On this day: January 31, 1967

Parents, faculty and cops were nervous about a concert about to take place at Yorktown Heights High School in New York on January 31, 1967.

The reason for all the apprehension was Pete Seeger, folk singer behind such hits as; Where Have All the Flowers Gone, If I Had a Hammer, and Which Side are You On, was performing at the school to a group of young students. Adults feared the gentile political activist would incite riots.

In actuality the concert went off without a hitch, and there were no violent incidents.

Other notable events for January 31:
-Little Richard quits music on Jan. 31, 1958 to attend evangelism college at the height of his musical career
-The Doobie Brothers split up Jan. 31, 1982
-Johnny Rotten was born Jan. 31, 1956
-The Beastie Boys deny rumors that the group has broken up on Jan. 31, 1988, the rap trio was just pursuing solo projects at the time

On this day: January 30, 1969

Passerby's lucky enough to be outside of Apple Corps headquarters on January 30, 1969 were among the few to see the last ever live performance by The Beatles who had an impromptu concert on the roof.

The concert was being filmed for an upcoming documentary about the Fab 4, called Let it Be. Unfortunately, the concert lasted only 42 minutes as cops were called due to noise complaints from neighboring buildings. If only they knew back then what a huge part of music history they were stopping....

The Beatles were playing a new song; Get Back, when the music stopped. And the four guys from Liverpool would never play live together again.

Other notable events for January 30:
-Notorious songwriter Kris Kristofferson receives a prestigious award from the Nashville Songwriters Association on Jan. 30, 1971
-Spandau Ballet announce a split with Chrysalis Records on Jan. 30, 1986 due to a dispute over musical direction and image marketing
-Stephen Stills is born Jan. 30, 1945
-Phil Collins is born Jan. 30, 1951 

On this day: January 29, 1962

Three relatively unknowns were signed to Warner Bros Records on January 29, 1962. The three artists were; Peter Yarrow, Paul Stookey and Mary Travers and together they formed Peter, Paul and Mary one of the best known folk acts of the 60's

Over the span of their career they had 19 hit singles including; If I Had a Hammer, Puff the Magic Dragon, Blowin' in the Wind, and Leaving on a Jet Plane.

The trio eventually fell by the wayside as hard rock began to replace the mellow soft sounds of folk. But their influence still lives on even to this day.

Other notable events for January 29:
-Men at Work top  the US and UK singles and album charts at the same time on Jan. 29, 1983 with their hit Down Under and their album Business as Usual
-Two top independent British labels; Island and Still merge on Jan. 29, 1984
-We Are the Word is recorded Jan. 29, 1985 in LA as a response to Band Aid's Do They Know It's Christmas
-Brenda Spencer opens fire on her classmates, killing 11 of them Jan. 29, 1979. The act inspired Bob Geldof of The Boomtown Rats to write the song I Don't Like Mondays

On this day: January 28, 1976

Gary Glitter, formerly Paul Gadd, Paul Raven and Paul Monday announced his retirement January 28, 1976 as the era of glam rock was beginning to fade.

Glitter had become a star after recording a lengthy stomping instrumental, Rock 'n' Roll Parts 1 and 2, still played at just about all sporting events today; "Hey!"

Retirement was short lived for Glitter who staged a comeback tour in 1980 with mild success and remained a semi-well known name until his arrest in 1997 for having over 4,000 child pornography images on his computer.

Other notable events for January 28
-The Who made their television debut on Jan. 28, 1965 on the British show Ready Steady Go
-The first three singles by The Smiths hold the top three places on the charts on Jan. 28, 1984
-The Sex Pistols debut album, Never Mind the Bollocks- Here's the Sex Pistols! went gold on Jan. 28, 1988, selling 500,000, eleven years after its initial release

On this day: January 27, 1981

Capricorn Records, a company based out of Macon Georgia filed for bankruptcy on January 27, 1981. The company was best known for signing southern rock acts including the Allman Brothers.

While the Allman's helped put Capricorn on the map, their untimely breakup after the death of two members also unfortunately helped lead to the downfall of Capricorn as well.

Former President Jimmy Carter, also from Macon was very supportive of the local record company, and was even interviewed in Macon for the BBC show The Old Grey Whistle Test before becoming president.

Other notable events for January 27:
-Joe Meek launches Triumph Records Jan. 27, 1960
-Chubby Checker had four top 10 albums on the chart on Jan. 27, 1962, this is the first time this has happened for a non MoR act
-Bruce Springsteen wins Grammy's for Best Male Vocalist and Best Album (Born in the USA) on Jan. 27, 1986
-Nick Mason of Pink Floyd is born Jan. 27, 1945

On this day: January 26, 1984

January 26, 1984 started out as a fun day for King of Pop Michael Jackson, he was filming a commercial for Pepsi as part of his $5 million dollar contract with his latest tour sponsor.

