June 26 has its own place in rock and pop history. From chart-topping hits to major lineup changes and memorable shows, artists and fans marked big moments on this date.
Breakthrough hits and milestones
1965: The Byrds’ cover of Bob Dylan’s “Mr. Tambourine Man” hit No. 1 on the US Billboard Hot 100, sparking the folk-rock wave. It’s the only Dylan-written song to top the Billboard singles chart.
1982: “Ebony And Ivory” by Paul McCartney and Stevie Wonder spent its final week at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100.
1993: Duran Duran’s “Come Undone” kept climbing, peaking at No. 7 on the Billboard Hot 100 and charting in Canada and the U.S. Cash Box Top 100.
1999: Pearl Jam’s “Last Kiss” jumped to No. 2 on the Billboard Top 100, rising from No. 49 and staying on the charts for 21 weeks.
Cultural moments
1956: Chris Isaak was born in Stockton, California. He’s released 13 studio albums and is best known for 1989’s “Wicked Game.”
1996: Van Halen announced David Lee Roth’s return as frontman, replacing Sammy Hagar after tensions led to Hagar’s firing.
2018: Bee Gees frontman Barry Gibb was knighted by Prince Charles and became Sir Barry Gibb.
2024: The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Library & Archives opened a World Series of Rock exhibit for the concerts’ 50th anniversary.
Notable recordings and performances
1975: Bob Dylan released The Basement Tapes, his sixteenth studio album, recorded in part with the Band.
1977: Elvis Presley played his last show at Market Square Arena in Indianapolis in front of over 18,000 fans. He died seven weeks later.
1992: Elton John returned to Wembley Stadium for a three-day concert with Eric Clapton.
2012: Maroon 5 released Overexposed, featuring “One More Night,” “Payphone,” and “Daylight.”
2021: Bruce Springsteen returned to live shows on Broadway, marking a comeback for intimate live performances.
