June 10: WRIF Rocks Detroit in Rock History
The history of rock ‘n’ roll is filled with stirring performances, innovative music, and inspiring personal stories. June 10 stands out as a significant day in rock history, with various breakthrough hits and cultural milestones shaping the landscape of the genre.
In 1981, the formation of the band Asia, comprising seasoned performers like Steve Howe and John Wetton, led to the creation of the hit song “Heat Of The Moment.” Five years later, bad weather forced the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band to relocate their 20th-anniversary celebration from Red Rocks Amphitheater to Denver’s McNichols Sports Arena.
On June 10, 1966, The Monkees made their first recording session at RCA Studios in Los Angeles, debuting songs like “Take a Giant Step” and “Let’s Dance On.” In 1993, amidst controversy, Sinead O’Connor placed a full-page ad in the Irish Times asking the public to “stop hurting me” after tearing up a photo of the Pope on television. The year 2004 marked the passing of Ray Charles, a legendary artist and 18-time GRAMMY Award winner, who left an indelible mark on American music.
The Who captivated audiences with a sold-out series of concerts at Madison Square Garden on June 10, 1974, with tickets for the show selling out within hours. In 1991, after serving a prison sentence in South Carolina, James Brown made a triumphant return to the stage in a pay-per-view concert at the Wiltern Theatre in Los Angeles. Rick Astley’s comeback in 2016 with his album “50” reached the top of the UK charts, showcasing his enduring popularity.
The rock music industry also faced challenges on June 10, with incidents like the Jethro Tull concert at Red Rocks Amphitheater in 1971, where police used tear gas due to an overflow of fans. Additionally, in 1992, law enforcement officers in Texas boycotted Warner Bros. Records and Time Warner Inc. over Ice-T’s song “Cop Killer,” leading to the reissue of the album without the controversial track.
From groundbreaking performances to cultural shifts and industry challenges, June 10 has left an undeniable mark on rock history. The day is a testament to the enduring impact of the genre and the artists who continue to shape its legacy.