June 25 has been a big day in rock history, with hits, losses, and standout moments that shaped the music world.
Breakthrough hits and milestones
1966: The Beatles hit No. 1 on the US Billboard Hot 100 with “Paperback Writer.” It spent two non-consecutive weeks at the top.
1967: The Beatles performed “All You Need Is Love” on the first global TV broadcast, Our World, seen across five continents.
1981: Rick Springfield’s “Jessie’s Girl” reached No. 9 on the Billboard Hot 100 in its 14th week.
1982: “Ebony And Ivory” by Paul McCartney and Stevie Wonder held the No. 1 spot for the seventh time in its 12th week.
1985: Bryan Adams’ “Heaven” topped the Billboard Hot 100 for a second straight week.
1987: Motley Crue’s album Girls, Girls, Girls peaked at No. 2 on the Billboard 200 and later went quadruple-Platinum.
Cultural milestones
2003: The RIAA said it would gather evidence to fight illegal music sharing, a major move tied to the Digital Millennium Copyright Act.
2009: Michael Jackson died at Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center. His passing was felt worldwide.
2016: Prince’s Yellow Cloud electric guitar sold at Heritage Auctions. The guitar was used through the ’80s and ’90s.
2016: Other items at the same auction included a lock of David Bowie’s hair and The Doors’ Six-Song Demo Acetate.
Notable recordings and performances
1982: Robert Plant released his debut solo album, Pictures at Eleven. Phil Collins played drums on five tracks. The album was later certified Platinum in the US.
June 25 has given us landmark releases, memorable performances, and moments that still matter to fans and musicians today.