However fun turned to fear when an unexpected explosion caused Jackson's recently hairspraied famous curls. The fire was put out as son as possible, but Jackson lost a considerable amount of his famous hair, and was left with second degree burns on his head and neck.

Jackson would go on to complete a commercial for the company and fans were thrilled to hear the stars injuries were not life threatening. Jackson made a full and fast recovery and was back to entertaining fans in just a few weeks.

Other notable events for January 26:
-Buddy Holly's first official recording session took place Jan. 26, 1956
-John Lennon and Phil Spector wrote and recorded Instant Karma on Jan. 26, 1970
-Prince made his television debut on Jan. 26, 1980 on Dick Clark's American Bandstand
-Eddie Van Halen was born Jan. 26, 1957
Peter Green, co-founder of Fleetwood Mac was committed to a mental hospital Jan. 26, 1977 for attacking his accountant who was trying to deliver him a royalty check

On this day: January 25, 1976

Bob Dylan is known for his eccentricities, and on January 25, 1976 30,000 fans got to eaperience one personally.

Dylan held a benefit concert to promote the innocence of boxer Rubin 'Hurricane' Carter who was serving a jail sentence for a shooting that took place more than nine years previously. Dylan was convinced of Hurricane's innocence but many others were not, and turnout for the show was disappointingly low. The benefit only raised $10,000 in spite of several big name surprise guests performing with Dylan including Ringo Starr, Stephen Stills and Stevie Wonder.

Other notable events for January 25:
-Yoko Ono made a $375,000 donation to a retirement center in London named Strawberry Fields on Jan. 25, 1984
-Bobby Brown is arrested for lewdness on Jan. 25, 1989 in Georgia
-Heartbreak Hotel is released by Elvis on Jan 25, 1956 and reaches number 1 in a few months

On this day: January 24, 1969

America changed forever on January 24, 1969, at least for some people, when a little group named Jethro Tull first played in New York. The band got their start by opening for Blood, Sweat and Tears, but soon had many fans of their own.

Jethro Tull was named after an 18th century inventor of agricultural implements, not after a member of the band as many seem to think. And their unique line up, including a flute in many of their most popular songs helped to set them apart from many of the other groups around at the time.

Other notable events for January 24:
-The Beatles signed a management contract with a guy named Brian Epstein on Jan. 24, 1962. Epstein himself never signs the contract
-The singing family the Osmonds play themselves along side Mickey Rooney in The Seven Little Foys which debuts Jan. 24, 1964
-The Clash release their first single in America, I Fought the Law, on Jan. 24, 1979
-Neil Diamond is born Jan. 24, 1941
-John Belushi is born Jan. 24, 1949
-Dr. Robert Moog unveils his new invention, the mini moog, a miniature synthesizer on Jan. 24, 1970

On this day: January 23, 1978

Members of the group Chicago, as well as fans throughout the world were stunned on January 23, when they learned the news that founder, guitarist and vocalist for the group Terry Kath had died.

Kath had inadvertently shot himself in the head when he pulled the trigger of a gun he was unaware was actually loaded while it was pointed at himself.

At the time Chicago was one of the biggest groups around. They had a style that some may have felt was a little on the boring side, but were constantly producing radio hits. In another 12 years, with many new members the group would have nearly 50 hit singles.

I have to wonder if Kath really didn't know the gun was loaded that day, or if the pressures of stardom were getting to be too much for him. Either way it's clear that in the years since his passing, gun accidents, crimes and violence have only gone up. Too often it's reported just like this too, someone was joking around with what they thought was an unloaded gun, and found out too late it actually was. If we can learn one thing from Kath it's to always always always assume any gun is loaded and treat it with caution. Otherwise, the results could be tragic.



Other notable events for January 23:
-Daryl Hall and John Oates earned their first platinum album on Jan. 23, 1892 for their album Private Eye. Afterwards their previous album also begins to climb the charts
-Judy Collins, Pete Seeger, Country Joe McDonald and others were denied the right to sing as part of their testimony in defense of the Chicago Seven on Jan. 23, 1970
-Anita Pointer, of the Pointer Sisters, was born Jan. 23, 1948
-Allen Collins, of Lynyrd Skynyrd, passed away Jan. 23, 1990

On this day: January 22, 1959

The end of January 1959 found Buddy Holly, one of the biggest names in music at that time alone in his apartment recording several demos for songs he was considering recording in the near future.

