Today in Rock History: December 11 – 96.3 KKLZ
December 11 has been a significant date in rock history, marking the achievements and milestones of some of the most iconic figures in the music industry. From chart-topping albums to legendary performances, this day has seen a number of notable events that have left a lasting impact on the world of rock music.
In 1961, Elvis Presley’s soundtrack for the movie “Blue Hawaii” reached the number one spot on Billboard’s album chart. This marked the seventh time one of his albums had achieved this feat, solidifying his status as a chart-topping artist. The album spent a total of 20 weeks at the top and remained in the top 10 for an additional 19 weeks, showcasing Elvis’s enduring popularity.
Another significant event took place in 1968 when The Rolling Stones began filming for their movie, The Rolling Stones Rock and Roll Circus. The film featured performances from a star-studded lineup of musicians, including Eric Clapton, Taj Mahal, John Lennon, and The Who. Despite the impressive roster of talent, the film was not released until many years later, as the band deemed their own performance to be subpar.
On the cultural front, December 11 saw the birth of Mötley Crüe bass player Nikki Sixx in 1958. Sixx went on to co-found the band in 1981 and remained the only constant member throughout its turbulent history. In 1964, the world mourned the loss of soul legend Sam Cooke, who passed away at the age of 33. Cooke’s influence on the music industry was profound, and his legacy lives on through his timeless recordings.
Dec. 11 also marked the beginning of new chapters in the careers of two rock legends. In 1970, John Lennon released his first solo album, John Lennon/Plastic Ono Band, after parting ways with The Beatles. Although initially met with mixed reviews, the album would later be appreciated for its bold and introspective music. Meanwhile, in 1972, Genesis performed their first-ever show on American soil at Cholmondeley’s Coffeehouse at Brandeis University in Waltham, Massachusetts. This performance served as a warm-up for their upcoming show at New York City’s Philharmonic Hall, setting the stage for their future success.
With a lineup of iconic figures such as Elvis Presley, John Lennon, and Genesis making waves on December 11, it’s evident that this date holds a special place in rock history. Whether it’s groundbreaking albums, legendary performances, or milestones in the careers of music legends, December 11 continues to be a day that music fans will always remember.