Historic moments on May 8 have greatly shaped the rock ‘n’ roll genre. This day has seen hit songs, chart-topping records, and memorable performances that have influenced the rock industry. Here are some key facts from this day in rock history.
1970: The Beatles released their final studio album, Let It Be, just weeks after their breakup. The film showcasing their famous rooftop concert followed shortly after.
1971: The Rolling Stones’ ninth studio album, Sticky Fingers, hit No. 1 on the UK albums chart, where it stayed for five weeks. It also topped the US Billboard 200 a couple of weeks later, on May 22, for four weeks.
1982: Paul McCartney’s fifth solo album, Tug of War, reached No. 1 in the UK. This was McCartney’s 11th album after The Beatles and the first after his band, Wings, disbanded.
1993: Aerosmith topped the Billboard 200 with their 11th studio album, Get a Grip. This album featured hits like “Crazy” and “Livin’ on the Edge” and had a controversial cover that boosted its popularity.
Cultural events on May 8 also impacted rock music.
1911: Blues legend Robert Johnson was born in Mississippi. He is known as a major blues pioneer, with a famous legend about making a deal with the devil for his talent.
1940: Ricky Nelson was born in New Jersey. He had a long career in music and acting and was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1987.
1953: Alex Van Halen, drummer of Van Halen, was born in the Netherlands.
1965: Bob Dylan filmed the first-ever promotional music video for “Subterranean Homesick Blues” in London.
1977: Blues rock guitarist Joe Bonamassa was born in New York. He started his career at 12 and has released 15 solo albums, with 11 hitting No. 1 on the Billboard Blues chart.
1978: Donny Osmond married Debra Glenn in Utah.