Sadly, this would not happen as Holly would be killed in a plane crash a little over a week later.

The songs recorded included; Slippin' and Slidin', Wait 'til the Sun Shines, Nellie, Love is Strange, and Dearest. Several of the songs were eventually released thanks to overdubbing by Norman Petty, Holly's producer.

Other notable events for January 22:
-Terry Dene joins the army on Jan 22, 1959. His service lasts only a few weeks as he soon has a nervous breakdown and he is discharged
-Sam Cooke is signed to RCA records on Jan. 22, 1960, it is also his 25th birthday
-Mad Dog and Englishmen, a feature film following Joe Cocker on a European tour debuts on Jan. 22, 1971

On this day: January 21, 1984

January 21, 1984 was a sad day in music history as Jackie Wilson passed away on this day after being in a coma for over eight years.

Wilson had collapsed on stage during a show of a heart attack and would never wake up again. He was just 50 years old.

Although he passed away young, his influence in the world of music cannot be denied. He had a huge impact on artists such as Elvis and Rod Stewart. He also had a string of hits including songs such as; Lonely Teardrops, Night/Doggin' Around, and (Your Love Keep Lifting Me) Higher and Higher.

Posthumously, Wilson enjoyed great success as well with a reissue of one of his biggest albums, Reet Petite topping the U.K. charts during Christmas of 1986

Other notable events for January 21:
-George Harrison married model/actress Patti Boyd on Jan. 21, 1966
-B.B. King donated his record collection to The University of Minnesota on Jan. 21, 1982
-Richie Havens was born Jan. 21, 1941

On this day: January 20, 1965

If Feb. 2 is known as the day the music died (we'll get to that shortly) January 20 is the day rock and roll died. On this day in 1965 Cleveland disk jockey Alan Freed passed away from uraemia after being found guilty of a payola scandal and ordered to pay a heavy fine.

Before scandal broke however, Freed was one of the most celebrated names in rock, credited by many as the person who coined the phrase rock and roll, and more importantly one of the first to play black music for a predominately white audience.

Freed was also known for promoting concerts that included both white and black performers, something that was almost unheard of at that time.

If you happen to find yourself in the Cleveland area these days and are feeling a bit nostalgic, stop by the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum where you can not only see Freed's original studio, but you might be able to talk to people actually working inside it too! Although Freed passed away before his time, he was only 43, his legacy and memory still live on in Cleveland and throughout the country.

Other notable events for January 20:
-The Monkees is first broadcast on British TV on Jan. 20, 1967
-Ozzy Osbourne is hospitalized on Jan. 20, 1982 after biting the head off a bat during a concert
-Jerry Lee Lewis performs at the Grand Ole Opry on Jan. 20, 1973. Lewis was told not to play rock and roll or to cuss, he didn't listen on either account
-Duane Allman born Jan. 20, 1946

On this day: January 19, 1957, 1977 and 1981

January 19 looks like a big day in music history, but it's a bigger day in American history. Historically speaking, at least for the 20th century, President's are inaugurated on January 20, so a huge celebration is held on January 19, often times with some of the biggest names in music preforming for the guests.

On January 19, 1957, Pat Boone, one of the biggest names in music at the time, helped to welcome President Eisenhower to office. Boone was not known for having the best voice in music, but he covered a lot of songs by black artists while still maintaining a squeaky clean image that was much more 'white friendly'.

On January 19, 1977, President Jimmy Carter was welcomed with many top celebrities including; Linda Ronstadt, Loretta Lynn, and Aretha Franklin. Their performances were aired on a special national TV show, one of the first times the American people could see the Inaugural Ball.

On January 19, 1981, former movie star and newly elected President Ronald Reagan was welcomed to the White House by musicians including; Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and Charley Pride. The tradition of popular singers and songwriters welcoming the president continues to this day. Who will welcome our newest president in 2017?

Other notable events for January 19:
-A Bob Dylan concert held Jan. 19, 1974 in Miami Florida caused traffic jams reported to be the biggest since Woodstock
-The Beatles refused an offer of $30 million to reform on Jan. 19, 1976
-Michael Jackson receives his first gold record on Jan. 19, 1980 fir his record Off the Wall
-Phil Everly was born on this day in 1939

On this day: January 18, 1980

There is no middle ground with disco, you either love it or hate it. Personally, I hate it. But, if you were a fan there was no batter place to take in the music than a little hangout called Studio 54 in New York.

