Today in Rock History: April 5 – K 104.7
Today marks an important date in rock history, as April 5 is the day when we remember the tragic losses of grunge icons Kurt Cobain and Layne Staley. Despite these somber events, this day also holds moments of celebration such as R.E.M.’s inaugural performance and the successful charity single “We Are the World.” Let’s delve into the significant events that took place on this day in rock history.
Some key milestones and breakthroughs include Genesis achieving their first UK No. 1 album with “Duke” in 1980 after nine previous attempts. The album sold over 5 million copies globally and received praise from critics. In 1985, the charity single “We Are the World” was simultaneously broadcast by thousands of radio stations worldwide to raise funds for famine relief in Ethiopia. Featuring top artists like Michael Jackson and Bruce Springsteen, the song raised a remarkable $80 million.
In terms of cultural milestones, 1966 saw the birth of Pearl Jam guitarist Mike McCready in Pensacola, Florida. He later entered the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame with his bandmates in 2017. However, 1994 brought the tragic loss of Nirvana’s Kurt Cobain, who took his own life in Seattle, Washington after battling substance abuse and health issues. In a grim turn of events, Alice in Chains frontman Layne Staley was found dead due to a heroin and cocaine overdose in 2002.
On the performance front, James Brown’s concert in Boston was aired live on TV and radio in 1968 following Martin Luther King Jr.’s assassination in an effort to prevent city riots. The broadcast seemingly helped maintain peace in Boston while unrest spread across the US. In a more positive light, 1980 witnessed R.E.M.’s debut show at St. Mary’s Episcopal Church in Athens, Georgia, where they played a mix of originals and covers for a small crowd.
Despite the tragedies that have marked April 5 in rock history, it’s important to acknowledge moments of joy and achievement that have also occurred on this day. Remember to check back tomorrow to explore more significant events from this date in the world of rock music.