Les Cook's WAKY Week in Rock History!
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7/2/08
In 1956
Buddy Holly released his first single, "Love Me," backed with "Blue Days, Black Nights."
Elvis Presley recorded "Don't Be Cruel" at the RCA Records’ New York studios. The session marked the first time Elvis used the gospel trio the Jordanaires as his backup group.
In 1958
Elvis Presley's movie "King Creole" opened in theaters across the country.
In 1961
Gladys Knight and the Pips' "Every Beat of My Heart" hit number one on the Billboard R&B chart.
In 1963
Peter, Paul, and Mary were featured in "Look" magazine.
In 1964
The Rolling Stones released the single "It's All Over Now."
Cilla Black recorded the Lennon-McCartney tune "It's For You." Paul played piano for the session.
In 1966
The Capitols' "Cool Jerk" peaked at number seven on the pop singles chart.
The Animals' "Don't Bring Me Down" peaked at number 12 on the pop singles chart.
The Swingin' Medallions' "Double Shot (of My Baby's Love)" peaked at number 17 on the pop singles chart.
Sam the Sham and the Pharaohs' "Little Red Riding Hood" and Tommy Roe's "Sweet Pea" broke into the Top 40.
In 1969
The Jimi Hendrix Experience broke up.
Jerry Lee Lewis performed at the Schaefer Music Festival in New York's Central Park. Pacific Gas & Electric was the opening act.
Thunderclap Newman's "Something in the Air" hit number one on the UK pop singles chart.
In 1973
Brian Eno left Roxy Music.
In 1977
Crosby, Stills, and Nash's "Just A Song Before I Go" broke into the Top 40.
In 1980
Grateful Dead members Bob Weir and Mickey Hart and manager Danny Rifken were picked up for suspicion of inciting a riot at the San Diego Sports Arena. They reportedly tried to interfere in a drug related arrest.
In 1981
Bruce Springsteen played the first shows ever at the 21-thousand-seat Brendan Byrne Meadowlands Arena in New Jersey. The six-concert run sold out in an hour. Springsteen said of the audiences' screams, quote, "When we got onstage, I couldn't hear the band. We felt like the Beatles."
In 1991
Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers released "Into The Great Wide Open."
In 1992
Rolling Stones frontman Mick Jagger became a grandfather when his daughter Jade gave birth to a baby girl.
In 1995
Around 35-hundred Grateful Dead fans rioted outside a Noblesville, Indiana venue, tearing down gates and throwing rocks. Seventeen people were arrested.
In 2002
The album "Party at the Palace," featuring numerous artists including Paul McCartney, Brian Wilson, Ozzy Osbourne, and Tom Jones performing as part of Britain's Queen Elizabeth the Second's Jubilee, was released.
In 2004
David Crosby entered a guilty plea in a New York court to a charge of attempted criminal possession of a weapon. The case related to his arrest three months earlier in which a maid at a Times Square hotel found a gun, knife, and marijuana in luggage he left behind after checking out. Authorities dropped the marijuana possession charge since Crosby pled guilty to the weapons violation.
In 2005
Live 8 took place across the world to promote international aid for developing African nations. Live Aid organizer Bob Geldof was behind the event, which featured concerts in the G-8 nations in conjunction with the world leaders' annual summit. Paul McCartney, Elton John, Stevie Wonder, and Pink Floyd were among the numerous stars who participated in the global event. Pink Floyd's performance marked the first time Roger Waters, Rick Wright, David Gilmour, and Nick Mason had performed together in nearly 25 years.
The Peter Gabriel-organized Africa Calling concert, featuring a variety of African performers, was staged in conjunction with Live 8.
In 2006
The Who was the headliner on the second night of the Calling Festival in London. The event served as the launch of the Hard Rock Cafe's 35th anniversary Ambassadors of Rock Tour. The Who offered a webcast of the show, charging 99-cents per download and donating the money to charity.
7/1/08
In 1956
Elvis Presley appeared on "The Steve Allen Show." On the show he wore tails and sang "Hound Dog" to a bassett hound, and was forbidden to dance. Teens protested the next day in front of NBC, saying that they wanted the "real Elvis."
An eleven-year-old Brenda Lee signed a recording contract with Decca Records.
In 1962
Elvis Presley released the single "She's Not You."
In 1963
The Beatles recorded the songs "She Loves You" and "I'll Get You."
In 1964
John Lennon bought a house in Surrey, England. He paid about 31-thousand-dollars for the home.
In 1965
Elvis Presley's single "Crying in the Chapel" hit number one on the pop singles chart.
The Rolling Stones released the album "Out Of Our Heads."
In 1966
Janis Joplin moved into the San Geronimo Valley, California house in which other members of Big Brother & the Holding Company were living.
Bob Dylan released the album "Blonde on Blonde."
In 1967
The Association's "Windy" hit number one on the pop singles chart.
Scott McKenzie's "San Francisco (Be Sure To Wear Flowers In Your Hair)" peaked at number four on the pop singles chart.
The Grass Roots' "Let's Live For Today" peaked at number eight on the pop singles chart.
Procol Harum's "A Whiter Shade Of Pale" and Jefferson Airplane's "White Rabbit" broke into the Top 40.
The Beatles' album "Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band" hit number one on the album chart. It remained at number one for 15 weeks.
In 1968
The Doors released the album "Waiting For The Sun."
In 1969
John Lennon and Yoko Ono were in a car accident in Scotland. Lennon's face was cut, and he needed 17 stitches.
Sun Records owner Sam Phillips sold the label.
New releases included Creedence Clearwater Revival's single "Green River" and The Doors' album "The Soft Parade."
In 1970
Elvis Presley released the single "I've Lost You."
Jimi Hendrix began recording for the first time at his own studio in New York City. It is known as The Electric Ladyland.
In 1972
Neil Diamond's "Song Sung Blue" hit number one on the pop singles chart.
America's "I Need You" peaked at number nine on the pop singles chart.
Gilbert O'Sullivan's "Alone Again (Naturally)" and Looking Glass' "Brandy (You're A Fine Girl)" broke into the Top 40.
In 1973
New album releases included Creedence Clearwater Revival's "More Creedence Gold" and Bob Dylan's "Pat Garrett and Billy the Kid."
In 1974
New album releases included Elvis Presley's "Recorded Live on Stage in Memphis" and Bob Marley and the Wailers' "Burnin'."
In 1975
Ringo Starr and wife Maureen Cox were divorced.
In 1976
Connie Francis won a two-point-five-million-dollar judgement against the motel in which she was raped.
In 1977
Elvis Presley released the album "Moody Blues."
In 1978
Foreigner released the single "Hot Blooded."
In 1979
Former Band frontman Robbie Robertson wrapped up shooting of his first theatrical film, "Carney." Robertson co-starred in the film, produced and co-wrote the script, and contributed to the soundtrack.
In 1981
Steppenwolf bassist Rushton Moreve died. He was 35.
In 1987
The Grateful Dead released the album "In The Dark."
In 1989
Tom Petty's "I Won't Back Down" peaked at number 12 on the pop singles chart.
In 1995
Legendary disc jockey Wolfman Jack died of a heart attack. He was 56.
