🎸CLASSIC ROCK: Elton John’s Blindness | McCartney Sneaks In | Hendrix at 82

What's Happenin' Classic Rock Fans?,

Elton John reveals his blindness, and Rod Stewart announces his much-anticipated return to Glastonbury. Meanwhile, Paul McCartney surprised fans at a NYC premiere, and Band Aid is making headlines 40 years after its debut. Plus, we’re celebrating Jimi Hendrix’s birthday, revisiting The Beatles’ first BBC session, and honoring the day George Harrison dropped All Things Must Pass. Scroll down for the full scoop!

🤔 Rock Trivia Question:
Which classic Rolling Stones song was inspired by Mick Jagger’s experience getting fined for reckless driving in 1964?

📰 Classic Rock News

💿 Elton John revealed in a heartfelt interview that he’s been dealing with vision loss in his right eye due to an infection. It’s been four months since he’s been able to see clearly, making studio recording a challenge. He confesses “I can’t see a thing.”.
Hear Elton’s emotional update.

💿 Fans in NYC were stunned when Paul McCartney slipped into the premiere of a new Beatles documentary. The 82-year-old icon sat unassumingly in the middle of the crowd, sitting behind Chris Rock. He waved to fans before enjoying the film alongside his wife, Nancy Shevell. This surprise visit shows Paul’s enduring charm and connection with fans.
Catch the buzz from Paul’s surprise appearance.

💿 Rod Stewart is set to take Glastonbury by storm in 2025 after announcing his retirement from the big stage! The 79-year-old rocker will perform in the coveted Legends slot, following icons like Dolly Parton and Barry Gibb. Known for his electrifying performances, Rod promises to bring his signature energy and charisma to the festival stage.
Read more about Rod’s big announcement.

💿 Bob Geldof celebrates 40 years of Band Aid with a fresh reimagining of "Do They Know It’s Christmas?" The new version will blend iconic voices from past recordings, like George Michael and Sting, with modern stars like Ed Sheeran and Harry Styles. He also tells a funny David Bowie story.
Discover the story behind Band Aid 40.

📅 On This Day in Rock History

1962: The Beatles recorded their first-ever BBC radio session, performing "Twist and Shout," "Love Me Do," and "P.S. I Love You." This marked the beginning of their rise to becoming household names.
Hear their raw and energetic early session.

1964: Mick Jagger was fined £16 for reckless driving in Tettenhall, England. This incident, while minor, fueled the rebellious image of The Rolling Stones in their early days. The incident inspired a Stones classic, revealed in today’s trivia answer below.
Watch a full Rolling Stones concert from 2024

1967: The Beatles released their groundbreaking album Magical Mystery Tour in the U.S., a psychedelic journey that has captivated fans for decades. Tracks like "I Am the Walrus" still define their experimental era.
Watch a doc on the making of this magical album.

1969: The Rolling Stones recorded their legendary live album Get Yer Ya-Ya’s Out! at Madison Square Garden, with Jimi Hendrix celebrating his 27th birthday in the audience.
Hear the full iconic live album.

1970: George Harrison released All Things Must Pass, a triple album that showcased his brilliance as a solo artist. Songs like "My Sweet Lord" solidified his legacy beyond The Beatles.
Listen to the full album.

1972: Carly Simon released the single "You’re So Vain," sparking decades of speculation about its mysterious subject.
Finally uncover who Carly was singing about.

1976: Rod Stewart held the top spot on the charts with "Tonight’s The Night (Gonna Be Alright)," an unforgettable anthem of the ‘70s.
Watch the official video.

1991: Freddie Mercury’s funeral brought together music royalty to say goodbye to one of the greatest voices in rock history.
Watch a tribute to Freddie’s life and legacy.

🎂 Rock Star Birthdays

🎉 Jimi Hendrix (1942): The guitar legend would have been 82 today. Known for redefining rock music, Hendrix’s influence spans generations.
Watch a documentary on his final 24 hours.

🎉 Mike Bordin (1962): The Faith No More drummer turns 62. His dynamic drumming also powered Ozzy Osbourne’s live shows.
Relive "Epic" with Mike on drums.

🎉 Charlie Burchill (1959): The Simple Minds guitarist celebrates 65 years of iconic riffs and melodies.
Enjoy "Don’t You Forget About Me."

🎉 Randy Brecker (1945): Turning 79, the jazz-rock fusion icon left his mark on Blood, Sweat & Tears.
Hear his soulful trumpet playing.

🎉 Eddie Rabbitt (1941): Known for his crossover hits, Eddie wrote Elvis Presley’s "Kentucky Rain."
Enjoy this timeless classic.

🎉 Charlie Benante (1962): The Anthrax drummer and graphic artist celebrates his 62nd birthday.
Hear Charlie discuss his career.

🕊️ Remembering a Legend

In 1985, Gary Lewis & the Playboys bassist Allan Ramsey passed away in a plane crash at age 42. His memorable work on "This Diamond Ring" continues to resonate with fans.
Watch his classic performance.

🎧 Essential Track for Today

"My Sweet Lord" by George Harrison
This track was a spiritual and musical revelation, blending gospel influences with rock. Its message of unity and devotion continues to inspire listeners.
Experience the full masterpiece album.

🔦 Deep Track Spotlight

"Apple Scruffs" by George Harrison
A heartfelt tribute to the loyal fans who waited outside Abbey Road Studios, this hidden gem captures George’s humor and warmth.
Rediscover this sweet track with this 2020 remix.

🌈 Rock & Roll Inspiration

Ooh, you make me live
Whatever this world can give to me
It's you, you're all I see
Ooh, you make me live now, honey
Ooh, you make me live
You're the best friend

Queen - “You’re My Best Friend”

🤔 Trivia Answer:

Mick Jagger’s reckless driving fine in 1964 inspired The Rolling Stones’ rebellious anthem, "Street Fighting Man"

Have a Rockin’ Day!
Hippy Pete