Disco lived and breathed in that club, and for years it was the place to get down and boogie. But, in 1980, owners Steve Rubell and Ian Schrager had their last dance and were arrested for tax evasion and fined over $20,000 each.

While this event alone might not have been the final nail in the disco coffin, it was definitely one of them. And soon the movement and music that had be such a big part of so many people's lives was gone.

No matter how you personally feel about disco, you can't deny the impact it has had on culture, as well as other types of music. Without disco laying the groundwork there would probably be no technopop, hip-hop, rap, or many other forms of music.

Other notable events for January 18:
-The Beatles enter the U.S. charts for the first time on Jan. 18, 1964 with I Want to Hold Your Hand
-The Rolling Stones hold a benefit concert in LA on Jan. 18, 1973 for refugees of a Nicaraguan earthquake
-Bad Company is formed on this day in 1974
-The AIDS charity album recorded by Dionne Warwick and Friends hit number 1 on Jan. 18, 1986 and remained there for four weeks

On this day: January 17, 1965

By 1965 the 'bad boys' of rock, although they were still pretty squeaky clean at that point, celebrated their third consecutive number 1 hit with the release of The Last Time.

Not only was this the bands third chart topper, but more importantly, it was the first time a song written by Mick Jagger and Keith Richards was successful. The two previous hits for the Stones, It's All Over Now, and Little Red Rooster, were both previously recorded by other musicians.

The success of this song didn't slow the band down at all, and they would go on to have two more number one hits before their streak ended.

I personally have no issues with musicians covering others songs, but you haven't made it in the business till one of your original songs hits the charts. So, even though the Stones had had previous hits, in my opinion at least, this was really their first true hit.

Other notable events for January 17:
-Don't Knock the Rock, a movie staring several popular rock stars of the day opened on Jan. 17, 1957
-The Doors record Absolutely Live on Jan. 17, 1970
-Highway 51 in Memphis is renamed Elvis Presley Boulevard on Jan. 17, 1972

On this day: January 16, 1970

On January 16, 1970 eight lithographs were stolen from a London art gallery. What does this have to do with music history you might be wondering? Not much, except for the fact that the lithographs were from a little known artist named John Winston 'Ono' Lennon- The Beatle.

The works of art stolen were a series of line drawings and included nude drawings of Lennon himself and his partener Yoko.

Lennon was less than thrilled with the events especially considering he was hoping the drawings would help the world see him as not just a Beatle, but as a serious artist.

Other notable events for January 16:
-Paul McCartney begins his 10 day sentence on Jan. 16, 1980 in a Japanese prison for carrying half of pound of pot into the country
-Ross Bagdasarian, David Sevillle, the creator of the Chipmunks (Alvin, Simon and Theodore) passed away Jan. 16, 1972

On this day: January 15, 1967

 Censorship had a huge victory today in 1967 when The Rolling Stones changed the lyrics of one of their most popular songs to be 'tv friendly' for the Ed Sullivan Show.

The Stones changed the now iconic let's spend the night together, to let's spend some time together. Remember, back then the idea of a man and a woman, presumably not married spending the night together was shocking for many people.

Jagger and the boys were not too pleased with the change, but went along with it any way. For the most part. Every time Jagger sang the new lyric he included an obvious eye roll to let everyone in the audience know, this wasn't what he really meant.

The Ed Sullivan Show has had many such issues throughout the years, and I'm sure many of them will be discussed at some point during this blog. But what's really important here is the issue of censorship. Music is a way we can express ourselves, and while not everyone may agree with what I have to say, I do have the right to say it, here in the blog, or in a song if I so  choose. And the fact that Sullivan and company made the Stones change their song, no matter how shocking isn't right. If there was that much of an issue with the song, Sullivan should have told them to sing something else, or come up with a different solution. But, silencing a voice is never the right option in my opinion

Other notable events for January 15:
-The Everly Brothers appear for the first time on TV on Jan. 15, 1958 when they are on the Perry Como Show
-I Can't Explain/Bald Headed Woman, the first single by The Who is released on Jan. 15, 1965
-On Jan. 15, 1972 American Pie (My personal favorite song ever!) topped the charts
-Ronnie Van Zandt was born on Jan.15, 1949

On this day: January 14, 1967

Hippies had their day in the sun on January 14, 1967 when San Francisco youth Tuned In, Turned On, and Dropped Out at the first ever Human Be-In.

The event took place at 1:15 at the Polo Field at Golden Gate Park, and was free for all to attend.

Some of the attractions included, Timothy Leary, Allen Ginsberg and Dick Gregory, also music by The Grateful Dead, Jefferson Airplane and Quicksilver Messenger Service. Of course, the main attraction was the drugs that were offered to help participants expand their minds and reach new places.