In 1996
John Denver was ordered by the Colorado Supreme Court to stand trial for an alleged 1994 drunk driving incident.
A restored version of The Beatles' movie "A Hard Day's Night" aired on American Movie Classics.
Neil Young premiered his album "Broken Arrow" on the Internet.
In 2000
Brownsville Station frontman Michael "Cub" Koda died of kidney disease. He was 51.
Mick Jagger's daughter Karis got married.
In 2002
The Who's Pete Townshend and Roger Daltrey performed in Los Angeles, marking their first concert following the death of bassist John Entwistle. Entwistle had died four days earlier in Las Vegas.
In 2001
England's Liverpool Airport was officially renamed the Liverpool John Lennon Airport.
In 2003
The Guess Who performed in Ottawa, Ontario, as part of the national Canada Day celebrations. In addition, reps for the group were in Los Angeles talking up plans to create the movie "American Woman," a semi-biographical musical about the group featuring the band's music.
The John Lennon exhibit "Peace and Love" opened in Birmingham, England.
Elton John was honored with a postage stamp in Malta.
The four-disc Elvis Presley collection "Elvis: Up Close" was released.
In 2004
Glen Campbell began serving time in one of the toughest jails in America -- Maricopa County's infamous "Tent City," out in the Arizona desert. His ten-day stint was part of his sentence in connection with his conviction on extreme DUI charges in November 2003.
Crosby, Stills, and Nash kicked off a North American tour in Prior Lake, Minnesota.
In 2006
Roger Waters was the headliner on the first night of the Calling Festival in London. The event served as the launch of the Hard Rock Cafe's 35th anniversary Ambassadors of Rock Tour.
Mercury Records co-founder Irving Green died of natural causes in Palm Springs, California. He was 90.
In 2007
Elton John, Rod Stewart, and Roxy Music singer Bryan Ferry and were among the performers at the Concert for Diana, a charity fundraiser in honor of the late Princess of Wales.
Former Deep Purple keyboardist Jon Lord presented some of his classical pieces, including the first professional performance of his "From Darkness to Light - A Prayer for the Millennium," at a show at Nidaros Cathedral in Trondheim, Norway.
Santana and Islam were among the performers at a benefit concert in conjunction with the Challenge Future Conference, an international peace conference in Bochum, Germany. The show supported Santana's Milagro Foundation and the Desmond Tutu Peace Center in South Africa.
6/30/08
Today In History
In 1966
The Supremes were in the studio working on the song "You Keep Me Hanging On."
The Beatles played the first of three shows at the Nippon Budokan Hall in Tokyo.
In 1972
The Rolling Stones began a North American tour in Vancouver, British Columbia.
In 1975
Cher and Gregg Allman were married. While they filed for divorce ten days later, the split wasn't finalized until 1979.
The Jackson 5 changed their name to the Jacksons upon leaving Motown Records for Epic. They were forced to modify their moniker because Motown owned the name Jackson 5.
David Bowie began filming on the movie "The Man Who Fell to Earth."
Yes released the album "Yessongs."
In 1976
Police raided Neil Diamond's home looking for drugs, but found less than an ounce of marijuana for their efforts. Diamond in turn gave the officers copies of his album "Beautiful Noise."
In 1977
The first of two Kiss comics from Marvel Comics was released. The red ink used in the printing was said to contain small amounts of blood from each of the band members.
In 1978
Jethro Tull, Robert Palmer, and Flo & Eddie were among the guests on "The Midnight Special."
In 1980
Genesis released the album "Selling England By The Pound."
In 1981
Jerry Lee Lewis was rushed to a Memphis, Tennessee, hospital, where doctors discovered a two-inch hole in his stomach.
In 1983
The Everly Brothers announced that they were working together again and would perform in London. It was their first concert as a duo in ten years.
In 1984
Bruce Springsteen's "Dancing In The Dark" peaked at number two on the pop singles chart.
In 1985
John Lennon's psychedelic, Flower Power-era Rolls Royce was sold for more than two-million-dollars at an auction in New York.
In 1986
Steve Winwood released the album "Back in the High Life."
In 1987
Starship released the album "No Protection."
In 1988
The Beach Boys released the single "Kokomo."
In 1989
Surviving members of The Beatles sued The Dave Clark Five's Dave Clark to block him from selling copies of the TV show "Ready Steady Go!" that featured The Beatles. The two parties eventually settled out of court.
In 1990
Pink Floyd was the headliner at the Knebworth Festival in England.
In 1994
Virgin Records shipped The Rolling Stones album "Voodoo Lounge" early after several radio stations began playing bootleg copies.
In 1999
The "Eric Clapton and Friends" benefit concert for Clapton's rehab center in Antigua took place at New York's Madison Square Garden. Bob Dylan was among the "friends" who participated. The concert raised a million dollars for the center.
In 2001
The 30th anniversary of the deaths of Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin, and Jim Morrison were commemorated at the Gathering of the Vibes festival in Red Hook, New York. Former Doors keyboardist Ray Manzarek performed and served as emcee, while former Band of Gypsys drummer Buddy Miles also took the stage.
In 2004
David Bowie cancelled the remainder of his European tour as he continued his recovery from what at the time was said to be treatment for a pinched nerve in his shoulder. He'd actually had angioplasty surgery several days earlier to open a blocked artery.
In 2006
The Beatles-based Cirque du Soleil show "LOVE" opened at The Mirage in Las Vegas. Former Beatles Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr and Beatle widows Yoko Ono and Olivia Harrison were among those who attended the premiere.
President Bush and Japanese Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi [[ joon-EE-cheer-oh COY-zoo-mee ]] visited Elvis Presley's Graceland.
In 2007
AC/DC's Brian Johnson and Cliff Williams and former Rainbow and Deep Purple singer Joe Lynn Turner launched the Classic Rock Cares tour in Fort Myers, Florida. The trek raised money for the John Entwistle Foundation, which provides instruments and music education for underprivileged children.
Carlos Santana and Yusuf Islam, the singer-songwriter previously known as Cat Stevens, took part in the Challenge Future Conference, an international peace conference in Bochum, Germany.
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Kathy Taylor/cp
6/27/08
Today In History
In 1960
Connie Francis' "Everybody's Somebody's Fool" hit number one on the pop singles chart.
The Everly Brothers' "When Will I Be Loved" and Ray Peterson's "Tell Laura I Love Her" broke into the Top 40.
In 1963
Billy J. Kramer and the Dakotas recorded the Lennon-McCartney tune "I Call Your Name."
In 1964
The Rolling Stones appeared on the British TV show "Juke Box Jury."
Peter & Gordon's "A World Without Love" hit number one on the pop singles chart.
Barbra Streisand's "People" peaked at number five on the pop singles chart.
The Four Seasons' "Rag Doll" broke into the Top 40.
Jan and Dean released the single "Little Old Lady From Pasadena."
In 1965
The Four Tops' "I Can't Help Myself" hit number one on the Billboard R&B chart.
In 1968
Elvis Presley began taping his NBC special "Elvis," which became known as the "Comeback Special."
