On this day today:
1950 - Tom Petty was born in Gainesville, Florida. He gained fame as the lead singer and songwriter for Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, known for classic hits like "American Girl." Petty was also a member of the supergroup Traveling Wilburys, contributing to their track "Last Night." As a solo artist, he achieved significant success with songs like "I Won't Back Down," showcasing his distinct voice and knack for crafting timeless rock anthems. Throughout his career, Petty became an influential figure in American rock music, leaving behind a lasting legacy.
1960 - Roy Orbison achieved his first UK No.1 single with "Only The Lonely," marking the beginning of his impressive career with 33 hits. Originally, the song was offered to both The Everly Brothers and Elvis Presley, but after being turned down, Orbison decided to record it himself.
1971 - Snoop Dogg, born Calvin Cordozar Broadus Jr. in Long Beach, California, is a renowned American rapper, songwriter, and actor. He gained fame in the early 1990s with his debut album, "Doggystyle," which featured hits like "What's My Name" and "Gin and Juice." Snoop's distinctive laid-back style and smooth flow made him a prominent figure in hip-hop. Over the years, he has released numerous albums, with notable tracks like "Drop It Like It's Hot" and collaborated with various artists across genres. Beyond music, Snoop has ventured into acting and business, solidifying his status as a cultural icon.
1977 - A tragic event unfolded when a plane chartered by Lynyrd Skynyrd ran out of fuel and crashed in a wooded area near Gillsburg, Mississippi. The crash claimed the lives of six people, including band members Ronnie Van Zant, Steve Gaines, and Cassie Gaines (Steve's sister), along with the band's road manager, Dean Kilpatrick, and both pilots. Several other passengers, including members of the band and their crew, sustained serious injuries. The crash occurred just days after the release of their fifth studio album, Street Survivors, which eerily featured cover art depicting the band surrounded by flames. The event marked a devastating chapter in rock history, forever altering the trajectory of the band. Despite the tragedy, Lynyrd Skynyrd's music has endured, and they remain one of the most iconic Southern rock bands.
1980 - Geffen Records made its debut in the music industry by releasing its first album, Donna Summer's "The Wanderer". This album marked a significant shift in Summer's musical direction as she transitioned from her signature disco sound to a more rock and new wave-influenced style. It was also a pivotal moment in her career, being her first release after leaving Casablanca Records. "The Wanderer" featured the title track as its lead single, which became a Top 10 hit on the Billboard Hot 100. Despite the departure from disco, the album demonstrated Donna Summer's versatility as an artist and highlighted her ability to adapt to the changing musical landscape of the 1980s.
1984 - Wham! began a three-week run at No.1 on the UK singles chart with "Freedom," marking their second chart-topping hit in the UK. The energetic pop anthem became a signature track for the duo. Interestingly, the song was also used in a Japanese commercial for Maxell audio cassettes, where the lyrics were slightly altered to fit the advertisement.
2023 - Polydor Records released "Hackney Diamonds," the 24th studio album by the legendary Rolling Stones (26th in the US). This album marks their first collection of original music since their 2005 release, "A Bigger Bang." "Hackney Diamonds" showcases the Rolling Stones’ ability to stay relevant while embracing a modern sound, with high-profile collaborations featuring Lady Gaga, Stevie Wonder, and Paul McCartney. These guest appearances add unique flavors to the Stones' timeless rock formula. The album also pays homage to their enduring legacy, combining elements of their classic style with fresh innovations, making it a significant entry in their storied discography.
