Today in Rock History: April 9
April 9 holds significance in the world of rock music, as it marks the coming together or splitting of bands, the release of hit songs, and other pivotal events that have shaped the genre over the years. Let’s take a look at some historic moments in rock ‘n’ roll that have occurred on this date.
Breakthrough Hits and Milestones:
On April 9, various hit songs made their mark on the music scene:
In 1966, the Righteous Brothers topped the charts with “(You’re My) Soul and Inspiration,” their second No. 1 hit following the success of “You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feelin'” in 1965.
In 1977, ABBA reached the top spot on the Billboard Hot 100 with “Dancing Queen,” their only song to achieve this feat in the U.S.
Cultural Milestones:
April 9 also saw the birth of Gerard Way in 1977, known for his role as the co-founder and lead singer of My Chemical Romance. Way’s creativity extended beyond music, as he penned the comic book series, The Umbrella Academy, which later inspired a Netflix series.
In 1997, after a long run, Soundgarden announced their breakup, citing tour exhaustion as one of the reasons for disbanding.
Notable Recordings and Performances:
Significant rock moments in history on April 9 include:
In 1973, Queen performed their first show under the EMI record label at the Marquee Club in London, a milestone in their career.
In 1994, Pantera’s debut album, Far Beyond Driven, debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 200 chart, setting a precedent as the heaviest album to achieve this ranking.
Industry Changes and Challenges:
On April 9, internal dynamics within rock bands led to adjustments and obstacles:
In 1965, Bruce Johnston transitioned from a temporary fill-in for Brian Wilson to an official touring member of the Beach Boys, shaping the band’s lineup until 1972 and rejoining in 1978 after a brief solo stint.
In 2018, Fleetwood Mac announced that Lindsey Buckingham would not be part of their upcoming tour, a decision that marked a change in the band’s lineup after many years of collaboration with Stevie Nicks.
Understanding the history and evolution of rock music can deepen one’s appreciation for the genre and its artists. Exploring the stories behind favorite bands and songs can enhance the enjoyment of listening to rock music on April 9 and beyond.