December 8 is a bittersweet day in rock music history. We remember two legends, John Lennon and Dimebag Darrell of Pantera, who were taken from us too soon. On a brighter note, it’s also the anniversary of the Eagles’ iconic album “Hotel California.” Here are some key moments from this day in rock history.
1979: Styx scored their first and only No. 1 single on the Billboard Hot 100 with “Babe.” It also reached No. 6 in the U.K.
2013: Metallica made history by becoming the first band to perform on all seven continents. They played a special set in Antarctica called “Freeze ‘Em All.”
Two rock legends were born on this day:
1943: Jim Morrison was born in Melbourne, Florida. He co-founded The Doors in 1965 and hit it big with “Light My Fire.”
1947: Gregg Allman was born in Nashville, Tennessee. He started the Allman Brothers Band with his brother Duane in 1969 and had a successful solo career.
Some notable events include:
1968: Graham Nash played his last show with The Hollies at a charity concert in London before leaving to form Crosby, Stills & Nash.
1976: The Eagles released “Hotel California,” which has sold over 32 million copies worldwide.
Tragedy struck on this day:
1980: John Lennon was shot and killed outside his New York City apartment.
2004: Dimebag Darrell was shot while performing with Damageplan in Columbus, Ohio.
Despite the sadness, December 8 also brings moments to celebrate. Check back tomorrow for more rock history!
