Every day has its moments in music history, especially in rock. June 20 is notable for big guitar sales and significant performances, showing that rock history is always alive.
1978: Foreigner released their second studio album, featuring the hit “Hot Blooded,” which reached No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 and later earned Platinum certification.
2001: The Cult launched their seventh album, Beyond Good and Evil, their first in over six years, debuting at No. 37 on the U.S. charts.
Beyond music, June 20 has seen key events in the industry.
1942: Brian Wilson, founding member of the Beach Boys, was born in Inglewood, California. He is considered one of the most influential musicians of the 20th century.
1949: Lionel Richie was born in Tuskegee, Alabama. He started with the Commodores and later enjoyed a successful solo career, selling over 90 million records and earning a Rock & Roll Hall of Fame nomination in 2022.
1954: Michael Anthony, bassist of Van Halen, was born in Chicago. He played with the band from 1974 to 2006, recording 11 albums and earning a spot in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.
1969: David Bowie recorded “Space Oddity” after watching the film 2001: A Space Odyssey.
2000: A New York court ordered Mick Jagger to disclose his finances during a child support case.
2019: David Gilmour of Pink Floyd auctioned 127 guitars from his collection, setting records and raising over $21 million.
June 20 has also seen memorable performances.
1966: Bob Dylan released his acclaimed album, Blonde on Blonde, which went 2x Platinum in the U.S.
1986: Big names like Elton John, Phil Collins, and Rod Stewart performed at the Prince’s Trust Rock Gala in London.
1995: Michael Jackson released his ninth album, HIStory: Past, Present and Future.
