an overseas bidder underscores the global reach of Queen's music and the universal appeal of Mercury's charisma and talent.
