Oct. 4 is a day marked by the loss of one of rock’s greatest voices, Janis Joplin. But it’s also a day filled with significant events in rock history. Here are some highlights.
1969: The Beatles released their eleventh and final studio album, Abbey Road, which hit No. 1 on the U.K. singles chart. It stayed at the top for an impressive 17 weeks. In 2019, it returned to No. 1 for its 50th anniversary, marking the longest gap between No. 1 album runs.
1969: Across the ocean, Creedence Clearwater Revival topped the Billboard 200 with their third album, Green River. This was their first U.S. No. 1 album, holding the spot for four weeks.
1980: Queen began a three-week run at No. 1 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 with “Another One Bites the Dust.” Written by bassist John Deacon, it became the band’s biggest hit.
Culturally, Oct. 4 is significant for both loss and beginnings.
1968: Led Zeppelin, then known as The New Yardbirds, played their first U.K. concert at the Mayfair Ballroom in Newcastle. This show set the stage for future classics like “Dazed and Confused” and “Communication Breakdown.”
1970: Janis Joplin tragically died of a heroin overdose in Hollywood. She was working on her album Pearl, which later topped the Billboard 200 for nine weeks.
Notable performances also took place on this day.
1982: The Smiths had their first show at The Ritz in Manchester, opening for Blue Rondo à la Turk.
1999: Paul McCartney released his eleventh solo album, Run Devil Run, featuring covers of 1950s rock and roll songs.
Despite the sadness of Joplin’s passing, Oct. 4 has given rock fans many reasons to celebrate over the years. Check back tomorrow for more iconic moments in rock history!
