This Day in Rock History: June 11
Rock ‘n’ roll history is a vibrant tapestry of raw, rebellious, and radical moments that have left an indelible mark on American culture. This genre is not just about music but serves as a sonic backdrop to the evolution of American history. June 11, in particular, has seen its fair share of breakthrough hits, cultural milestones, and noteworthy recordings that have shaped the landscape of rock ‘n’ roll.
One of the memorable songs released on June 11 dates back to 1957 when Elvis Presley, in collaboration with RCA Victor, dropped the iconic “(Let Me Be Your) Teddy Bear.” This track, featured in Presley’s movie Loving You, soared to the No. 1 spot on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, dominating the R&B Best Sellers List and country charts for an impressive seven weeks. Fast forward to 1991, Lynyrd Skynyrd returned to the music scene with their sixth studio album, appropriately titled Lynyrd Skynyrd 1991. This marked a significant comeback for the band after the tragic 1977 plane crash that claimed the lives of three band members.
The live music scene on June 11 has also witnessed some unforgettable performances that have become legends in their right. In 1972, Led Zeppelin graced the stage at the Civic Center in Baltimore, Maryland, delivering a powerhouse set that included classics like “Stairway to Heaven,” “Whole Lotta Love,” and “Heartbreak Hotel.” Fans were treated to a night of pure rock ‘n’ roll magic for the modest price of $5.50 to $7.50. Fast forward to 1988, Nelson Mandela’s 70th birthday celebration at Wembley Stadium in London brought together a star-studded lineup that featured the likes of Whitney Houston, Phil Collins, and Eric Clapton, among others. This tribute concert was broadcast to over 60 countries, showcasing the global impact of rock music.
Industry changes and challenges have also marked June 11 throughout the years. In 1964, The Rolling Stones attempted to host a press conference in an unconventional location, a traffic median on Michigan Avenue in Chicago, following a recording session at Chess Studios. Police intervention was necessary to disperse the growing crowd and alleviate the traffic congestion. Fast forward to 1966 when European radio stations mistakenly reported the death of Roger Daltrey, the lead singer of The Who, when in reality, it was guitarist Pete Townshend who had been injured in a car accident. These instances underscore the chaotic nature of the rock ‘n’ roll industry.
In conclusion, June 11 is a date steeped in rock ‘n’ roll history, filled with iconic moments, legendary performances, and industry developments that have shaped this genre into what it is today. From Elvis Presley to Led Zeppelin, Lynyrd Skynyrd to The Rolling Stones, the contributions of these artists on June 11 have left an indelible legacy that continues to inspire and influence musicians and fans alike.