In 1969
The Denver Pop Festival started. About 50-thousand people turned out to listen to a variety of artists including the Jimi Hendrix Experience, Joe Cocker, Johnny Winter, and Credence Clearwater Revival.
In 1970
Pink Floyd made an appearance at the Bath Festival. It was the first time the group performed "Atom Heart Mother" in concert.
The group "Smile" changed its name to "Queen" and made its first appearance with that name.
Simon & Garfunkel's "El Condor Pasa" hit number one on the UK pop singles chart.
The Temptations' "Ball of Confusion" peaked at number three on the U.S. pop singles chart.
Vanity Fair's "Hitchin' A Ride" peaked at number five on the pop singles chart.
Elvis Presley's "The Wonder of You" peaked at number nine on the pop singles chart.
The Carpenters' "Close To You" broke into the Top 40.
In 1971
Bill Graham's rock auditorium Fillmore East in New York City closed with performances by numerous artists including the Allman Brothers Band and The Beach Boys. The Fillmore West in San Francisco closed three days later.
In 1976
John Lennon received his Green Card from the U.S. government.
In 1978
Kansas was the first rock group to be chosen as UNICEF's Deputy Ambassadors of Goodwill.
In 1986
The Beach Boys released the album "Made in the U.S.A."
In 1989
The Who performed "Tommy" at Radio City Music Hall as a benefit for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and a children's charity.
Tom Jones received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
New album releases included Don Henley's "The End of the Innocence" and Cher's "Heart of Stone."
In 1991
Carlos Santana was arrested when customs agents in Houston found a small amount of marijuana in his luggage. He posted bond and was let go.
In 1993
Fans booed Don Henley during a performance in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, when he dedicated the song "It's Not Easy Being Green" to President Clinton.
In 1995
Neil Young released the album "Mirror Ball."
In 1996
Van Halen frontman Sammy Hagar left the band due to "creative differences." Meanwhile, the group's former singer David Lee Roth began working with Van Halen again, on some tracks for the band's upcoming greatest hits collection.
In 1999
Eric Clapton was quoted by the London "Sunday Times" as saying there was a period in the 1980s in which he was so strung out on drugs and alcohol that he was abusive to then-wife Patti Boyd.
In 2001
Bruce Springsteen won a New Jersey court case awarding him ownership of material he wrote in the early 1970s. Earlier in the year he won a similar case in a London court.
Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers bassist Howie Epstein was arrested in New Mexico when police found him and girlfriend Carlene Carter driving a car that had been reported stolen from a Santa Fe dealership. Police also found drugs in the vehicle.
In 2002
The Who's bassist John Entwistle died from a cocaine-induced heart attack in Las Vegas, Nevada. He was 57.
Michelle Phillips was one of the panelists on the last episode of Bill Maher's irreverent debate show "Politically Incorrect." The program taped on this day, and aired the following day.
In 2003
Cat Stevens settled his case with the Flaming Lips over the group's song "Flight Test," which sounds very similar to Stevens' "Father and Son."
In 2004
Joe Perry was a guest on the Food Network's "Emeril Live," where he promoted his Boneyard Brew line of hot sauce.
In 2006
Kiss' Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons were on hand for the ribbon-cutting ceremony at the first Kiss Coffeehouse, in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina's Celebrity Square.
Chaka Khan received the BET Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2006 BET Awards in Los Angeles.
New releases included the Chuck Berry DVD "Hail! Hail! Rock 'n' Roll."
In 2007
Paul McCartney played a special surprise show in Los Angeles in support of his album "Memory Almost Full."
Elton John was awarded more than 500-thousand-dollars following a lengthy legal battle over the authenticity of four marble statues, which an art dealer in Paris had claimed were made by an 18th century Italian artist.
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Kathy Taylor/cp
6/26/08
Today In History
In 1955
Decca Records announced that Bill Haley and the Comets had sold more than three-million records in 13 months. Among their million sellers were "Rock Around The Clock" and "Shake Rattle & Roll." "Dim, Dim the Lights" and "Mambo Rock" sold about 500-thousand copies each.
In 1961
Gary U.S. Bonds' "Quarter To Three" hit number one on the pop singles chart.
Dee Clark's "Raindrops" peaked at number two on the pop singles chart.
The Marcels were a guest on "American Bandstand." The group was promoting the single "Blue Moon."
In 1963
John Lennon and Paul McCartney wrote "She Loves You" while in a hotel room in Newcastle-upon-Tyne.
In 1964
The Beatles released the album "A Hard Day's Night."
The Rolling Stones released the single "It's All Over Now" backed with "Good Times, Bad Times."
In 1965
The Byrds' cover of Bob Dylan's "Mr. Tambourine Man" hit number one on the pop singles chart.
The Strange Brothers' "I Want Candy" broke into the Billboard Hot 100.
In 1971
Jerry Reed's "When You're Hot, You're Hot" peaked at number nine on the pop singles chart.
Wilson Pickett's "Don't Knock My Love, Part 1" peaked at number 13 on the pop singles chart.
Tommy James and the Shondells' "Draggin' The Line" and John Denver's "Take Me Home, Country Roads" broke into the Top 40.
In 1973
Marsha Hunt named Mick Jagger in a paternity suit in London. Hunt claimed the Rolling Stone was the father of her then-two-year-old daughter. A blood test proved otherwise and the lawsuit against Jagger was dismissed.
In 1975
Sonny and Cher's divorce became final. They had been married for eleven years.
In 1976
Roxy Music announced the band was breaking up.
The Doobie Brothers' "Takin' It To The Streets" peaked at number 13 on the pop singles chart.
Marvin Gaye's "I Want You" peaked at number 15 on the pop singles chart.
In 1977
Elvis Presley made his last concert appearance, at the Market Square Arena in Indianapolis, Indiana. His last song was "Can't Help Falling In Love."
New releases included the Bee Gees' single "How Can You Mend A Broken Heart" and Peter Frampton's album "I'm In You."
In 1979
Elvis Presley's father, Vernon Presley, died from a heart attack in Tupelo, Mississippi. He was 63.
In 1980
The Rolling Stones held a press party at New York's Danceteria to celebrate the release of the album "Emotional Rescue."
In 1982
Roxy Music frontman Bryan Ferry married Lucy Helmore.
Asia's "Heat of the Moment" peaked at number four on the pop singles chart.
Survivor's "Eye Of The Tiger" broke into the Top 40.
In 1990
Tom Petty released the video "Full Moon Fever - The Video."
In 1992
Bonnie Raitt opened for Eric Clapton and Elton John in the first of three sell-out dates at London's Wembley Stadium.
The Rolling Stones video "Gimme Shelter" was released.
In 1994
Bonnie Raitt and James Taylor were among the artists recognized for their charity works at the first "VH1 Honors" ceremony.
In 2002
Billy Joel left a treatment facility in Connecticut after completing a ten-day stay.
Gene Simmons appeared on the Fox News Channel's "On the Record," where he discussed marriage, fidelity, and the Pledge of Allegiance controversy.
A marker, which also serves as a time capsule, was dedicated in Indianapolis, Indiana, at the former site of the Market Square Arena, where 25 years earlier Elvis Presley played his last concert ever.
