No matter what music you’re enjoying today, March 3 has played a big role in shaping your favorite songs and artists. Here are some key moments in rock history that happened on this day.
1972: Elton John released “Rocket Man,” which is now one of his most famous songs, alongside “Candle in the Wind.”
1973: Slade scored their fourth UK No. 1 single with “Cum On Feel The Noize.” The song topped charts in several European countries and became even more popular when Quiet Riot covered it a decade later.
1979: The Bee Gees also hit No. 1 in the UK with “Tragedy,” which later topped the US charts.
1981: U2 kicked off their first major U.S. tour, playing 60 shows in clubs across the country.
Cultural milestones also made waves on March 3. In 1966, Buffalo Springfield formed in Los Angeles, with members like Neil Young and Stephen Stills. They debuted live a month later. In 1989, Madonna’s “Like a Prayer” video premiered on MTV, stirring up controversy. Fast forward to 2017, when Nickelback’s album “All the Right Reasons” was certified diamond in the U.S. for selling 10 million copies.
Notable performances include Van Halen opening for Journey in 1978 during their world tour. In 1986, Metallica released “Master of Puppets,” their first gold record.
The industry has faced challenges too. In 1967, Rod Stewart performed with the Jeff Beck Group during a tough tour. In 1980, Sotheby’s held its first rock memorabilia auction, featuring signed Beatles bills. Sadly, in 2012, guitarist Ronnie Montrose passed away at 64.
