On April 28, rock history was made when hit songs came out, rock stars got married, records went to the top of the charts, and so much more happened. If you’re interested in learning about the history of your favorite music genre, you’ll discover facts and trivia from April 28 about the artists, songs, and events that have shaped the rock music you love to listen to.
Breakthrough Hits and Milestones
The 1970s saw a number of breakthrough hits top the charts and bands expand their influence, and these April 28 songs and milestones are just a few examples:
- 1973: From their album Parallel Lines, Blondie’s song “Heart of Glass” debuted at No.1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. This was the group’s first entry onto the Billboard and their first time topping the chart.
- 1979: After being released on March 1, Pink Floyd’s Dark Side of the Moon album hit No. 1 on the U.S. Billboard albums chart. The album is the longest-charting album ever, at nearly 1,000 weeks on the Billboard 200.
Cultural Milestones
Cultural happenings in the rock industry from April 28 that had a big influence on the music scene were:
- 1999: The Hollywood Walk of Fame honored Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers with a star on this day. You can see the star if you’re ever in Hollywood, California.
- 2003: Launched as the first legal place to download digital music, the Apple iTunes Music Store became available to the public. This service helped pave the way for today’s popular music streaming platforms.
Notable Recordings and Performances
Recordings and performances by rock artists with a significant impact on the genre that occurred on April 28 include:
- 1976: Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band took the stage at the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, Tennessee. They were the first rock group to do so since The Byrds played the venue in 1968.
- 1998: Before These Crowded Streets by Dave Matthews Band debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200, ending the Titanic soundtrack’s 16-week run at the top of the chart. The album sold 421,000 units in its first week.
Industry Changes and Challenges
Without these changes and challenges of April 28, rock music wouldn’t have the solid foundation it thrives on today:
- 1975: DJ Tom “Big Daddy” Donahue died of a heart attack at the age of 46. Donahue is one of only three DJs to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and is well known for his influence on FM progressive radio and the format of early FM rock stations.
- 2008: Stone Temple Pilots’ lead singer Scott Weiland got his second DUI conviction in four years and was sentenced to 192 hours in jail. He was also required to take an 18-month alcohol program and pay a $1,600 fine.
Do you feel more connected to the rock music you love after this April 28 dose of rock music history? These events, songs, performances, and obstacles of the past have made the rock music industry what it is today.
