Every year on May 13, the music world experiences some unforgettable moments. This date has seen chart-topping hits, memorable performances, and significant events that have shaped the industry. Let’s take a look at some of the highlights in music history that have occurred on this day.
In 1985, New Order released their third album, Low Life, which peaked at No. 7 in the U.K. This album included notable tracks that helped define the sound of the era. Fast forward to 2006, when Rihanna scored her first No. 1 hit on the Billboard Hot 100, marking the start of her rise as a global pop star. In 2011, Adele’s hit song reached No. 1, becoming one of the year’s biggest singles. That same year, Katy Perry’s collaboration with Kanye West continued to dominate the charts, adding to her record of five No. 1 singles from her album, Teenage Dream.
In 2015, Wiz Khalifa’s tribute to Paul Walker, featuring Charlie Puth, held the No. 1 spot on the Billboard Hot 100. The following year, Chance the Rapper released his mixtape, Coloring Book, which climbed to No. 8 on the Billboard 200 and won a GRAMMY. In 2022, Kendrick Lamar released his fifth studio album, Mr. Morale & the Big Steppers, which topped the Billboard 200 and included several Top 10 hits.
May 13 is also significant for cultural milestones. In 1950, Stevie Wonder was born in Saginaw, Michigan. Despite being blind, he pursued music from a young age and joined Motown Records at just 11 years old. In 1985, Bruce Springsteen married Julianne Phillips in a private ceremony in Oregon, attended by family and friends. These moments remind us of the rich history and ongoing evolution of music.