In 2003
Elton John hosted his 5th annual White Tie and Tiara Ball at his British estate. The event is a fundraiser for the Elton John AIDS Foundation.
Deep Purple fans flooded the group with e-mails complaining that the band had chosen to name its next album "Bananas."
Country singer Alan Jackson joined Jimmy Buffett on stage during Buffett's show in Indianapolis, Indiana to shoot a concert segment for the video to Buffett and Jackson's collaborative hit "It's Five O'Clock Somewhere."
In 2004
Brian Wilson made a rare in-store appearance at Tower Records in Sherman Oaks, California to promote his new album, "Gettin' In Over My Head."
Paul McCartney performed at the British Glastonbury festival. It was the first time he'd participated in the event.
In 2007
Surviving Beatles Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr and Beatle widows Yoko Ono and Olivia Harrison were in Las Vegas to mark the first anniversary of the Beatles-inspired Cirque du Soleil show "LOVE." They also joined Cirque du Soleil founder Guy Laliberté for a special dedication ceremony unveiling plaques saluting Lennon and Harrison's contributions to the production.
The defense called its first witness in Phil Spector's murder trial in Los Angeles. The producer's legal team began its case after prosecutors wrapped up their presentation, which took a full two months.
Rod Stewart was among those on hand for the unveiling of Gibson Guitartown London, featuring giant guitars decorated by rockers. The statues were later auctioned off in a charity fundraiser.
Diana Ross received the Lifetime Achievement Award at the BET Awards '07, which included a tribute to the late James Brown.
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Kathy Taylor/cp
6/25/08
Today In History
In 1961
Elvis Presley recorded "Little Sister" and "(Marie's the Name) His Latest Flame" at RCA Studios in Nashville.
In 1964
A New York radio station played The Beatles' "A Hard Day's Night" ten days before it was scheduled to be released. That prompted the band to issue the single the next day.
Roy Orbison's "It's Over" hit number one on the UK pop singles chart.
In 1966
Neil Diamond made his first appearance on "American Bandstand." He performed "Solitary Man."
The Beatles' "Paperback Writer" hit number one on the pop singles chart.
The Chiffons' "Sweet Talkin' Guy" peaked at number ten on the pop singles chart.
The Temptations' "Ain't Too Proud To Beg" hit number one on the Billboard R&B chart.
The Association's "Along Comes Mary" broke into the Top 40.
In 1967
The Beatles recorded "All You Need Is Love" live on the "Our World" program. Eric Clapton, The Rolling Stones' Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, and The Who's Keith Moon were among the members of the chorus for the song.
In 1969
The Hollies recorded the single "He Ain't Heavy, He's My Brother." Elton John played piano on the track.
Sly and the Family Stone recorded the single "Hot Fun in the Summertime."
Mick Taylor made his first concert appearance with The Rolling Stones.
In 1977
Pink Floyd's "Animals" concert in Cleveland set an international attendance record for tickets sold for one act.
Marvin Gaye's "Got To Give It Up (Part 1)" hit number one on the pop singles chart.
The Eagles' "Life In The Fast Lane" peaked at number eleven on the pop singles chart.
Elvis Presley released the single "Way Down" backed with "Pledging My Love."
In 1982
The Rolling Stones performed the first of two shows at London's Wembley Stadium. The concert marked the first time the band had played in Britain in six years.
Robert Plant released the album "Pictures at Eleven."
In 1984
Singer Patti Scialfa joined Bruce Springsteen's E Street Band.
In 1986
Chuck Berry and Rolling Stones guitarist Ron Wood performed at the Ritz in New York.
In 1996
New releases included Eric Clapton's single "Change the World" and Kiss' album "You Want It - The Best."
In 1997
Funeral services were held for the Four Tops' singer Lawrence Payton. He had died several days earlier from liver cancer. He was 59.
In 2001
Aerosmith announced its involvement in a promotional deal with Dodge trucks.
In 2002
The Billy Joel-inspired musical "Movin' Out" opened for a six week run in Chicago.
The Elvis Presley box set "Elvis: Today, Tomorrow, & Forever" and the single of the JXL remix of "A Little Less Conversation" were released.
In 2003
Boston's City Council approved plans for a Bruce Springsteen concert at Fenway Park, marking the first time the baseball stadium would be used for a rock show.
Boston frontman Tom Scholtz sued Artemis Records, claiming the label didn't do enough to promote the group's album "Corporate America."
The Band's Robbie Robertson was inducted into the Canadian Walk of Fame with a star in Toronto's theatre district.
In 2004
David Bowie underwent emergency angioplasty surgery at a hospital in Germany to open a blocked artery. He had entered the hospital initially seeking treatment for what he thought was a pinched nerve in his shoulder. His heart condition forced him to cancel the last eleven dates of his European tour.
Brian Wilson was inducted into the Hollywood Bowl Hall of Fame.
ZZ Top launched its 35th anniversary tour with a show in Wichita Falls, Texas.
John Fogerty launched his first tour in four years with a show in Saratoga, California.
In 2006
Lynyrd Skynyrd and 3 Doors Down launched a collaborative tour with a show in Cincinnati, Ohio.
Noted producer Arif Mardin passed away in New York after a year-long bout with pancreatic cancer. He was 74. Over the course of his career he'd worked with numerous artists of various genres, including Phil Collins, Aretha Franklin, and John Prine.
In 2007
Charlie Daniels received the Secretary of Defense Medal at a ceremony at the Pentagon in recognition of his unwavering support for U.S. troops.
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Kathy Taylor/cp
6/24/08
Today In History
In 1955
Jimmy Young's "Unchained Melody" hit number one on the UK pop singles chart.
In 1957
Elvis Presley's "(Let Me Be Your) Teddy Bear" and Little Richard's "Jenny Jenny" broke into the Top 40.
In 1959
Ricky Nelson sang "I Got A Feeling" on "The Ozzy And Harriet Show."
In 1964
Sam Cooke kicked off a two-week stand at the Copacabana in New York. Highlights from the concert series were later released at the "Live" album.
In 1965
The Hollies' "I'm Alive" hit number one on the UK pop singles chart.
John Lennon's second book, "A Spaniard in the Works," was published in the UK.
In 1966
The Rolling Stones kicked off a North American tour with a show in Lynn, Massachusetts.
The Beatles kicked off a world tour with a show in Munich, Germany. Peter & Gordon was the opening act.
The Beach Boys headlined the Summer Spectacular at the Cow Palace. The Jefferson Airplane, the Lovin' Spoonful, the Byrds, and Percy Sledge were some of the other artists on the bill.
In 1967
Pink Floyd made its debut on the BBC's "Top of the Pops," performing the song "See Emily Play."
The Fifth Dimension was a guest on "American Bandstand."
Spanky and Our Gang's "Sunday Will Never Be The Same" peaked at number nine on the pop singles chart.
The Doors' "Light My Fire" and Stevie Wonder's "I Was Made To Love Her" broke into the Top 40.
The Jefferson Airplane's single "White Rabbit" and Procol Harum's single "Whiter Shade of Pale" were released.
In 1970
Creedence Clearwater Revival released the single "Lookin' Out My Back Door."
