From chart-topping hits to unforgettable performances, February 28 is a day filled with rock music trivia. Here are some key moments that shaped the genre.
1970: Simon & Garfunkel reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 with “Bridge Over Troubled Water.” It held the top spot for six weeks, making it the longest-running No. 1 single of that year.
1983: U2 topped the U.K. charts for the first time with their album *War*, beating Michael Jackson’s *Thriller*. This was also U2’s first album to be certified gold in the U.S.
1984: Michael Jackson set a record by winning eight GRAMMYs in one night, including Album of the Year for *Thriller*.
Cultural milestones also marked this date. 1942: Brian Jones, founding member of The Rolling Stones, was born. He was later fired from the band and died at 27.
1970: Led Zeppelin had to perform in Denmark under the name The Nobs due to a legal threat from a relative of the airship designer.
1985: David Byron, frontman of Uriah Heep, passed away from alcohol-related issues.
2007: The Doors received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, with members Ray Manzarek and Robby Krieger attending.
2025: David Johansen, lead singer of the New York Dolls, died at 75. He influenced many musicians over his career.
Notable performances include 1994: Eric Clapton played his 100th solo show at the Royal Albert Hall.
2010: Neil Young performed “Long May You Run” at the Vancouver Winter Olympics closing ceremony.
These events have left a lasting impact on the rock music scene.
