Today in Rock History: July 18 – WRIF Makes Waves in Detroit
July 18th has been marked by significant events throughout history, from FDR’s nomination for a third presidential term to the trial of eight White Sox players. Rock music also has its share of memorable moments on this day, ranging from breakthrough hits to cultural milestones.
During the late ’90s and early 2000s, rock bands managed to carve out their space on the music charts, despite the dominance of pop and hip-hop. In 1999, Pearl Jam’s single “Last Kiss” reached the No. 4 spot on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, showcasing the band’s enduring popularity. Similarly, in 2001, Incubus held onto the No. 10 spot with their single “Drive,” defying the conventions of a music scene dominated by other genres.
The early 2000s brought a mix of nostalgia and spectacle to rock music culture. In 2001, MTV premiered “Hysteria: The Def Leppard Story,” a dramatized account of the band’s journey through success and adversity, including drummer Rick Allen’s infamous accident. That same year, KISS unveiled the KISS Kasket, a unique piece of memorabilia that blurred the lines between music and fan devotion, with some band members ultimately being laid to rest in KISS Kaskets.
Live performances on July 18 have also left an indelible mark on rock history. In 2000, Metallica rocked the House of Blues in West Hollywood as part of their Summer Sanitarium 200 tour, delivering an unforgettable setlist to fans. In 2018, Billy Joel celebrated his 100th show at Madison Square Garden, earning a special day dedicated to him in New York alongside the display of his iconic piano.
Behind the scenes, the music industry faced unexpected losses and legal battles on July 18. In 2002, Royden Magee, crew chief for The Rolling Stones, tragically passed away during a rehearsal in Toronto, attributed to a sudden heart attack. In 2018, Sir Cliff Richard emerged victorious in a privacy case against the BBC concerning their coverage of a police raid at his home, underscoring the challenges faced by artists in maintaining their privacy and integrity.
From chart-topping singles to dramatic tributes, offbeat memorabilia, and industry transitions, the legacy of rock music culture is woven through the moments that shape its ongoing narrative. Each headline serves as a reminder that the rhythm of rock music’s history is as resilient and ever-evolving as the artists who define it.