August 24 is a significant day in rock history, marking the start of recording for one of the most famous songs ever. Let’s dive into some key events that happened on this date.
1956: Elvis Presley recorded his classic ballad “Love Me Tender” for the movie of the same name. The song topped the Billboard singles chart later that year and held the No. 1 spot for five weeks.
1966: The Doors began working on their self-titled debut album. This album includes timeless hits like “Break on Through (To the Other Side),” “Light My Fire,” and “The End.” It’s considered one of the greatest albums of all time.
1975: Queen started recording “Bohemian Rhapsody” at Rockfield Studios in Wales. Initially, radio stations were reluctant to play it because it was nearly six minutes long. However, it climbed to No. 1 on the U.K. singles chart by Christmas that year. Remarkably, it reached No. 1 again 15 years later after Freddie Mercury’s passing, making it the first song to top the U.K. chart on two separate occasions.
August 24 also has its share of somber moments in rock history.
1981: Mark Chapman, who killed John Lennon, was sentenced to 20 years to life in prison. He shot Lennon on December 8 of the previous year.
2021: Charlie Watts, the drummer for The Rolling Stones, passed away in London at the age of 80. He joined the band in 1963 and never missed a show, with his last performance on August 30, 2019.
August 24 is a day of both iconic beginnings and sad farewells in rock music. Check back tomorrow for more important events in rock history!
