With raw power and rebellion at its core, rock ‘n’ roll music has highlighted some of the most dramatic moments in American history. From epic performances to cultural shifts, here are key moments from June 12 in rock history.
1963: The Beach Boys recorded two of their biggest hits, “Little Deuce Coupe” and “Surfer Girl,” in one session at United Western Recorders in Hollywood. These songs still get airplay today.
1965: The Supremes scored their fifth consecutive No. 1 hit with “Back in My Arms Again,” following hits like “Where Did Our Love Go” and “Stop! In the Name of Love.”
2003: The Songwriters Hall of Fame in New York City welcomed four legends: Van Morrison, Queen, Little Richard, and Phil Collins. This Hall of Fame has honored over 400 songwriters since its start in 1969.
Cultural milestones also marked this day. 1951: Brad Delp, lead singer of Boston, was born in Peabody, Massachusetts. He worked with the band’s founder, Tom Scholz, and sang on their classic albums.
1964: The Beatles arrived in Adelaide, Australia, for their first tour there, drawing a crowd of 300,000 fans, even without Ringo Starr.
2005: Pink Floyd announced that former bassist Roger Waters would reunite with the band for the Live 8 concert in London, a moment that fans still remember.
1965: Sonny and Cher made their debut on American Bandstand with Dick Clark, marking the start of their rise in music.
