July 30

 

Rock and roll lost its founding father today in 2003 when Sam Phillips, the visionary founder of Sun Records, died of respiratory failure in Memphis at 80, ending the life of the man who discovered Elvis and launched countless careers…

 

Blues guitar royalty was born on this day in 1936 when George "Buddy" Guy entered the world, destined to become one of Chicago's most electrifying performers and a major influence on rock guitarists worldwide…

 

We remember smooth jazz icon David Sanborn on his birthday today in 1945, the alto saxophonist whose silky tone graced countless recordings and made him one of the most recognizable instrumentalists in popular music before his death in 2024…

 

Pop crooner Paul Anka celebrates his 84th birthday today, the teen idol turned Vegas mainstay who penned classics like "Diana" and later wrote Frank Sinatra's signature "My Way."…

 

Reggae legend Jimmy Cliff turns 81 today, the Jamaican singer whose anthems like "The Harder They Come" helped bring reggae music to international audiences and earned him Rock and Roll Hall of Fame honors…

 

Art-rock visionary Kate Bush was born today in 1958, the ethereal English songwriter whose theatrical performances and innovative compositions like "Wuthering Heights" created a completely unique musical universe…

 

Folk-rock's next generation continues with Seth Avett, born today in 1980, the Avett Brothers' lead singer whose heartfelt songwriting and energetic performances have brought traditional American music to new audiences…

 

The Rolling Stones conquered America today in 1965 with the US release of their third album 'Out of Our Heads,' featuring their first number-one hit "(I Can't Get No) Satisfaction" and cementing their status as rock royalty.