On this day today:
1943 - Joni Mitchell was born Roberta Joan Anderson in Fort Macleod, Alberta, Canada. A true pioneer in songwriting, Mitchell's introspective lyrics and genre-blending style have made her one of the most influential artists of her generation. From folk to jazz to rock, she broke musical boundaries with albums like Blue, Court and Spark, and Hejira. Her work has inspired countless musicians, leaving an indelible mark on music history with her poetic storytelling and unique sound.
1969 - Pink Floyd took a bold step into experimental territory with the release of their third album, Ummagumma, on November 7, 1969, in the UK. This double album showcased their psychedelic and avant-garde edge, with live performances on one disc and a collection of individual contributions from each member on the other. Tracks like "Astronomy Domine" and "Careful With That Axe, Eugene" capture the band’s darker, more atmospheric side, setting the stage for the influential soundscapes they would explore in future albums. Ummagumma remains a cult favorite for fans of the band’s early, exploratory years.
1972 - Bette Midler burst onto the music scene with the release of her debut album, The Divine Miss M. Known for her theatrical flair and powerful voice, Midler’s album featured a mix of pop, jazz, and cabaret tunes, including hits like "Do You Want to Dance" and "Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy". The album was an instant success, earning her a Grammy nomination for Album of the Year and securing the Best New Artist award—a major achievement that cemented her as a versatile and enduring talent in the entertainment industry.
1979 - The Rose, starring Bette Midler, premiered in theaters. In this film, Midler plays a rock singer who struggles with fame, embodying a character reminiscent of Janis Joplin—though not officially based on the singer due to rights issues. Despite the fictionalization, Midler’s intense performance captures the spirit of Joplin’s larger-than-life personality and tragic story. Her portrayal of the self-destructive star earned her critical acclaim and an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress, establishing Midler as a powerhouse not only in music but also on the big screen.
1981 - Hall & Oates’ catchy pop tune "Private Eyes" topped the charts, boosted by a detective-themed video that resonated with early MTV viewers. The song’s infectious clapping rhythm and memorable chorus made it a radio favorite, while the video—complete with trench coats, dark sunglasses, and playful mystery vibes—helped cement Hall & Oates as a defining act of the ‘80s. MTV, which had launched only three months earlier, played a huge role in amplifying the song's popularity, showing how visuals would soon become as crucial to hits as the music itself.
1987 - Tiffany, just 16 years old, topped the US charts with her debut single "I Think We’re Alone Now." Originally recorded by Tommy James & the Shondells in 1967, Tiffany’s pop cover gave the song new life for the MTV generation, fueled by her extensive mall tour performances across America.
1996 - Born Ella Marija Lani Yelich-O'Connor in Auckland, New Zealand, Lorde entered the music world early, signing her first record deal at just 13. By 16, she was rewriting pop music norms with "Royals," a minimalist anthem that topped the charts worldwide, making her the youngest solo artist to score a US #1 in over 25 years. Lorde's unique voice and perspective on fame and modern culture set her apart from the start, heralding a new era of introspective pop that’s since influenced countless artists.
1997 - Released alongside the record-smashing film Titanic, the soundtrack featuring Celine Dion's unforgettable "My Heart Will Go On" became an unstoppable phenomenon in its own right. While most of the album is orchestral, James Horner’s sweeping score captured the film's epic romance and tragedy, with Dion's soaring ballad giving it an emotional anchor. The soundtrack topped the charts globally, selling over 10 million copies and cementing itself as one of the best-selling film soundtracks of all time, a testament to both the movie's impact and the haunting power of its music.
1998 - Swedish-American musician Eagle-Eye Cherry brought his breakthrough hit "Save Tonight" to Saturday Night Live. The single, from his debut album Desireless, had quickly climbed charts worldwide, becoming an anthem with its infectious chorus and heartfelt lyrics about cherishing the present moment.
1999 - In a chart battle of former Spice Girls, Geri Halliwell secured the No.1 spot on the UK singles chart with her hit "Lift Me Up," surpassing Emma Bunton's single, which debuted at No.2. Released in 2001, Geri's track marked her first solo single after leaving the Spice Girls, and its success showcased her continued popularity as a solo artist.
2002 - Guns N' Roses fans were left disappointed, when the band’s highly anticipated North American tour, their first since 1993, hit a major roadblock on opening night in Vancouver. Frontman Axl Rose, notorious for his erratic behavior, was a no-show, leaving fans frustrated and resulting in a riot outside the venue. The tour continued to face challenges and was ultimately canceled a month later. This rocky attempt at a comeback tour highlighted the band’s ongoing struggles, but also underscored the enduring loyalty of fans eager to see the rock legends return to the stage.
2005 - After a twelve-year hiatus, Kate Bush made a remarkable return, with the release of Aerial. Her first album since The Red Shoes in 1993, Aerial showcased Bush’s artistic evolution and still-commanding presence in the music world. The double album featured "King Of The Mountain," an Elvis-inspired single that gave fans a taste of her signature mystique and storytelling prowess. With intricate, layered arrangements and a range of lyrical themes, Aerial reminded listeners of Bush’s unique voice and visionary talent, firmly reestablishing her as a force in the music scene.
2011 - At just 23 years old, Adele underwent laser surgery on her vocal cords, at a hospital in Boston. The operation was necessary after persistent throat issues forced the singer to cancel multiple tour dates that year. Known for her powerhouse vocals, Adele's career momentarily paused to ensure a full recovery. The surgery ultimately proved successful, allowing her to return to the stage stronger than ever, with her voice preserved.
2015 - Pentatonix made history, by becoming the first a cappella group to score a #1 album on the Billboard 200 with their self-titled release. The album showcased their signature style of reimagining pop hits with nothing but vocal power and clever arrangements. Their achievement marked a rare breakthrough in mainstream music for an a cappella act, drawing new fans to the genre and solidifying Pentatonix's reputation as the modern face of vocal harmony.
2016 - Leonard Cohen, revered singer-songwriter and poet, passed away at 82, leaving a monumental legacy in music and beyond. Known for his haunting voice and timeless lyrics, Cohen balanced a life between the spiritual and the artistic. Ordained as a Rinzai Buddhist monk, he continued his music career with dedication, receiving accolades such as inductions into the Canadian Music, Canadian Folk Music, Canadian Songwriters, Songwriter, and Rock and Roll Halls of Fame. From "Hallelujah" to "Suzanne," his songs remain anthems of introspection and beauty, marking Cohen as a true legend in both Canadian and global music history.
2020 - The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame celebrated its 2020 inductees with a virtual ceremony for the first time due to the coronavirus pandemic, with no live performances or in-person fanfare. Honorees included a wide range of influential acts: The Doobie Brothers, Nine Inch Nails, Depeche Mode, Whitney Houston, The Notorious B.I.G., and T. Rex.
