When music fans think of November 22, they remember some big moments in music history. For example, Aretha Franklin released “Chain of Fools” on this day in 1967. Written by Don Covay, the song hit No. 1 on Billboard’s Best Selling R&B Singles and No. 2 on the Hot 100. It also won Franklin a GRAMMY in 1969. Another highlight from this date is Whitney Houston’s number-one single “How Will I Know,” which debuted in 1985.
Several albums released on November 22 have made waves in the music scene. In 2004, U2 dropped their eleventh studio album, *How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb*, which included two number-one singles, “Sometimes You Can’t Make It on Your Own” and “Vertigo.” The album earned the band eight GRAMMYs. In 2010, Kanye West released *My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy*, which debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 and featured hits like “Runaway” and “All Of The Lights.” Most recently, in 2024, Kendrick Lamar’s sixth album, *GNX*, also debuted at No. 1, with all 12 tracks making it into the Top 40.
November 22 has also seen cultural milestones. In 1965, Bob Dylan married Sara Lownds, and in 2024, *Wicked: Part One* hit theaters, starring Ariana Grande as Glinda.
However, this date has its share of sadness too. In 1963, Lee Harvey Oswald assassinated President John F. Kennedy, an event that inspired many songs. In 1988, Janet Ertel of The Chordettes passed away at 75. From weddings to album releases, November 22 has truly shaped the music world.
