Are you ready for your daily dose of rock history? You’re in the right place! Here’s a look at hit songs, memorable performances, and cultural events from May 7 that made waves in the rock industry.
1966: The Mamas and the Papas’ song “Monday, Monday” hit No. 1 on the US Billboard Hot 100, where it stayed for three weeks. This track was part of their debut album, If You Can Believe Your Eyes and Ears, and remains their only US chart-topper.
1977: The Eagles reached the No. 1 spot on the Billboard Hot 100 with “Hotel California,” marking their third song to achieve this. It’s the title track from their fifth album of original material.
2016: Following his tragic death on April 21, Prince dominated the US Billboard 200 albums chart, holding the top two spots with The Very Best of Prince at No. 1 and the Purple Rain soundtrack at No. 2. His impressive album sales were partly due to his refusal to allow streaming of his music.
2022: With their fourth studio album, Ribbon Around the Bomb, Blossoms scored their third consecutive No. 1 album in the UK. They continued their success with their fifth album also reaching the top.
Cultural milestones from May 7 include the birth of Bill Kreutzmann Jr. in 1946, a founding member of the Grateful Dead. In 1968, Elton John changed his name from Reginald Dwight, inspired by his bandmates. In 1998, Beck performed at the reopening of the Santa Monica Museum of Art, showcasing his collaborative works.
Memorable performances from the 1960s include Jimi Hendrix at the Saville Theatre in 1967 and Aretha Franklin recording a live album in 1968 at the Olympia Theatre in Paris.
