“Today in Rock History: April 22”
On April 22, various significant events have contributed to the history of rock music. From groundbreaking hits to cultural milestones, this date has shaped the music industry in various ways over the years. Let’s explore some fascinating facts from this day in history.
In 1966, The Troggs released “Wild Thing,” a song that would later top the Billboard Hot 100 chart within months. This track marked the band’s only number one hit in their career. Moving forward to 1989, Madonna’s Like a Prayer album secured the number one spot on the U.S. Billboard albums chart. Simultaneously, the title track of the album also reached number one on the singles chart, maintaining the top position for an impressive six weeks.
Television has also played a significant role in rock music history, as seen on April 22, 1978. The Blues Brothers, portrayed by John Belushi and Dan Aykroyd, made their debut on Saturday Night Live with Steve Martin as the host. This appearance catapulted the Blues Brothers into stardom, leading to multiple performances on the renowned show.
During the 1970s, iconic record releases and performances took place on April 22 that left a lasting impact on rock music. In 1972, Deep Purple’s album Machine Head swiftly climbed to the top spot on the U.K.’s Official Albums Chart, maintaining its position for three consecutive weeks. The album also peaked at number seven on the Billboard chart in the U.S. a year later. In 1978, while on his Bat Out of Hell tour, Meat Loaf suffered a severe injury by jumping off the stage in Ottawa, Ontario. Despite breaking his leg and needing surgery, he persevered and finished the tour performing in a wheelchair.
Amidst the successes, the rock industry faced challenges on April 22 as well. In 1981, Eric Clapton was involved in a car accident in Seattle, Washington, shortly after being treated for bleeding ulcers in St. Paul, Minnesota. Additionally, in 2010, Bret Michaels, the lead singer of Poison, suffered a critical brain hemorrhage, which he later attributed to an incident during the 2009 Tony Awards where a set piece fell and knocked him down on stage.
These historical events, revolutionary songs, iconic performances, and industry transformations have undoubtedly left an indelible mark on the rock music landscape. So, turn up the volume on your favorite tunes and make sure to revisit these significant moments in rock history for your daily dose of musical nostalgia.