June 29: Rock History Today
June 29 may not always be a date that grabs the headlines in the rock music world, but it is filled with smaller moments that have left a lasting impact on rock music enthusiasts around the globe. From iconic cars going up for auction to the beginning of significant tours, this day has witnessed its fair share of crucial rock music events.
Celebrated Hits and Important Moments:
In 1984, Bruce Springsteen launched his Born in the U.S.A. Tour in Saint Paul, Minnesota, introducing Nils Lofgren on guitar, replacing Steven Van Zandt in his backing band. Fast forward to 1987, Mötley Crüe’s album Girls, Girls, Girls secured the No. 3 spot on the Billboard 200 chart, staying in the top 10 for 12 weeks. Moving on to 1992, Pearl Jam’s Ten album reached as high as the No. 5 position on the Billboard 200 chart and eventually attained Gold status.
Societal and Individual Milestones:
1948 saw Deep Purple drummer Ian Paice, the only member to have played in every lineup since their inception in 1968, born in Nottingham, England. Highly regarded as one of the most exceptional drummers in rock music history, he was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame as a Deep Purple member in 2016. 1974 marked the entry of Neil Peart into Rush, replacing John Rutsey as the band’s drummer. This transition proved to be the starting point of the band’s epic rise to fame, culminating in their induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2013. Notably, in 1985, John Lennon’s Rolls-Royce Phantom V was auctioned off at Sotheby’s after the Cooper-Hewitt Museum sold it. The famously painted vehicle drew attention due to The Beatles’ success. A few years later, in 1995, Ringo Starr ventured into TV commercials by appearing in an ad for Pizza Hut. The day Lisa Marie Presley declared her divorce from Michael Lockwood in 2016 also marked an eventful milestone in rock history.
Memorable Recordings and Live Shows:
From the final concert of The Jimi Hendrix Experience at the Denver Pop Festival in 1969 to the collaboration of Mick Jagger and David Bowie on the hit “Dancing in the Street” at Abbey Road Studios in 1985, June 29 hosts a plethora of iconic performances and recordings. The duo filmed the music video on the same day to raise money for Live Aid famine relief.
Industry Shifts and Challenges:
Unfortunately, behind the scenes, June 29 has witnessed troubling events, such as the desecration of the graves of Lynyrd Skynyrd singer Ronnie Van Zant and guitarist Steve Gaines in 2000, resulting in their families relocating their remains. In 2019, guitarist and vocalist Gary Duncan of Quicksilver Messenger Service passed away at the age of 72, marking the loss of a significant figure in the industry.
June 29 encapsulates the blend of highs and lows that shape the captivating world of rock music. Whether it be the electrifying performances of Bruce Springsteen or the intriguing history surrounding John Lennon’s Rolls-Royce, the events of this day serve as a reminder of the depth and richness within the realm of rock music.