Jan. 18 is a significant day in music history. It marks The Beatles’ first appearance on American charts and the birth of Bad Company. However, it also brought the sad news of losing a rock icon. Here’s a look at some major events that happened on this day in rock history.
1964: The Beatles made their U.S. chart debut with “I Want to Hold Your Hand,” entering at No. 45 on the Billboard Hot 100. Just two weeks later, it hit No. 1, kicking off an incredible run of seven No. 1 singles in one year.
1974: Paul Rodgers and Simon Kirke, former members of Free, teamed up with Mick Ralphs from Mott the Hoople and Boz Burrell of King Crimson to form Bad Company. This supergroup has sold over 40 million records worldwide and was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame last year.
1989: Stevie Wonder became the youngest living inductee into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. He was inducted by Paul Simon and shared the honor with other legends like The Rolling Stones and The Temptations.
2016: Glenn Frey, founding member and co-lead singer of the Eagles, passed away from health issues. He co-founded the band with Don Henley in the early 1970s and wrote many of their hits, including “New Kid in Town” and “Take It Easy.”
1984: Van Halen kicked off their massive 1984 Tour in Jacksonville, Florida, featuring 101 shows.
1991: The second Rock in Rio festival took place in Brazil, featuring acts like Guns N’ Roses, Prince, and Judas Priest. The event was watched by over half a billion people worldwide.
From The Beatles making waves in America to legendary performances in Brazil, Jan. 18 has seen some unforgettable moments in rock history.