In 1972
The Rolling Stones filmed their show in Fort Worth, Texas. The material became the 1974 movie "Ladies and Gentlemen, The Rolling Stones."
Gallery's "Nice To Be With You" peaked at number four on the pop singles chart.
Alice Cooper's "School's Out" broke into the Top 40.
New singles included The Hollies' "Long Cool Woman" and Helen Reddy's "I Am Woman."
In 1973
Al Kooper rejoined his former group Blues Project at a show in New York's Central Park.
In 1978
Gerry Rafferty's "Baker Street" peaked at number two on the pop singles chart.
Carly Simon's "You Belong To Me" peaked at number six on the pop singles chart.
Patti Smith Group's "Because the Night" peaked at number 13 on the pop singles chart.
Jefferson Starship and Genesis were among the headliners at the British Knebworth Festival.
In 1979
Kiss released the album "Dynasty."
In 1981
The Diana Ross-Lionel Richie duet "Endless Love" was released.
In 1984
Jimmy Page joined Yes in concert in Dortmund, Germany, where they performed a cover of The Beatles' "I'm Down."
In 1989
Roseanne Cash's cover of the Beatles' "I Don't Want To Spoil The Party" hit number one on the country chart, marking the first time that a Lennon-McCartney composition made it to the top of that listing.
In 1992
Billy Joel was awarded his high school diploma. He hadn't been able to graduate with his class in 1967 because he was missing English and P.E. credits.
In 1994
Neil Diamond's album "Live in America" and the Elvis Presley video "The Lost Performances" were released.
In 1995
Neil Young stepped in for Pearl Jam when the grunge band's lead singer was suffering with stomach flu and couldn't continue his performance.
In 1999
Eric Clapton raised more than five-million-dollars for his Crossroads Centre in Antigua with the sale of 100 of his guitars. The 1956 Fender on which he wrote the song "Layla" went for a then-record of 495-thousand-500-dollars.
In 2000
Kiss started auctioning off their costumes and other props from their 25 years as performers.
In 2002
Todd Rundgren, Alan Parsons, Cream bassist Jack Bruce, Grand Funk Railroad frontman Mark Farner, and singer-songwriter Christopher Cross were among the artists taking part in the second edition of "A Walk Down Abbey Road - A Tribute to the Beatles," which kicked off a tour in San Diego, California.
In 2003
Canadian officials announced plans for a benefit concert for the city of Toronto in the wake of the SARS outbreak, with the Rolling Stones as the headliner and appearances from numerous other artists, including AC/DC, The Guess Who, and the Isley Brothers.
James Brown received the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2003 BET Awards ceremony in Hollywood.
Lou Reed was inducted into the Hollywood Rockwalk.
Producers of the proposed Janis Joplin biopic "Piece of My Heart" announced that Renee Zellwegger had been picked for the role of Joplin.
Michael McDonald released the album "Motown."
In 2004
Eric Clapton's guitar "Blackie" became the most expensive guitar to be sold at an auction, fetching 959-thousand-500-dollars. Clapton used the guitar extensively throughout the 1970s and '80s, and it was valued at between 100-and-150-thousand-dollars. The auction, at Christie's in New York, was a fundraiser for Clapton's Crossroads Centre rehab facility in Antigua.
Neil Diamond and Barbra Streisand performed together for the first time in decades at a Los Angeles fundraiser for Democratic presidential hopeful John Kerry. The event was originally scheduled for earlier in the month, but was postponed in the wake of former President Ronald Reagan's death.
Diana Ross performed a free concert in Connecticut in support of The Arch Street Teen Center in Greenwich. She also raised money for the organization with a private meet and greet reception, for which tickets were sold.
In 2005
Loggins & Messina launched the Sittin' in Again Reunion Tour with a show in Nampa, Idaho. It was the duo's first road trip together in nearly 30 years.
Pat Boone's single "Thank You, Billy Graham" was released to radio. Former Doobie Brother Michael McDonald also appears on the track.
In 2007
The members of Iron Butterfly staged a benefit concert in Anaheim, California for the band's founding bassist Lee Dorman, who had been suffering from heart problems and face the possibility of needing a transplant.
The Who was the headliner for the final night of the UK's three-day Glastonbury festival.
###
Kathy Taylor/cp
6/23/08
Today In History
In 1960
"The Pat Boone Show" last aired on ABC-TV.
In 1962
Ray Charles' album "Modern Sounds in Country and Western Music" hit number one on the chart, beginning a 14 week stay at the top.
In 1965
The Byrds, The Kingsmen, and Billy Preston were among the artists who performed on the TV show "Shindig!"
Smokey Robinson and the Miracles released the single "The Tracks of My Tears."
The Supremes recorded the song "Love is Like an Itching in My Heart."
In 1966
The Beatles and The Rolling Stones both left England to begin tours. The Fab Four went to Germany to kick off what would be their last world tour, while the Stones hit North America to begin their third U.S. tour.
In 1967
Aretha Franklin recorded the song "Chain of Fools."
The Who bassist John Entwistle married girlfriend Alison Wise.
In 1970
Chubby Checker was arrested in Niagara Falls, New York when police found drugs in his car.
In 1972
Smokey Robinson played his last concert as a member of the Miracles.
In 1975
Alice Cooper fell off the set of his "Welcome To My Nightmare" tour in Vancouver, breaking six ribs.
The Jefferson Starship released the album "Red Octopus."
In 1976
Paul McCartney and Wings wrapped up their Wings Over America tour with a show in Inglewood, California.
In 1977
The Who's drummer Keith Moon joined Led Zeppelin on stage during a concert in Los Angeles. He sat in with John Bonham for the drummer's solo, "Moby Dick."
In 1979
New singles included The Charlie Daniels Band's "The Devil Went Down To Georgia" and The Knack's "My Sharona."
Supertramp's album "Breakfast in America" hit number one on the chart.
In 1981
King Crimson reunited, featuring Robert Fripp, Adrian Belew, Bill Bruford, and Tony Levin.
In 1984
Van Halen released the single "Panama."
In 1990
Actor Gary Busey, who portrayed Buddy Holly in the film "The Buddy Holly Story," paid more than 242-thousand-dollars for one of the rock legend's guitar at an auction.
In 1994
The musical "Copacabana," based on the work of Barry Manilow, opened in London.
In 1996
Kiss released the album "You Wanted the Best, You Got the Best."
In 2000
Neil Young received a star on the Canadian Walk of Fame.
In 2003
Diana Ross made her first appearance in a Tucson, Arizona, courtroom in connection with her drunk driving arrest nearly six-months earlier.
Petula Clark and Nancy Sinatra performed at a biographical tribute concert for jazz singer Peggy Lee at New York's Carnegie Hall.
In 2004
David Bowie cut short a concert in Prague because of severe shoulder pain that at the time was said to be a pinched nerve. However, Bowie later revealed that he had a heart condition.
Bob Dylan received an honorary Doctor of Music from St. Andrews University in St. Andrews, Scotland. He attended the afternoon ceremony before heading to Glasgow for a concert that evening.
Kiss cancelled its concert with Poison in Auburn, Washington because bassist Gene Simmons was sick.
George Thorogood and the Destroyers launched the second leg of their 30th anniversary tour with a show in Richmond, Virginia.
