January 17th marks a significant day in rock history with pivotal events across different years. In 1981, the formation of Mötley Crüe, a monumental moment in heavy metal, occurred. The band was initiated by bass guitarist Nikki Sixx and drummer Tommy Lee. Their lineup was later completed with the addition of guitarist Bob “Mick Mars” Deal and singer Vince Neil, setting the stage for their future success in the rock scene.
Fast forward to 1987, New Jersey’s own Bon Jovi began a remarkable seven-week reign at the top of the U.S. charts with their third studio album, “Slippery When Wet.” This album was a commercial triumph and featured iconic #1 hits like “You Give Love a Bad Name” and “Livin’ on a Prayer,” songs that would become anthems for a generation and solidify Bon Jovi’s place in rock history.
In 1996, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inducted a group of distinguished artists: David Bowie, Jefferson Airplane, The Velvet Underground, and Pink Floyd. Each of these artists had made indelible contributions to the world of music, leaving a legacy that has influenced countless musicians and fans alike. This induction ceremony was a testament to their lasting impact on the rock genre and music as a whole.
- 1964: The Rolling Stones released their first EP, which included tracks like “You Better Move On” and “Poison Ivy.” This was a notable early release in their career.
- 2001: Jason Newsted left Metallica after a decade of being the band’s bassist, marking a significant change in the band’s lineup.
- 2003: A rare recording featuring John Lennon and Mick Jagger was auctioned in London. This 1974 record, never released due to label differences, sold for around 2,300 dollars.
- 1976: Barry Manilow topped the charts with “I Write the Songs,” his second number-one song.
- 1998: Australian duo Savage Garden reached number one on the singles chart with “Truly Madly Deeply,” beginning a two-week run at the top.
- 2005: A benefit concert for the victims of the Asian tsunami featured performances by members of Pearl Jam, Foo Fighters, Beck, Queens of the Stone Age, and Tenacious D.
Other notable events on January 17th in rock history include:
- 1966: Simon & Garfunkel released their second studio album, “Sounds of Silence.”
- 1967: John Lennon, while writing “A Day in the Life,” was inspired by a news article about potholes in Blackburn, Lancashire.
- 1969: Elton John released his second single, “Lady Samantha,” and Aretha Franklin released her album “Soul ’69.”
- 1970: The Doors performed at the Felt Forum in New York City, with recordings from these shows later appearing on their live album.
- 1972: Paul Simon released “Mother and Child Reunion,” a significant single from his second solo album.
- 1974: Joni Mitchell’s album “Court and Spark” and Bob Dylan’s “Planet Waves” were released.
- 1975: Queen released “Now I’m Here,” and Blondie performed at New York’s CBGB club for the first time.
- 1977: Glen Campbell released his cover of “Southern Nights.”
- 1978: Scottish band Simple Minds played their first proper gig in Glasgow.
- 1981: Badfinger released their album “Say No More.”
- 1991: Sting’s album “The Soul Cages” was released.
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