On this day in history: December 6 – Q105

On the historic date of December 6th, rock music enthusiasts have plenty to celebrate with multiple significant events in the genre. This day saw Paul Simon climbing to the top of the charts, The Rolling Stones unveiling a new album, and the music world losing the legendary Roy Orbison.

Paul Simon’s fourth solo album, “Still Crazy After All These Years,” made a splash on December 6, 1975, by claiming the number one spot on the prestigious Billboard 200 chart. This album was a massive success, producing four Top 40 hits in the U.S., including popular tracks like “50 Ways to Leave Your Lover,” “Gone at Last,” “My Little Town,” and the title song itself.

Fast forward to December 6, 1986, where the Swedish rock band Europe made history by clinching the number one position on the U.K. singles chart with their iconic anthem, “The Final Countdown.” This song also soared to the top of the charts across various European countries, cementing Europe’s status in the rock music scene.

The annals of rock history also remember December 6 as the day The Rolling Stones released their seventh studio album, “Beggars Banquet,” in 1968. This album, distributed by Decca Records in the U.K. and London Records in the U.S., garnered critical acclaim and reached Platinum status in the U.S., solidifying The Rolling Stones’ legendary status. In a more contemporary release, December 6, 2005, marked the debut of Korn’s seventh studio album, “See You On the Other Side,” via Virgin Records, which has sold over 1.2 million copies in the U.S.

However, this day was not purely celebratory as the music industry both gained and lost significant figures on December 6. 1956 saw the birth of guitar virtuoso Randy Rhoads in Santa Monica, California, who tragically lost his life in a plane crash in 1982 at the tender age of 25. On the same day in 1988, the industry mourned the loss of Roy Orbison at the age of 52 due to a heart attack, just days after a performance in Ohio. Orbison, known for his successful solo career and role in the supergroup Traveling Wilburys alongside George Harrison, Bob Dylan, Jeff Lynne, and Tom Petty, left an indelible mark on the music industry.

From Paul Simon’s chart-topping success to The Rolling Stones’ acclaimed release, December 6 is a day intertwined with significant milestones in rock music history. With a mix of breakthrough hits, notable recordings, and industry changes, this date continues to be a testament to the rich legacy of rock music.