In 2006
Robert Plant, Ian Hunter, Nils Lofgren, and Garland Jeffreys were among the performers at "We're Doing It For Love: A Benefit Concert for Arthur Lee," a fundraiser to help the former Love frontman pay for treatment in his struggle against leukemia.
Aretha Franklin was included in "In Style" magazine's ultimate fan issue with Faith Hill, as an idol of the country-pop singer.
In 2007
During The Stooges' headlining set at the UK's Glastonbury festival, a guitar belonging to band member Ron Asheton disappeared. A security guard at the event blamed frontman Iggy Pop, who prompted the crowd to rush the stage when he invited a fan to join him for the performance.
Kenny Loggins, The Eagles' Glenn Frey, and Sam Moore were among the performers at the "So the World May Hear" Awards Gala, a fundraiser for the Starkey Hearing Foundation, in St. Paul, Minnesota.
###
Kathy Taylor/dcr
6/20/08
Today In History
In 1962
Ricky Nelson recorded the song "Teenage Idol."
In 1963
Gerry and the Pacemakers' "I Like It" hit number one on the UK pop singles chart.
The Beatles created the production company The Beatles Limited.
In 1964
Gerry and the Pacemakers' "Don't Let The Sun Catch You Crying" broke into the top ten.
Dave Clark Five's "Can't You See That She's Mine" broke into the Top 40.
Johnny Rivers performed "Memphis" on "American Bandstand."
A "London Times" critic panned John Lennon's book "In His Own Write," calling it, quote, "a pathetic state of near illiteracy."
In 1965
The Beatles kicked off a European tour with a show in Paris.
In 1966
The "New York Times" reported that both Beatle George Harrison and Rolling Stone Brian Jones had taken up the sitar.
In 1969
The three-day Newport '69 Festival started in Northridge, California, with 150-thousand attending. Performers included Jimi Hendrix, Joe Cocker, Creedence Clearwater Revival, Ike & Tina Turner, Jethro Tull, The Rascals, and Steppenwolf. Hendrix received 125-thousand-dollars for his appearance. At the time, it was the highest fee ever paid to a single rock act for one appearance.
David Bowie signed a deal with Mercury Records.
In 1973
Little Richard, Paul Revere and the Raiders, and Three Dog Night were among the artists featured on "American Bandstand's" 20th anniversary program.
In 1977
Island Records released Steve Winwood's first solo album.
In 1980
Billy Joel's "It's Still Rock and Roll" became his first number one hit.
In 1981
Gary U.S. Bonds' "This Little Girl" peaked at number eleven on the pop singles chart.
In 1983
Duane Eddy kicked off his first tour in 15 years with a show in San Francisco.
In 1986
Paul McCartney, Tina Turner, and Elton John were among the artists performing at the Prince's Trust Concert in London.
In 1987
Boston played its first show in eight years with a show at the 10th Annual Texas Jam.
In 1988
Elton John released the album "Reg Strikes Back.
In 1989
New releases included Rush's album "2112," Anderson Bruford Wakeman Howe's self-titled album, and Cher's single "If I Could Turn Back Time."
In 1994
London's "Daily Express" reported that Paul McCartney, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr were working in the studio together for the first time in 24 years. They recorded a new song that was to be included on "The Beatles Anthology."
The Rolling Stones began rehearsals for the "Voodoo Lounge" tour at a compound near Toronto, Canada.
In 1996
The Furthur Festival started in Atlanta. The show marked the first time some of the members of The Grateful Dead performed together since the death of Jerry Garcia.
In 1997
The Four Tops' Lawrence Payton died of liver cancer. He was 59.
In 2001
Iron Butterfly and Doors keyboardist Ray Manzarek were among the artists who performed on the second day of the Experience Music Project's five-day first anniversary party.
In 2002
Aerosmith, Eric Clapton, and Ozzy Osbourne's family were among those included on "Forbes" magazine's list of the 100 most powerful celebrities in the world.
In 2003
Santana was a guest on ABC's "Good Morning America," promoting his album "Shaman."
Jeff Beck joined B.B. King for the blues great's "Live By Request" concert in New York.
In 2004
Paul McCartney played his first career concert in St. Petersburg, Russia, which was also estimated to have been his three-thousandth live show.
In 2006
Aretha Franklin played a concert at the Apollo Theater in Harlem for the first time in 20 years. It was the first of a pair of shows, headlining two Black Music Month galas at the famed venue.
A funeral for the late Billy Preston will took place at the Faithful Central Bible Church's Tabernacle in Inglewood, California.
Kool and the Gang co-founder Claydes "Charles" Smith died following a lengthy illness. He was 57.
The BBC announced it was cancelling the TV series "Top of the Pops" after a 42-year run. The Rolling Stones appeared on the series' first episode, and over the decades the show featured countless stars including The Beatles, Jimi Hendrix, the Hollies, and David Bowie.
In 2007
Patti LaBelle was among the performers at Teddy 25 -- a tribute concert honoring Teddy Pendergrass and a benefit for the Teddy Pendergrass Alliance -- which took place in Philadelphia.
###
Kathy Taylor/acm
6/19/08
Today In History
In 1961
Pat Boone's "Moon River" hit number one on the pop singles chart.
Bobby Lewis' "Tossin' and Turnin'" broke into the Top 10.
Bobby Darin recorded "You Must Have Been A Beautiful Baby" and "Things" in a session for ATCO Records in New York.
In 1964
New album releases included "Johnny Rivers at the Whiskey A Go-Go" and "The Dave Clark Five Returns."
In 1965
The Kinks and the Moody Blues made their U.S. concert debut with a show at the Academy of Music in New York.
The Four Tops' "I Can't Help Myself" hit number one on the pop singles chart.
Elvis Presley's "Crying in the Chapel" hit number one on the UK pop singles chart.
The Rolling Stones' "(I Can't Get No) Satisfaction" and Johnny Rivers' "Seventh Son" broke into the Top 40.
In 1969
The Rolling Stones' "Jumpin' Jack Flash" hit number one on the UK pop singles chart.
In 1971
Carole King's "It's Too Late" hit number one on the pop singles chart.
The Carpenters' "Rainy Days And Mondays" peaked at number two on the pop singles chart.
James Taylor's "You've Got A Friend," the Grass Roots' "Sooner Or Later," and Jean Knight's "Mr. Big Stuff" broke into the Top 40.
In 1973
Roberta Flack's TV special, "Roberta Flack...The First Time Ever" aired on ABC.
Edgar Winter's single "Frankenstein" was certified Gold.
In 1976
The reissue of The Beatles' "Got To Get You Into My Life" and the Beach Boys' "Rock and Roll Music" broke into the Top 40.
Blue Oyster Cult released the album "Agents of Fortune", which includes the hit single "Don't Fear the Reaper."
In 1982
Asia's self-titled album hit number one on the albums chart.
Steve Miller began his first tour in three years in Lake Tahoe to support his album "Abracadabra." The title single had just broken into the Top 40.
Joan Jett and the Blackheart's "Crimson and Clover" peaked at number seven on the pop singles chart.
Fleetwood Mac's "Hold Me" broke into the Top 40.
