Feb. 25 has seen some major moments in rock history, from hit songs to iconic albums. On this day, legends were born, groundbreaking records were released, and songs that shaped generations topped the charts.
1957: Buddy Holly and the Crickets re-recorded “That’ll Be the Day” after the first version didn’t sound great. This new version became a hit and was part of their final album.
1984: Van Halen scored big with “Jump,” which hit No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and stayed there for five weeks. This became their biggest single and won them a GRAMMY.
1989: Simple Minds reached the top of the UK singles chart with “Belfast Child,” marking their first No. 1 in the UK from their album, Street Fighting Years.
Cultural milestones also stand out. 1943: George Harrison, the guitarist for The Beatles, was born in Liverpool. He later had a successful solo career.
1981: Pat Benatar won the GRAMMY for Best Rock Vocal Performance for her album Crimes of Passion, holding the title for four years straight.
Notable recordings include 1963: The Beatles released “Please Please Me” in the U.S., which later climbed to No. 3.
1964: They recorded “Can’t Buy Me Love” on Harrison’s 21st birthday, and it became a huge hit worldwide.
1972: Led Zeppelin played their first show in Auckland, New Zealand, drawing the largest crowd ever there.
1985: Tears for Fears released Songs from the Big Chair, which hit No. 1 in the U.S. thanks to hits like “Shout.”
1992: Pantera released Vulgar Display of Power, their best-selling album.
1992: Jimi Hendrix was honored posthumously with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the GRAMMYs.
