February 14 is not just Valentine’s Day; it’s also a day filled with memorable music milestones. On this date, the movie *Wayne’s World* premiered in the U.S., featuring music from popular artists. It was also the day Bon Jovi’s huge hit began a four-week run at the top of the charts.
Breakthrough Hits and Milestones
Many beloved songs were recorded or released on February 14. Here are some highlights:
– 1967: Aretha Franklin recorded “Respect” at Atlantic Records in New York City. Although Otis Redding wrote and recorded it first, Franklin’s version became her signature hit.
– 1985: Whitney Houston released her self-titled debut album, launching her career as one of the greatest singers of all time, earning multiple GRAMMY Awards.
– 1994: Pavement released their second album, *Crooked Rain, Crooked Rain*, featuring hits like “Cut Your Hair.” The album reached No. 15 in the U.K. and spent about four weeks on the charts.
– 2016: Kanye West dropped *The Life of Pablo*, collaborating with stars like The Weeknd and Rihanna. It debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 and produced several Top 40 hits.
– 2020: Justin Bieber released his fifth studio album, *Changes*, featuring collaborations with Quavo and Travis Scott. It debuted at No. 1, making Bieber the youngest solo artist to achieve this, with two Top Five hits.
Cultural Milestones
February 14 has also seen significant cultural moments:
– 1939: Country star Razzy Bailey was born in Alabama. He later scored over 10 Top 10 hits on Billboard’s country charts.
– 1972: Rob Thomas, frontman of Matchbox Twenty, was born. He received the first-ever Starlight Award from the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2004.
– 1992: *Wayne’s World*, starring Mike Myers and Dana Carvey, was released, featuring iconic songs like Queen’s “Bohemian Rhapsody.”
