September 11

 

Grateful Dead drummer Mickey Hart celebrates his 82nd birthday today. The percussionist's world music influences and experimental approach helped expand the band's rhythmic palette beyond traditional rock drumming…

 

British singer-songwriter John Martyn was born on this day in 1948. His innovative blend of folk, jazz, and blues, along with his pioneering use of effects pedals, influenced countless musicians before his death in 2009…

 

Styx guitarist Tommy Shaw turns 72 today. His guitar work and vocals on classics like "Renegade" and "Blue Collar Man" helped define the band's arena rock sound in the 1970s and beyond…

 

Jazz pianist and vocalist Harry Connick Jr. celebrates his 58th birthday today. The New Orleans native has successfully bridged jazz, pop, and Broadway, earning Grammy Awards and critical acclaim across multiple genres…

 

Reggae legend Peter Tosh was tragically murdered during a home invasion at his Jamaican home on this day in 1987. The former Wailer and solo artist was a powerful voice for Rastafarianism and social justice through his music…

 

Tommy Chong, half of the comedy duo Cheech and Chong, was sentenced to nine months in prison on this day in 2003 for selling drug paraphernalia online. The case highlighted the clash between counterculture commerce and federal drug laws…

 

David Bowie made a surprising television appearance on this day in 1977, recording a segment for Bing Crosby's "Merrie Olde Christmas" TV special. Their duet on "Peace on Earth/Little Drummer Boy" became an unlikely holiday classic…

 

Cult singer-songwriter Daniel Johnston died of a suspected heart attack at his Texas home on this day in 2019. His raw, emotionally honest songs influenced indie rock despite his struggles with mental illness…

 

Blues guitarist Robert Hicks, better known as Barbecue Bob, was born on this day in 1902. The Atlanta-based musician was a key figure in the Piedmont blues style before his early death at age 29…

 

Bruce Springsteen released "The Wild, the Innocent & the E Street Shuffle" on this day in 1973. The album showcased the Boss's storytelling prowess and the E Street Band's dynamic sound, setting the stage for his breakthrough success.