In 1987
Ben & Jerry Ice Cream announce its newest flavor, Cherry Garcia, after the Grateful Dead's Jerry Garcia.
In 1990
Bruce Hornsby and the Range released the album "A Night On The Town."
In 1991
Cher released the album "Love Hurts."
In 1993
Rod Stewart's "Have I Told You Lately" peaked at number five on the pop singles chart.
In 1997
Bobby Helms died from emphysema and asthma at the age of 63. He's best remembered for the holiday classic "Jingle Bell Rock."
In 2001
Little Richard kicked off the five-day first anniversary celebration for the Experience Music Project in Seattle with a concert with Little Blue and the Blue Notes.
Joan Jett and the Blackhearts' DVD "Joan Jett and the Blackhearts Live" was released.
In 2002
Meat Loaf began a short North American tour with a show in Rama, Ontario, Canada.
In 2003
Paul McCartney and the Rolling Stones were among those in the top ten on "Forbes" magazine's Celebrity 100 List.
Yoko Ono attended the opening of her art exhibit "Yes Yoko Yes" at the Rodin Gallery in Seoul, South Korea.
In 2004
The exhibit "Spirit of the Woodstock Generation: The Photographs of Elliott Landy," featuring more than 60 original photos from the man who was an official photographer at the 1969 Woodstock Festival, opened at the New York State Museum in Albany.
In 2005
Ringo Starr's first exhibit of visual art, featuring his computer-generated designs, opened at the Pop International Galleries in New York City.
In 2006
The late Billy Preston was remembered with a viewing and musical tribute. Joe Cocker, the Edwin Hawkins Singers, Natalie Cole, and Chaka Khan were among the artists performing at salute, which followed a day-long viewing at the Simpson Family Mortuary in Los Angeles.
Mark Knopfler and Emmylou Harris launched a tour behind the album "All the Roadrunning" with a show in Toronto.
###
Kathy Taylor/ddw
6/18/08
Today In History
In 1959
Fats Domino recorded the single "I Want To Walk You Home" in a studio in New Orleans.
In 1964
The Beatles kicked off a six-night stand in Sydney, Australia.
In 1965
The Dave Clark Five kicked off a five-week North American tour with a show in New York at the Academy of Music.
In 1966
Sam & Dave's "Hold On! I'm Coming" hit number one on the Billboard R&B chart.
Robert Parker's "Bare Footin'" peaked at number seven on the pop singles chart.
Gary Lewis and the Playboys' "Green Grass" peaked at number eight on the pop singles chart.
Tommy James and the Shondells' "Hanky Panky" broke into the Top 40.
In 1967
Jimi Hendrix closed the Monterey Pop Festival with a set that included burning his guitar on stage.
In 1968
London's National Theater debuted "In His Own Write," a theatrical adaptation of the writings of John Lennon.
In 1971
Rod Stewart released the album "Every Picture Tells A Story."
In 1973
Paul McCartney & Wings' "Live and Let Die" broke into the Top Ten.
In 1976
The Pretty Things singer Phil May left the group. He was the last original member in the band, and had been with the group since 1965.
In 1977
Fleetwood Mac's "Dreams" hit number one on the pop singles chart. While the band placed 18 hits on the charts in the '70s and '80s, and had nine enter the top ten, "Dreams" was the only one to reach the top of the charts.
James Taylor released the single "Handy Man."
In 1980
Diana Ross released the single "Upside Down."
In 1983
Stevie Nicks' "Stand Back" broke into the Top 40.
In 1987
Bruce Springsteen and wife Julianne Phillips separated.
In 1988
Eric Carmen's single "Make Me Lose Control" and Steve Winwood's single "Roll With It" broke into the Top 40.
In 1994
The Rolling Stones taped the video for the single "Love Is Strong."
In 2003
A set of stamps honoring the Rolling Stones was issued by the Austrian Post Office, and sales began in conjunction with the band's concert in Vienna.
In 2004
Ray Charles was remembered at a funeral service in Los Angeles. Stevie Wonder, B.B. King, and Glen Campbell were among the performers. Charles died eight days earlier from complications related to liver disease.
Iron Maiden received the Special Achievement Award at the British Silver Clef Awards in London.
In 2006
Paul McCartney turned 64.
In 2007
The Tokens' Hank Medress died at his home in Manhatta. He had been battling lung cancer. Medress was 68.
The Doors, Alice Cooper, Ozzy Osbourne, The Stooges, former Fleetwood Mac guitarist Peter Green, and Ike Turner were recognized at the MOJO Honours List ceremony, presented by the British music magazine "MOJO."
###
Kathy Taylor/cp
6/17/08
Today In History
In 1933
Elvis Presley's parents, Vernon Presley and Gladys Smith, were married in a ceremony in Ponotoc, Mississippi.
In 1957
The Everly Brothers' "Bye Bye Love" peaked at number two on the pop singles chart.
Johnny Mathis' "It's Not For Me To Say" peaked at number five on the pop singles chart.
The Coasters' "Young Blood" peaked at number eight on the pop singles chart.
In 1964
Elvis Presley's movie "Viva Las Vegas" opened in theaters across the country.
Jay and the Americans recorded the single "Come a Little Bit Closer."
In 1965
The Kinks arrived in New York City to begin their first U.S. tour.
Elvis Presley's "Crying in the Chapel" hit number one on the UK pop singles chart.
In 1966
Paul McCartney bought a farm in Kintyre, Scotland.
In 1967
A Barbra Streisand concert in New York's Central Park attracted a crowd of 135-thousand.
The Turtles' "She'd Rather Be With Me" peaked at number three on the pop singles chart.
Jefferson Airplane's "Somebody To Love" peaked at number five on the pop singles chart.
The Temptation's "All I Need" peaked at number eight on the pop singles chart.
Tommy James and the Shondells' "Mirage" peaked at number ten on the pop singles chart.
Johnny Rivers' "The Tracks of My Tears" and The Fifth Dimension's "Up Up And Away" broke into the Top 40.
The Hollies released the single "Carrie Ann."
In 1972
The Grateful Dead's Ron "Pig Pen" McKernan played his last show with the group, at the Hollywood Bowl.
The Fifth Dimension's "(Last Night) I Didn't Get To Sleep At All" peaked at number eight on the pop singles chart.
Derek and the Dominos' "Layla" broke into the Top 40.
The Rolling Stones' album "Exile on Main Street" hit number one on the albums chart.
Looking Glass released the single "Brandy."
In 1973
Steppenwolf business manager Joe Saylor was shot in the arm when intruders broke into his West Hollywood apartment.
In 1975
Orleans released the single "Dance With Me."
In 1977
New album releases included Crosby, Stills, and Nash's "CSN" and Steve Winwood's self-titled solo debut.
Neil Sedaka served as host of "The Midnight Special," with guests Fleetwood Mac, Van Morrison, and Kenny Rogers.
In 1978
Frankie Valli's "Grease" broke into the Top 40.
The Jefferson Starship cancelled its appearance at the Lorley Festival in Germany at the last minute because Grace Slick was too drunk to perform.
In 1980
Led Zeppelin began a three-week European tour. It was their first on the continent since 1973. It would be the group's last tour.
