Rock 92.9: A Look Back at August 10 in Rock History
August 10 is a significant day in history, witnessing various events ranging from President Calvin Coolidge dedicating Mount Rushmore to Ruth Bader Ginsburg being sworn in as a Supreme Court justice. Rock history has also seen its fair share of remarkable moments on August 10.
Albums have seen fluctuations on the charts on this day, with some reaching the top after a long run. In 1977, KISS’s album “Love Gun” was at the No. 5 spot on the Billboard 200 chart after spending six weeks on the chart and peaking at No. 4. In 1980, The Rolling Stones’ album “Emotional Release” maintained its position at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 chart for the fifth week in a row. Bryan Adams’ album “Reckless” climbed to the No. 1 spot in 1985 after spending an impressive 38 weeks on the chart.
August 10 has also marked significant cultural events, such as the birth of Leo Fender, the innovator behind the famed electric guitar, in 1909. In 2002, Lisa Marie Presley tied the knot with Nicolas Cage after a two-year courtship, but their marriage was short-lived and ended in divorce in 2004.
Memorable performances and recordings have taken place on August 10, showcasing a diverse range of talents. In 2018, Dawes performed at Cactus Music in Houston, Texas, featuring tracks like “Stay Down” and “Crack the Case.” Slash took the stage at The BayCare Sound in Clearwater, Florida, as part of the S.E.R.P.E.N.T. Festival in 2024, performing hits like “Born Under a Bad Sign.”
The music industry has faced challenges and changes on August 10, with unexpected cancellations and shifts in consumer behavior. In 2011, The Monkees abruptly canceled the remaining dates of their U.S. tour due to business issues, sparking speculation among fans. Meanwhile, Columbia House, known for its penny CD giveaways in the 80s and 90s, filed for bankruptcy in 2015, citing tough competition from streaming services like Netflix and Amazon.
August 10 encapsulates the complexity and dynamism of music history, from chart-topping albums to revolutionary instruments that have shaped the industry. It is a day that highlights the ever-evolving nature of rock music and its enduring impact on culture and society.