Are you ready to learn some stuff? It’s April 16th and here’s what happened Today in Rock History!
Starting it off as always with releases we have, The Battle at Garden’s Gate from Greta Van Fleet in 2021, The Rolling Stone’s self-titled debut in 1964, Evil Empire from Rage Against the Machine in 1996 and Temple of the Dog’s one and only album which was released in 1991.
With Chris Cornell on the mind, in 2010, Soundgarden reunite and played their first show 13 years after their breakup. The show took place at the Showbox in Seattle, Washington.
In 1993, David Lee Roth was arrested in NYC’s Washington Square Park for allegedly purchasing just $10 worth of pot
One birthday today and that belongs to Gerry Rafferty of Stealers Wheel. But you may know him more for his solo work. CUE THE SAX!
In 1974, Queen made their live debut in the U.S. at Regis College in Denver, CO. Supporting Mott the Hoople, Queen’s time on tour was cut short as guitarist Brian May caught hepatitis a month later.
In 1969, Elektra Records drop the MC5 from their label after the band took out an ad in a Detroit paper that included not only the company logo, but also the words “F**k Hudsons”. The ad was to protest the Hudsons department stores that refused to stock the band’s albums.
In 1992, Nirvana appeared on the cover of Rolling Stone magazine for the first time. Frontman Kurt Cobain can be seen wearing a T-shirt saying, “Corporate Magazines Still Suck”.
Speaking of Kurt Cobain, in 1994 during their appearance on SNL, Pearl Jam paid tribute to their fallen grunge brother who was found dead just a week prior. As the show went off the air, singer Eddie Vedder opened his jacket to reveal a ‘K’ written on his T-shirt.
Another release that I forgot to mention was the 1998 film SLC Punk!, about a college grad/punk named Stevo living in Salt Lake City during the 1980s. Although it was received mixed reviews when it was released, it has garnered a cult following and features a killer punk soundtrack.
In 1972, Electric Light Orchestra made their live debut when they performed at The Fox and Greyhound in London. After a few lineup changes, the band would be known as ELO and forever change music.
And finally, at the 38th Grammy Awards in 1996, all four original members of KISS appear in full makeup and gear. This would be the first time since 1980 that all four members appeared on stage together in full makeup. That same year they would begin a reunion tour.
This has been Today in Rock History! Keep on Rocking, keep on Rolling! Check back tomorrow for your next rock history lesson!
