As jazz, blues, country, and other genres mixed in the mid-50s, rock and roll music emerged. Since then, rock has evolved significantly, and May 6 has been key in shaping the music we love today. Here’s a look at some important rock history from this date.
1972: Tyrannosaurus Rex (later known as T. Rex) released their debut album, “My People Were Fair and Had Sky in Their Hair… But Now They’re Content to Wear Stars on Their Brows,” which hit No. 1 on the UK album chart after a re-release. It still holds the record for the longest title of a UK No. 1 album.
1978: The soundtrack for Saturday Night Fever reached No. 1 on the U.K. Albums Chart, staying there for 18 weeks. It remains one of the best-selling soundtracks ever, with over 40 million copies sold worldwide.
1995: Oasis scored their first No. 1 hit in the U.K. with “Some Might Say.” This was the last single featuring all five original members, as Tony McCarroll was let go shortly after.
Culturally, May 6 has seen significant events. 1945: Bob Seger was born in Detroit, Michigan. He has had a successful career and was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2004.
1997: The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame held its induction ceremony in Cleveland for the first time, honoring acts like The Jackson 5, Bee Gees, Buffalo Springfield, and Crosby, Stills & Nash.
Notable recordings also took place on this day. 1957: Chuck Berry recorded “Rock and Roll Music,” a hit that made the top 10 on the U.S. Hot 100. 1968: Johnny Cash released “Johnny Cash at Folsom Prison,” revitalizing his career. 1973: Paul Simon kicked off his first major solo tour in Boston, promoting his album “There Goes Rhymin’ Simon.