Soon after, all over the country, Human Be-In's became a part of the youth culture, and a way for people to come together and experience the peace and love of the late 60's

Other notable events for January 14:
-Diana Ross played her last show with the Supremes before embarking as a solo artist on Jan. 14, 1970
-Three Dog night earned their 16th, and last, gold disk for their album Joy to the World- Their Greatest Hits, on Jan. 14, 1975
-Relax by Frankie Goes to Hollywood is censored on the BBC for overtly obscene lyrics, on Jan. 14 1984. The song had already been played dozens of times before the ban
-Band Aid's Do They Know it's Christmas becomes the biggest selling single in the U.K. on this day in 1985, beating out the previous single Mull of Kintyre by Paul McCartney

On this day: January 13, 1973

Today in 1973 guitar hero Eric Clapton made his long awaited and much anticipated return to the stage at London's Rainbow Theater.

Clapton had left the limelight for several reasons, including drug dependency, alcohol abuse and emotional problems. Thankfully, Clapton was able to overcome his problems, and came back better than ever, some might argue.

Many friends helped Clapton along the way to recovery including; Pete Townshend, Ric Grech, Steve Winwood, jim Capaldi and others.

The concert was a huge success, and the album that resulted from the show was as well.

Stories of celebrities and their drug problems are all too common, but whenever someone is able to over come these issues and get back on the right track it's a good thing. Too many people leave this world too soon because of drug problems. And too many celebrities make drugs look appealing to young people making them want to try them out. the media needs to focus more on stories like this one, and show people drugs aren't the answer, but even if you do go down that road, it doesn't mean you can't come back again.

Other notable events for January 13:
-The Grateful Dead, Starship, and the Beach Boys headlined a concert on Jan. 13, 1980 to benefit victims of the Khmer Rouge in Kampuchea
-Elvis Presley returned to a Memphis recording studio for the first time on Jan. 13, 1969, since signing with RCA records in 1955
-Fred White, Earth Wind and Fire, was born on this day in 1955

On this day: January 12, 1981

The White House got a lot cooler on this day in 1981, when 800 albums were donated to the record library.

Included in the donation were albums such as; Alive, by Kiss, Blonde on Blonde, by Bob Dylan, and Never Mind the Bollocks, by The Sex Pistols.

Current President Ronald Reagan was surprisingly quiet on the donation, considering his own history in pop culture one would think he would have a greater opinion on the music that was given to him.

Although never officially stated, I like to think Reagan would be a rock fan to the core. Listening to The Beatles, Neil Young and maybe even getting into some later stuff like Journey or Kansas. I can see him sitting in the Oval Office, looking over documents that need his approval and just jamming out to Don't Stop Believing.

Other notable events for January 12:
-Please Please Me is released on Jan. 12, 1963
-Rumors of Michael Jackson purchasing Motown Records fly on Jan. 12, 1987. The only holdup according to one source was the $75 million asking price

On this day: January 11, 1963

Music would change forever on January 11, 1963 when the Whiskey A-Go-Go first opened it's doors on the Sunset Strip in Hollywood.

The club soon became the place for the would bes and wannabes  to see and be seen, and countless acts got their start on that stage. The club, which is still a rock haven to this day was the first of its kind in California at that time.

Other notable events for January 11:
 -Ring of Fire becomes the first country album to top the U.S. charts on Jan. 11, 1964
-So Emotional becomes Whitney Houston's sixth consecutive number one hit on Jan. 11, 1988
-Vicky Peterson, the Bangles, was born on this day in 1960

R.I.P. David Bowie

Woke up to some very sad news this morning when I learned that David Bowie had passed away at the age of 69.

Although personally, I was never a huge fan of Bowie, I still think he was a remarkable and talented musician who will be missed by everyone who knew and loved him. His contribution to music can't be denied, and will go on to influence countless more people for generations to come.

The reported cause of his death is cancer, a disease that takes too many people too soon. While cancer research has come a long way over the years, there is still a long way to go. We need a cure for this horrible disease that doesn't discriminate, and has probably affected, in one way or another, just about everyone on this planet.

If every person morning the loss of Bowie today could give just a few dollars to cancer research, imagine what could be done. Maybe the next generation, or the generation after that won't have to live in a world where they know the horrors of cancer. Maybe they will live in a world of hope.

If you would like to donate to cancer research please consider this website; http://www.cancerresearch.org/. Unlike some organizations, which are still a wonderful place to donate if you wish, 85 to 90 cents from every dollar donated goes towards researching and finding a cure for cancer.

