June 16 is a significant day in rock history. On this date, David Bowie released his glam rock classic, and one of the largest benefit concerts in the U.S. took place. Bob Dylan was also making waves by recording “Like a Rolling Stone,” a song that still resonates on rock and classic rock stations today.
Over the years, June 16 has seen many hits and milestones. In 1979, Donna Summer’s album *Bad Girls* topped the Billboard 200 for six weeks, achieving double Platinum status and featuring two No. 1 hits. That same year, Electric Light Orchestra released their eighth album, *Discovery*, which reached No. 1 on the UK album chart and went Platinum in both the US and UK. In 2002, a remix of “A Little Less Conversation” by Elvis Presley hit the British singles chart, bringing his total number of chart-toppers to 18. In 2004, Velvet Revolver’s album *Contraband* dominated the Billboard charts, featuring hits like “Slither” and “Fall to Pieces.”
Culturally, June 16 has also been important. In 1993, the U.S. Postal Service released a booklet of rock ‘n’ roll stamps featuring legends like Elvis Presley and Buddy Holly. In 1996, the Tibetan Freedom Concert, organized by the Beastie Boys, raised funds for various causes. In 1999, Phil Collins received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, thanks to Disney for his work on the *Tarzan* soundtrack.
Notable recordings on this date include Bob Dylan’s “Like a Rolling Stone” in 1965, Pink Floyd’s “See Emily Play” in 1967, and the start of the Monterey International Pop Festival in 1967, which attracted over 200,000 fans and featured legendary performances.
