Today in Rock History: April 25
April 25 holds significance in rock music history beyond the birthdays of notable bass guitarists Stu Cook and Eric Avery. Throughout the years, this date has seen the release of hit songs, record-breaking performances, and pivotal moments in the industry that have shaped the landscape of rock music for generations.
In 1954, Johnnie Ray secured his first UK No. 1 single with “Such a Night,” a song that showcased his jazz and blues-influenced style, which many credit as a foundational element of rock and roll. Fast forward to 1970, The Jackson 5 dethroned The Beatles’ “Let It Be” from the top of the Billboard Hot 100 chart with their infectious track “ABC,” marking their first chart-topping hit that sold an impressive two million copies within the first week. In 1987, Madonna made history by achieving her fourth No. 1 hit on the U.K. chart with “La Isla Bonita,” solidifying her status as the female artist with the most U.K. No. 1 singles.
The cultural impact of April 25 extends to the ’90s with the birth of blues legend Albert King in 1923, whose influence as a guitarist earned him a posthumous induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Creedence Clearwater Revival bassist Stu Cook, born in 1945, was a pivotal figure in the band’s success, selling over 45 million records and earning a spot in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. The iconic Fender Stratocaster played by Jimi Hendrix at the 1969 Woodstock Festival was sold for $295,000 in 1990, currently housed in the Museum of Pop Culture in Seattle, Washington.
April 25 also marked significant events in the rock music industry, such as Steely Dan’s release of “Rikki Don’t Lose That Number” in 1974, a hit that peaked at No. 4 on the US Billboard Hot 100 singles chart. Elvis Presley’s final recordings were made on April 25, 1977, during a Civic Center concert in Saginaw, Michigan, later featured on the posthumous album “Moody Blue.” U2 kicked off their PopMart world tour on April 25, 1997, entertaining over 35,000 fans in Las Vegas, Nevada, with songs from their album “Pop.”
From Wings losing Denny Laine in 1981 to Paul McCartney embracing a solo path, to Motley Crue co-founder Nikki Sixx advocating for fair pay for musicians in 2016, the industry has experienced changes and challenges that have contributed to its evolution. As fans celebrate this day by listening to their favorite rock tunes, they can reflect on the historical moments and achievements that have shaped the rich tapestry of rock music.