1964, During a US tour Beach Boy Brian Wilson had a nervous breakdown during a flight from Los Angeles to Houston. Wilson left the band to concentrate on writing and producing. Glen Campbell replaced Wilson for the bands live shows. 1964, Radio London, one of England’s first offshore “pirate” radio stations, begins broadcasting. Ella Fitzgerald’s recording of “Can’t Buy Me … [Read more...] about Today in Rock History – December 23
Hawkwind
Today in Rock History – December 22
1966, Pink Floyd played the first of of 11 gigs at The Marquee Club. They had appeared there earlier in the year, but only as a support act. 1967, The Jimi Hendrix Experience, Pink Floyd, The Who, Keith West and Tomorrow, Eric Burdon & The Animals, 1984 (featuring future Queen guitarist Brian May) and Soft Machine all appeared at The Olympia, London at an all night … [Read more...] about Today in Rock History – December 22
Today in Rock History – December 17
1963, James Carroll at WWDC in Washington, DC, became the first disc jockey to broadcast a Beatles record on American radio. Carroll played "I Want To Hold Your Hand," which he had obtained from his stewardess girlfriend, who brought the single back from the UK. Due to listener demand, the song was played daily, every hour. Since it hadn't been released yet in the States, … [Read more...] about Today in Rock History – December 17
Today in Rock History – December 16
1965, Released as a double A-side The Beatles "Day Tripper / We Can Work It Out," became their ninth UK number one, and their third Christmas chart topper in a row. The single was a US number one in January 1966. 1966, Pink Floyd appeared at a prohibition themed dance, the AA Students Christmas Carnival, held at The Architects Association, Bedford Square, London. 1966, … [Read more...] about Today in Rock History – December 16
Today in Rock History – December 11
1964, Soul singer Sam Cooke was shot dead at the Hacienda Motel in Los Angeles, California. Bertha Franklin, manager of the motel, told police that she shot and killed Cooke in self-defense because he had attacked her. Police found Cooke's body in Franklin's apartment-office, clad only in a sports jacket and shoes, but no shirt, pants or underwear. The shooting was ultimately … [Read more...] about Today in Rock History – December 11
