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Step into the latest scoop where Paul McCartney revisits 1967’s counterculture, Robert Plant reveals why he nearly quit music, Steven Van Zandt gushes over Springsteen’s on-screen portrayal, and Gene Simmons officiates a Las Vegas wedding, and more…

Today in Classic Rock History

1951
Little Richard made his first recordings for RCA Camden at WGST radio station in Atlanta at age 18, beginning his journey to rock 'n' roll legend. Watch Early Recording​

1954
Elvis Presley performed on the Louisiana Hayride radio program in Shreveport, Louisiana, his first major broadcast. After an enthusiastic reception, he was booked to appear every week for a year at $18 per show. Watch Historic Performance​

1957
Sam Cooke's "You Send Me" was released by Keen Records. The single became his biggest hit, topping the Billboard chart and selling 2½ million copies. Watch on Ed Sullivan​

1965
The Beatles recorded "Day Tripper" at Abbey Road Studios in three takes, completing the song with vocals and overdubs in one day. Watch Official Video​

1966
Grace Slick made her debut with Jefferson Airplane at the Fillmore West in San Francisco, replacing Signe Toly Anderson. She brought "White Rabbit" and "Somebody to Love" to the band. Watch Debut Performance​

1967
Folk singer Joan Baez was arrested along with 123 others for blocking the entrance to an Armed Forces Induction Center in Oakland, California, protesting the Vietnam War. Watch Arrest Footage​

1968
Reprise Records released "Electric Ladyland" by The Jimi Hendrix Experience. It became the band's most commercially successful LP, topping the Billboard 200 and featuring "All Along the Watchtower." Watch Documentary​

1969
Leonard Chess, co-founder of Chess Records, died of a heart attack at age 52. His label was home to Chuck Berry, Bo Diddley, Muddy Waters, and other blues and rock legends. Watch Tribute​

1972
Creedence Clearwater Revival officially broke up following the failure of their album "Mardi Gras." After an incredible run of creativity, the band's internal tensions finally ended their partnership. Watch Breakup Timeline​

1974
The Rolling Stones released "It's Only Rock and Roll," their twelfth studio album. It reached number one in the United States and was the last album to feature guitarist Mick Taylor. Watch Title Track​

1976
Stevie Wonder's "Songs In The Key Of Life" debuted at number one on the Billboard 200, becoming only the third album to ever achieve that feat. The masterpiece remained at number one for thirteen weeks. Watch Sir Duke​​​

Have a Rockin Day,
Hippy Pete