The music world comes together to celebrate Yvonne Elliman’s birthday on December 29. Born in Honolulu, Hawaii, in 1951, she started playing piano and performing in local talent shows as a child. Her biggest hit, “If I Can’t Have You,” topped Billboard’s Hot 100 for a week in 1978 and reached No. 4 on the UK Singles Chart. Other Top 40 singles include “Love Me” and “I Don’t Know How to Love Him,” which peaked at No. 6 and No. 17 in the UK, respectively.
Want to learn more about Top 40 history on December 29? Here are some highlights:
In 1965, The Supremes released “I Hear a Symphony,” which peaked at No. 5 on the Billboard Hot 100. They later performed it on The Ed Sullivan Show in 1966.
In 2007, Miley Cyrus debuted her single “See You Again” from her album, Hannah Montana 2: Meet Miley Cyrus. The song quickly climbed the Hot 100, reaching No. 10.
Cultural milestones also mark this date:
In 1957, Steve Lawrence and Eydie Gormé, whose song “We Got Us” hit No. 3 in the UK, got married in Las Vegas. They were together until Gormé passed away in 2013.
In 1983, Jessica Andrews was born in Tennessee. She has several Top 40 hits, including “Who I Am,” and has collaborated with stars like Tim McGraw.
In 1985, Billy Joel welcomed his daughter, Alexa Ray Joel, with Christie Brinkley.
December 29 has also seen its share of challenges:
In 1965, Doug Sahm and Frank Morin of the Sir Douglas Quintet were arrested for marijuana possession.
In 1996, Jerry Knight of Raydio passed away from cancer at 44.
In 2002, Creed faced backlash after a poorly received performance in Illinois, leading to fan lawsuits.
