On February 21, music took center stage as several women received awards, pop stars were celebrated on TV, concerts lit up the night, and artists spoke out for justice.
Breakthrough Hits and Milestones
Many awards were given on this day. In 1964, The Rolling Stones released their version of Buddy Holly’s song, marking their U.S. debut with the album *England’s Newest Hit Makers*. Although it didn’t make the Top 40 in the U.S., it hit No. 3 in the U.K., becoming their first Top 10 hit there. In 1975, David Bowie released a single that peaked at No. 18 in the U.K. and No. 28 on the Billboard 200, making it his second-highest-charting single in the U.S. at that time. Fast forward to 2012, Adele won British Female Solo Artist and British Album of the Year at the Brit Awards for her album *21*, featuring hits like “Rolling in the Deep.” In 2015, Bruno Mars and Mark Ronson’s “Uptown Funk” topped the Billboard Hot 100 for 13 weeks. By 2018, Dua Lipa took home the British Female Solo Artist award, thanking women artists for their inspiration.
Cultural Milestones
February 21 also marks significant moments in music history. In 1933, Nina Simone was born, known for addressing social issues in her songs. In 1958, Jake Burns, co-founder of Stiff Little Fingers, was born in Belfast. He later formed bands to raise money for charity. In 2001, Shakira won her first Grammy for Best Latin Pop Album with *MTV Unplugged*. In 2011, Lady Gaga filmed a show during The Monster Ball Tour, sharing it in a fan-friendly style.
