On This Day
We take you back into classic rock’s history and legacy to note important events that happened on this date as well as celebrate the birthdays of major musical artists and mourn their passing.
When Elvis Was Inducted Into the US Army
When the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll was called upon to serve his country, he went with a smile. On this date, he became Private Elvis Presley.
Read MoreWhen Billy Joel Married His ‘Uptown Girl’
She had no idea who the piano player was. He knew who she was though. In fact, they’d met before. Now he wanted to make her his ‘Uptown Girl.’
Read MoreMar 22, 2020: Eric Weissberg, ‘Dueling Banjos’ Musician—Obituary
The 1973 instrumental hit, which actually featured guitar and banjo, became popular when it was included in a key scene in the harrowing film ‘Deliverance.’
Read MoreMarch 22, 1965: Dylan ‘Brings it All Back Home’
As 1965 dawned, with the Beatles having redrawn the map, the singer-songwriter from Minnesota knew he wanted to try something different.
Read MoreMarch 21, 1964: Beatles’ ‘She Loves You’ Hits #1
They were already on top in the US with “I Want to Hold Your Hand.” Then they replaced themselves. And then they did it again! The fab chart story.
Read MoreRemembering ‘The Gambler’: Kenny Rogers, Country-Pop Superstar
He was a steady presence on country radio in the ’70s + ’80s, and crossed over to Top 40 with such hits as “The Gambler.” He also sang on “We Are the World”
Read MoreMarch 20, 1971: Janis Joplin Hits #1 With ‘Bobby McGee’
When Janis heard Kris Kristofferson’s song she had to record it. A few days later she was dead, but it went on to become her only #1 single.
Read MoreMarch 19, 1982: Guitarist Randy Rhoads Dies
He was only 25, and one of the most promising guitarists in rock. One night in Florida he boarded a small plane and it didn’t end well. RIP.
Read MoreBobbi Ercoline, Mystery Woman on Iconic Woodstock Album Cover
“We were passing the [album] jacket around. Then we saw the blanket. That’s us!”—said her husband, Nick
Read MoreMarch 18, 1978: California Jam 2 Rocks LA
The original festival was a success so the promoters decided to go for a sequel: a day of music featuring Aerosmith, Heart, Foreigner, Santana and more.
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