On this day: January 10, 1976

The world said goodbye to a legend on this day in 1979 as Howlin' Wolf howled his last note and passed away following brain surgery, he was 65. 

Most people don't know much about Howlin' Wolf, if they know him at all, but more than likely you've heard a cover of one of this songs, as many huge groups have recorded his music. Just a few include; Little Red Rooster, covered by The Rolling Stones, Spoonful, covered by Cream, Back Door Man, covered by The Doors, and How Many More Times, covered by Led Zeppelin. 

Wolf had a bigger impact though than just having other people cover his music. He formed one of the first all electric bands ever, and it's even more impressive that he was able to claim so much success when you consider he was African American, and the height of his popularity was the 1940's and 1950's. 

The influence of Howlin' Wolf can't be denied, and while it's sad he was taken away before his time, at least he made the most of his time while he was here. 

Other notable events for January 10:

-Loretta Lynn marries her husband on Jan. 10, 1948, she was just 13 years old

-Great Balls of Fire becomes the first number 1 hit for Jerry Lee Lewis on Jan. 10, 1958

-Rod Stewart was born Jan. 10, 1945

On this day: January 9, 1979

Charity concerts are a pretty common thing these days. But, back in 1979 they were a new concept altogether. So when UNICEF held their Music for UNICEF concert on this day in 1979, it was history in the making. 

Many of the biggest music stars of the day were involved in the concert including; Rod Stewart, ABBA, Donna Summer, John Denver, The Bee Gees, and more. 

UNICEF raised hundreds of thousands of dollars from the concert alone, which was held in New York City, but in addition to the funds raised every star that was involved in the event also donated the copyright fees associated with one of their songs, giving the charity millions more. 

This is the kind of story that I love to hear about. A few days ago I was talking about how The Rolling Stones have made so much money, I don't understand why they still insist on charging so much for their concerts. But, this group of musicians understood there are people in this world who need money much more than they do, and were willing to sacrifice a portion of their income just to help these people. 

I really wish more celebrities would do things like this, and that it would be reported on as well. I mean I really don't care who's relationship is on the rocks, or which Hollywood A-lister is about to go into rehab. But, I would love to read a story about someone who decided to donate even just a small percentage of their yearly income to help those less fortunate. And really when you think about how much money these people make, I don't think this is an unreasonable thing. 

UNICEF is a longstanding charity which helps children in developing worlds. 90 percent of every dollar donated goes directly to the children, something not many charities can claim, and of course all donations are tax deductible. If you would like to donate, follow this link; https://www.unicefusa.org/donate/help-save-childrens-lives/29091?utm_campaign=2015_eoy&utm_medium=cpc&utm_source=google&ms=cpc_dig_2015_eoy_2015_google&initialms=cpc_dig_2015_eoy_2015_google&utm_content=brand

Other notable events for January 9:

-The Beatles dominate the charts on Jan. 9, 1965 with three top 10 albums; Beatles '65, A Hard Days Night, and The Beatles' Story

-Lou Reed marries an unknown waitress on Jan. 9, 1973

-Rawhide premiers on this day in 1959 staring an unknown Clint Eastwood

-Joan Baez was born on this day in 1941

On this day: January 8, 1960

On this day in 1960, Eddie Cochran would enter the studio and record for the last time. Cochran and his band mates recorded several songs on the day, but the most famous of all was a track called Three Steps to Heaven. 

Just three short months later, Cochran would be killed in car crash, his song would later go on to hit number one on the U.K. charts. 

Other notable events for January 8:

-The King of rock and roll is honored on this day in 1985 with a commemorative postage stamp

-Steve Clark, Def Leppard, passed away on Jan. 8, 1991 the latest in a string of tragedies for the band

-Johnny Cash Parkway is debuted in Hendersonville, Tennessee on Jan. 8, 1982

On this day: January 7, 1955

This day might seem like it doesn't have very much significance in the world of Rock and Roll, but it may in fact be one of the most important days ever. On this day in 1955 Rock Around the Clock by Bill Haley debuts on the U.K. charts.

Initially the song didn't do very well, until it was featured during the opening credits of a move called Blackboard Jungle. After getting prominent attention from the movie the song shot to number one and became one of the first songs to bring rock and roll to mainstream America.

While this may seem like a minor event, if you think about it, without the success of this song, we probably wouldn't have had groups like The Beatles, or the Rolling Stones, and without those groups music today would be entirely different.

