On Jan. 30, 1969, the Beatles played an impromptu concert on the rooftop of the Apple Corp building in London. Little did anyone know this would be their last live performance. This date has seen many significant moments in rock history.
1961: The Shirelles topped the Billboard Hot 100 with “Will You Love Me Tomorrow?” This was a groundbreaking moment as it marked the first time a Black female group reached No. 1 on the chart, signaling a change in the rock music scene.
1982: Hall & Oates scored their fourth No. 1 hit on the US Billboard Hot 100 with “I Can’t Go For That (No Can Do).” This song was part of their tenth studio album, *Private Eyes*, which also featured a title track that hit No. 1.
Cultural shifts in rock music also occurred on Jan. 30.
1951: Phil Collins was born in Chiswick, Middlesex. He was the drummer for Genesis from 1970 to 1975 and first appeared on their album *Nursery Cryme*.
1972: The tragic Bloody Sunday event, where British troops killed 13 Catholics, inspired Paul McCartney to write “Give Ireland Back To The Irish” within 48 hours. Wings performed the song, but it faced controversy and limited airplay. This event also influenced U2’s classic “Sunday Bloody Sunday.”
1982: Blues legend Lightnin’ Hopkins passed away at age 69. His music influenced many rock artists, including Stevie Ray Vaughan.
Notable recordings also took place on this day.
1956: Elvis Presley recorded tracks at RCA Victor Studios in New York City, including “Blue Suede Shoes.”
1969: At the Beatles’ rooftop concert, fans enjoyed 42 minutes of new songs like “Get Back” and “Don’t Let Me Down.”
1973: KISS performed for the first time at the Popcorn Club in Queens, New York, aiming to connect with fans in a straightforward style.
