On this day in rock history: June 13
Rock ‘n’ roll music is a powerful and rebellious force that remains intertwined with significant events in American history. June 13 has seen its fair share of memorable hits and cultural highlights that have left an indelible mark on rock history.
On June 13, 1970, The Beatles soared to the top of the Billboard Hot 100 chart for the 20th and final time with their single “The Long and Winding Road.” This reflective piece, penned by Paul McCartney in 1968, encapsulates the beauty of the Scottish Highlands. In a synchronistic twist across the pond, Mungo Jerry’s debut single, “In the Summertime,” claimed the No. 1 spot on the UK singles chart, dominating the charts for seven weeks and peaking at No. 3 on the US Billboard Hot 100.
In a triumphant return, The Beach Boys reached the pinnacle of the music scene in 2012 with their first album in nearly two decades, “That’s Why God Made the Radio.” This album, which climbed to No. 3 on the Billboard 200, continued the legendary band’s streak of producing chart-topping music spanning over six decades. A year later, Foreigner’s illustrious songwriters were honored with induction into the Songwriters’ Hall of Fame in New York City, solidifying their place in music history.
Noteworthy records and performances also etched their place in rock history on June 13. The British pop group Bee Gees showcased their talents on the UK TV show “As You Like It” in 1967, performing “To Love Somebody,” a song originally written for Otis Redding. That same day in 1970, Uriah Heep released their debut album, “…Very ‘Eavy …Very ‘Umble,” an early heavy metal classic that initially garnered mixed reviews. Undeterred by critical reception, Jefferson Starship delivered their iconic album “Red Octopus” in 1975, featuring the hit song “Miracles.” Meanwhile, Peter Frampton embarked on a live recording journey in Marin Veterans Memorial Auditorium, resulting in the monumental success of his “Frampton Comes Alive” album.
The rock industry was not without changes and challenges on June 13. In 1969, The Rolling Stones introduced Mick Taylor as their new guitarist during a press conference in Hyde Park following Brian Jones’s tragic passing. A somber note was struck in 2018 with the passing of D.J. Fontana, Elvis Presley’s esteemed drummer and collaborator on classic hits like “Hound Dog” and “Jailhouse Rock.”
June 13 has witnessed a tapestry of musical achievements and cultural milestones that have solidified its place in the annals of rock history. From The Beatles to The Beach Boys, these iconic moments serve as a testament to the enduring influence and power of rock ‘n’ roll music.