Other notable events for January 7:
-Hugh Cornwell is arrested on Jan. 7, 1980, his 31st birthday, for possession of heroin, cocaine and cannabis
-Fans of Led Zeppelin riot in Boston while waiting for a box office to open so they could purchase tickets to an upcoming show on Jan. 7, 1975. The Riot cost more than $30,000 in damages and the show was cancelled
-Gibson Guitars registered a patent for their iconic Flying V model Jan. 7, 1958
-Paul Revere, of Paul Revere and the Raiders, was born on Jan. 7, 1942 or 1946

On this day: January 6, 1964 and 1990

January 6 is a big day for The Rolling Stones. On this day in 1964, the Stones began their first headlining tour in Harrow, a north London suburb.

Joining them on the tour were; The Ronettes, a girl group from the U.S. created by Phil Spector, and Marty Wilde, a 50's rocker and father of future hit maker Kim Wilde.

Needless to say the tour was a huge success and launched the band to stardom.

On this day in 1990, figures were released for the most recent Rolling Stones tour, and it was revealed the tour grossed over $100,000 million. The most any rock band had ever made in one tour.

The self proclaimed greatest rock band had timed the tour to coincide with the release of their latest album, Steel Wheels, and marked the return to live work for the band.

Since that time, the Stones have not shown any signs of slowing down. They still perform on a regular basis and even release new music. No matter what your personal feelings are on this band, you can't deny the influence they have had or the fact that they are one of the few groups around with true staying power.

This brings up an interesting point for me though. While I'm a huge fan of The Rolling Stones and would love to see them in concert, I just can't afford the insane ticket prices. This band has been around for over 50 years, and more than 20 years ago made over $100,000 million from one tour alone. Do they really need to be charging such a high ticket price still? Really, what more do they need? What is all this money buying them? Are they doing anything that will benefit the world with it?

At this point, I think (I wish!) they would charge a modest amount to allow everyone the opportunity to see them. They could still easily sell out arenas and have a massively successful tour, while also allowing the average fan a chance to see them live, not just those who make the most money. I know this will never happen, but I can dream!

Other notable events for January 6:
-EMI drops The Sex Pistols just weeks after signing them on Jan. 6, 1977 due to discontent from staff, and threat of a strike about producing Anarchy in the UK.
-Elvis performs on the Ed Sullivan for his seventh and final time on Jan. 6, 1957 due to his controversial dancing, the King was only shown from the waste up.
-Earl Scruggs born Jan. 6, 1924.
-Syd Barrett born Jan. 6, 1946.
-Malcolm Young born Jan. 6, 1953.

On this day: January 5, 1976

A sad day in the history of The Beatles, as on this day in 1976 Mal Evans, close friend and assistant general manager for the group was killed by the LAPD.

After the police were called to Evans' home for a domestic dispute Evans refused to put down a gun he had in his possession and was killed. It was later discovered the gun was unloaded.

Evans had known The Beatles since 1961 when he met them while working as a bouncer at a club. Evans acted as body guard for all four Beatles at different times, had bit parts in several Beatles movies and was even credited with help to write a song that was recorded by Ringo.

It's sad that a minor altercation had to have such a tragic end, and it's even more sad that this type of event seems too common place today. We have learned nothing from the mistakes of those that came before us, and until we do, things will only remain the same.

Other notable events for January 5:
-The first transmission of an FM radio signal was broadcast on Jan. 5, 1940. It would be another year before the first public broadcasts were made, and only to a few radios that were capable of receiving the signal.
-The Sex Pistols make their U.S. debut on Jan. 5, 1978.
-Saturday Night Fever skyrockets the career of John Travolta and defines disco and the soundtrack sells it's 25 millionth copy on Jan. 5, 1979.

On this day: January 4, 1954

On this day in 1954 a young truck driver working for Crown Electric Co. stopped by a little recording studio in Memphis Tennessee. He recorded two songs for a $4 fee and gave them to his mother. Why should we care about this? Because the man's name was Elvis Presley.

Within two years he would become the biggest rock and roll star the world had seen up to that point.

Sam Phillips, who had set up the small recording studio as a side project for Sun Records, was intrigued when he heard Presley's mix of hillbilly and blues in what would later become his iconic sound. Phillips knew he had something special right away, and immediately put Presley in Sun Records to start recording.

Other notable events for January 4:
-Billboard publishes the first ever record sales chart Jan. 4, 1936. Stop! Look! Listen! is the first number one single.
-Peter Green, founder of Fleetwood Mac marries Jane Samuel on Jan. 4, 1978.
-Also on Jan. 4, 1978 Ozzy Osborne rejoined Black Sabbath, replacing his own replacement.
-Michael Stipe (R.E.M.) born Jan. 4, 1960.
-Charles Mingus, jazz legend, dies Jan. 4, 1979.

