1965, Tom Jones was at number one on the singles chart with "It's Not Unusual." 1965, The Who go into IBC Studios, London to record their first album. Songs known to be recorded on this date are Pete Townshend's "You're Gonna Know Me" (later retitled "Out In The Street"), plus covers of James Brown's "Please Please Please" and "I Don't Mind," Bo Diddley's "I'm A Man," Martha … [Read more...] about Today in Rock History – March 11
James Brown
Today in Rock History – February 1
1964, The Beatles started a seven week run at number one on the US singles chart with "I Want To Hold Your Hand," the first US chart topper by a UK act since The Tornadoes "Telstar" in 1962 and the first of three consecutive number ones from the group. 1964, Peter, Paul & Mary performed at the Civic Center in Charleston, West Virginia. 1965, James Brown recorded … [Read more...] about Today in Rock History – February 1
Today in Rock History – December 25
1964, The Beatles Christmas Day Concert took place at the Hammersmith Odeon in London. The evening's events opened with The Mike Cotton Sound's performance of Georgie Fame's current single "Yeh Yeh," before singer Michael Haslam joined them to sing "Scarlet Ribbons." Next, The Yardbirds took to the stage followed by a pantomime sketch featuring The Beatles dressed as Antarctic … [Read more...] about Today in Rock History – December 25
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
Today in Rock History – October 3
1967, American singer, songwriter Woody Guthrie died after suffering from Huntington's Chorea disease. Guthrie was a major influence on Bob Dylan and American folk music. The '70s film Bound For Glory is based on his life. His best-known song is "This Land Is Your Land," which is regularly sung in American schools. 1967, James Brown played two shows at the Royal Albert Hall … [Read more...] about Today in Rock History – October 3