July has seen some big moments. July 15 stands out with events like the launch of Twitter (now X) and President Jimmy Carter addressing the nation about the energy crisis and recession. Rock fans also get plenty to remember on this date.
Breakthrough Hits and Milestones
1972: Elton John hit No. 1 on the US Billboard 200 with Honky Château. It stayed five weeks at the top and started seven straight US No. 1 albums for him.
1978: The Rolling Stones reached No. 1 on the US Billboard 200 with Some Girls, their first album with Ronnie Wood as a permanent member.
1985: Duran Duran kept a No. 1 streak as “A View to a Kill” spent its second week at the top of the Billboard Hot 100.
1989: The Doobie Brothers returned to the Hot 100 with “The Doctor,” holding at No. 9 that week.
2002: Jimmy Eat World saw “The Middle” at No. 7 on the Hot 100 after 19 weeks on the chart.
Cultural Moments
1956: Guitarist Joe Satriani was born in Westbury, New York. He became a top solo artist and a noted guitar teacher.
2009: Paul McCartney surprised viewers of The Late Show with David Letterman with a short set including “Band on the Run” and “Helter Skelter.”
2015: Neil Young announced he would pull his music from streaming services over sound quality and artist pay issues.
2018: Guns N’ Roses saw the “November Rain” video become the first post-YouTube-era video to hit 1 billion views.
Notable Live Moments
1989: Pink Floyd played a famous free concert in Venice, in front of St. Mark’s Square, creating a memorable night for fans.