On this day: January 3, 1967

In 1967 the Vietnam War was in full swing. And so was the draft. Countless young men were called to serve their country, and did so, either willingly or not so willingly, because they felt they had to. Others, felt the was was unjust and they refused to fight in something they didn't believe in, especially when it wasn't their choice to go.

One of these men, who refused to fight after being drafted was none other than Carl Wilson. You might have heard of the band he was in, it was called The Beach Boys.

Wilson was called to duty on this day in 1967, but turned the offer down. His decision set off a huge legal battle that lasted more than five years. In the end, Wilson was cleared of all charges.

Evading the draft was something many young men did at this time, Wilson was far from alone in his actions, but because of his fame and notoriety, his was a little more publicized than others.

Is the draft right or wrong? It's hard to say. While I don't think it's right to force someone to fight in a war they don't believe in, on the other hand who is going to defend our country if no one signs up willingly.

It's also important to note that I think a line can easily be drawn from the draft to just about all the protest music of the 60's and 70's. Songs I and countless others have loved for years. Today, we're fighting another war that is just as controversial, if not more so, but protest music is nonexistent. Many people don't believe in the war we're fighting today, but because there is no danger in being drafted to serve, there's no reason to protest, through music or any thing else. 

Other notable events for January 3:
-Bob Dylan and The Band begin a massive 39 date tour on Jan. 3, 1974, over 6 million people vie for just 660,000 tickets. Dylan is unmoved by the response
-The Psychedelic Shop is opened on Haight Street in San Francisco Jan. 3 1966. The shop sells artifacts of the freak and drug culture that will soon explode in this area
-George Martin born Jan. 3, 1926
-Stephen Still born Jan. 3, 1945
-John Paul Jones born Jan. 3, 1946 

On this day: January 2, 1979

1979 was not off to such a great start for Sid Vicious, bassist for The Sex Pistols, as a trial began on the second day of the new year to determine if he was in fact guilty of murdering his girlfriend, Nancy Spungen.

On October 20, 1978, the body of Spungen was found in a hotel room of The Chelsea Hotel, where she and Vicious were living. She had been stabbed in the stomach multiple times. Vicious was arrested the same day, and charged with the murder. The trial, which began on this day in 1979, would never reach a verdict as Vicious would be found dead of a heroin overdose soon after. No one else was ever considered as a suspect.

There are many questions that still arise over Spungen's death, such as; the fact that $24,000 was also missing from the room, Vicious was reportedly passed out at the time of the murder, and Spungen was known for causing trouble and making enemies wherever she went. Who really killed her that night? We may never know.

Other notable events for January 2:
-An entire shipment of Two Virgins, the new John Lennon and Yoko Ono album is seized Jan. 2, 1968 from Newark Airport due to the controversial art on the album cover, a fully nude photo of Lennon and Ono
-Georgia State Department of Corrections honors the Allman Brothers Band, Jan. 2, 1973, naming them the Outstanding Community Organization of the Year
-Tex Ritter, the Singing Cowboy, dies Jan. 2, 1978
-Chick Churchill, Ten Years After, is born Jan. 2, 1942

On this day: January 1, 1962

Happy New Year to everyone! Well, except maybe the Beatles who were turned down on this day in history by Dick Rowe of Decca Records in what will go down in history as one of the worst mistakes ever made.

The Beatles weren't down for long, it was just a few short months later that they were signed with producer George Martin at EMI's Parlophone label and history was made.

The audition was ill fated from the beginning, with the group not arriving in London until after 10 p.m. on New Year's Eve 1961 due to their driver getting lost several times. The audition took about an hour and the group, with original drummer Pete Best, performed a total of 15 songs, including; Money (That's What I Want), Till There Was You, To Know Her is to Love Her, and others. In the end the group was passed on because "guitar groups are on the out" and "the Beatles have no future in show business".

In the end, it was probably for the best that the Beatles weren't signed be Decca. But, I bet Rowe kicked himself for the rest of his life for letting this group of guys get away from him.

Other notable events for January 1:
-Hank Williams passed away Jan. 1, 1953 on his way to a show in Canton, Ohio
-Country Joe McDonald born Jan. 1, 1942
-Johnny Cash plays his first, of many, free concerts for the inmates of San Quentin Prison Jan. 1, 1960
-The Rolling Stones, Dusty Springfield, and The Dave Clark Five all appear on the primer episode of Top of the Pops, a BBC show similar to the Ed Sullivan Show, Jan. 1, 1964