In 1984
Bob Dylan granted his first TV interview in 19 years, to a reporter in Nice, France.
In 1987
Rod Stewart and Kelly Emberg became parents to a daughter, Ruby.
In 1988
Paul McCartney announced that he would release an album exclusively in Russia. He was the first artist to do that.
In 1989
Ringo Starr announced that he was going on the road with the All Starr Band, which featured Billy Preston, Dr. John, the Eagles' Joe Walsh, The Band's Rick Danko and Levon Helm, and E Street Band members Clarence Clemmons and Nils Lofgren.
Lita Ford and Ozzy Osbourne's "Close My Eyes Forever" peaked at number eight on the pop singles chart.
John Mellencamp's "Pop Singer" peaked at number 15 on the pop singles chart.
In 1991
Bonnie Raitt released the album "Luck of the Draw."
In 1995
Rod Stewart set an attendance record at London's Wembley Stadium, performing for a crowd of 90-thousand.
In 1999
Barry Manilow was awarded the Humanitarian Award from Jerusalem's Friends of Sheba Medical Center as part of a benefit event in Beverly Hills, California.
In 2002
The remixed version of Elvis Presley's 1968 song "A Little Less Conversation" hit number one on the UK pop singles chart. The accomplishment gave Presley his 18th chart topper in Britain, breaking a 25-year-old tie he'd been in with The Beatles for the most UK number one hits.
Love's Arthur Lee was honored by the British House of Commons.
In 2003
Rod Stewart's estranged wife Rachel Hunter filed divorce papers in a Los Angeles court to formally end their marriage. The two married in 1990, but had been separated since 1999.
Steve Winwood released the album "About Time." He also began a mini-tour with The Dead, playing the first of seven shows with the group in Virginia Beach, Virginia.
Santana was named as nominees for the 2003 Teen Choice Awards.
In 2004
Rod Stewart and Billy Joel were among those selected to receive stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2005.
The Bruce Springsteen exhibit "Springsteen - Troubadour of the Highway" opened at the Newark Museum in Newark, New Jersey.
A public memorial service was held for the late Ray Charles in Los Angeles.
In 2005
The Who was among the winners at the UK-based Nordoff-Robbins Silver Clef Awards.
In 2006
The Who performed at Leeds University in England, marking the band's first concert at the school since its 1970 show that became the album "Live at Leeds."
Van Halen's Eddie and Alex Van Halen made a surprise guest appearance at Kenny Chesney's concert in Carson, California, marking their first stage appearance since their band's 2004 tour. They backed Chesney on the Van Halen hit "Jump" and The Kinks' "You Really Got Me," which Van Halen covered for the group's debut single.
###
Kathy Taylor/ddw
6/16/08
Today In History
In 1956
Gene Vincent and His Blue Caps released the single "Be-Bop-A-Lula."
In 1961
Gary "U.S." Bonds was a guest on "American Bandstand."
In 1962
Gene Pitney's "(The Man Who Shot) Liberty Valance" peaked at number four on the pop singles chart.
Elvis Presley's "Follow That Dream" peaked at number 15 on the pop singles chart.
Bobby Vinton's "Roses Are Red" broke into the Top 40.
In 1965
Gerry and the Pacemakers, Petula Clark, Gary Lewis and the Playboys, and the Everly Brothers were among those who appeared on the TV show "Shindig!"
In 1967
Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin, the Who, Buffalo Springfield, Canned Heat, and the Grateful Dead, were among the artists who performed at the three-day Monterey Pop Festival in Monterey, California. It was the first of the 1960's great rock fests.
The Beatles were featured on the cover of "Life" magazine, while the band's producer George Martin was profiled in "Time."
Pink Floyd released the single "See Emily Play."
In 1968
Janis Joplin, Steve Miller, and Santana played a benefit concert at Bill Graham's Fillmore Auditorium in San Francisco.
In 1972
Neil Diamond released the album "Moods."
In 1973
Clint Holmes' "Playground in My Mind" peaked at number two on the pop singles chart.
Deep Purple's "Smoke On The Water," Seals & Crofts' "Diamond Girl," and The Carpenters' "Yesterday Once More" broke into the Top 40.
In 1975
John Lennon filed a lawsuit in New York against two former U.S. Attorneys General for harassment in connection with the government's attempts to deport him in the early 1970s.
In 1977
The revue "Beatlemania" opened on Broadway at the Winter Garden Theater in New York.
In 1978
The movie "Grease," starring Olivia Newton-John and John Travolta, opened in theaters.
Rod Stewart and Todd Rundgren were among the guests on "The Midnight Special." Country singer Mac Davis hosted the show.
In 1979
Bad Company's "Rock 'N' Roll Fantasy" peaked at number 13 on the pop singles chart.
In 1982
.38 Special frontman Donnie Van Zant was arrested on stage in Tulsa, Oklahoma for drinking in public.
In 1987
Jerry Garcia gave permission to the Ben & Jerry ice cream company to introduce a flavor in his honor, called Cherry Garcia. In addition, the Grateful Dead released its album "In the Dark," which includes "Touch of Grey," the first Dead song to make the Billboard Top Ten.
In 1988
Pink Floyd performed in West Berlin. Roughly two-thousand fans in East Berlin gathered at the wall to listen to the show.
In 1989
Smokey Robinson launched a line of perfume, called "Smoke."
In 1993
The U.S. Postal Service unveiled its new series of stamps that featured pioneer rockers Elvis Presley, Buddy Holly, Bill Haley, Ritchie Valens, Otis Redding, and Clyde McPhatter.
In 1999
Phil Collins got a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
In 2002
The Beach Boys and Donovan were among the artists performing at Surfrider Summerfest in Anaheim, California.
In 2003
Members of Toto apologized to keyboardist David Paich after a joke they started, saying he wasn't going on the group's summer tour because he was having a sex change operation, had gotten out of hand. Paich was sitting out the road trip to tend to a sick relative.
In 2004
A reunited New York Dolls performed at the Meltdown festival in London, marking the group's first official headlining show since the 1970s.
Aerosmith had to cancel a concert in Virginia Beach, Virginia because frontman Steven Tyler was battling a throat ailment.
The last sketch drawn by the late John Lennon failed to sell at an auction in London. The autographed doodle, which the former Beatle scrawled roughly a half-hour before he was shot to death, failed to get the 150-thousand-dollar minimum bid set by auctioneers Cooper Owen.
In 2005
Aerosmith's Joe Perry offered a solo performance during halftime of the NBA Finals 2005 Game Four in Detroit. He played the song "Shakin' My Cage," from his self-titled solo album.
Dr. John, Jeff Beck, and former Byrds bassist Chris Hillman were among the winners at the 2nd annual Mojo Honours event in London.
In 2006
The Rolling Stones took the number two spot on the "Forbes" Celebrity 100 list of the most power celebrities. Tom Cruise topped the list.
In 2007
Rod Stewart married model Penny Lancaster in a ceremony at the Italian Riviera resort of Portofino. When they tied the knot, the two had already been a couple for about seven years and had a one-and-half-year-old son together.
###
Kathy Taylor/cp
6/13/08
Today In History
