This Day in Rock History: April 10
Whether it’s the birth of a prominent musician, the release of a hit song, or an event that sent waves through the rock industry, April 10 has done its part…
Whether it's the birth of a prominent musician, the release of a hit song, or an event that sent waves through the rock industry, April 10 has done its part in shaping the music genre you love. In fact, rock 'n' roll wouldn't be the inspiring genre it is today without some of the important happenings on April 10 of years past. Keep reading to learn more about what happened on this day in rock history.
Breakthrough Hits and Milestones
Many rock songs have come and gone over the years, but these hits and milestones from April 10 are some that made history:
- 1976: What would become one of the greatest-selling albums of all time, Frampton Comes Alive! by Peter Frampton, hit No. 1 on the Billboard 200 chart. The album was at the top for 10 weeks and stayed on the chart for nearly two years.
- 1982: Iron Maiden got their first UK No. 1 album when The Number of The Beast topped the charts. It was their third studio album, and first with new frontman Bruce Dickinson.
Cultural Milestones
The April 10 cultural events that really impacted the rock music industry were:
- 1956: On this historic day, Leo Fender patented the revolutionary and distinctive Stratocaster electric guitar. This iconic instrument quickly became integral to rock 'n' roll's rise to success.
- 1970: In a press release, Paul McCartney told the world he was leaving The Beatles due to personal and business differences and to spend more time with his family. His debut solo album accompanied the press statement.
Notable Recordings and Performances
In the 1980s, these April 10 recordings and performances helped guide rock 'n' roll to become what it is today:
- 1970: Elton John released his self-titled second studio album via DJM Records. This is widely considered to be his breakthrough album, and included his first big single, "Your Song," which peaked at No. 8 on the US Billboard Hot 100 and No. 7 in his native UK.
- 1978: Jethro Tull released their eleventh studio album, Heavy Horses, through Chrysalis Records. Produced by the band's leader Ian Anderson, the album follows the band's unique folk and prog-rock-inspired sound, and peaked at No. 19 on the US Billboard 200 albums chart.
- 1981: The Clash released "The Magnificent Seven" single from their fourth studio album, Sandinista! It had hip-hop influences, which was a novelty at that time, and while it failed to chart in the States, it became an underground hit at the time.
- 1985: In Seattle, Washington, Madonna launched her first tour, called The Virgin Tour, to support her first and second albums, Madonna and Like a Virgin. The Beastie Boys, who weren't yet well-known, opened for the female rock star.
- 1989: The Cult released their fourth studio album, Sonic Temple. It peaked at No. 10 on the Billboard 200 chart and is considered the group's most successful album.
- 1999: A benefit tribute concert called Concert for Linda was held at the Royal Albert Hall in London, England. It celebrated the life of Paul McCartney's late wife, Linda, and featured performances from Tom Jones, George Michael, Elvis Costello, Sinead O'Connor, and McCartney himself.
Industry Changes and Challenges
Without the following changes and challenges from April 10, your favorite rock music might not sound the same:
- 1962: Stuart Sutcliffe, original bassist for The Beatles, died of a brain hemorrhage at the age of 21. He had left the band in 1961 to study art in Hamburg, Germany, where he died.
- 2005: After a successful three-year run, MTV aired the final episode of the reality show The Osbournes in the U.K. The show followed the life of Ozzy Osbourne and his family and, at its peak, had eight million viewers.
There's been a lot going on over the years on this day in rock history, but these significant April 10 events are a few that have had a big influence on the industry.
