June 25

 

The world lost the King of Pop on this day in 2009 when Michael Jackson passed away at age 50 from cardiac arrest at his Beverly Hills mansion. His death shocked fans globally and marked the end of one of music's most extraordinary careers…

 

Legendary songwriter Boudleaux Bryant died today in 1987. Along with his wife Felice, he crafted timeless hits for The Everly Brothers including "Bye Bye Love" and "Wake Up Little Susie" that helped define early rock and roll…

 

Red Hot Chili Peppers suffered a devastating loss on this day in 1988 when guitarist Hillel Slovak died from a heroin overdose. The founding member's funk-rock style had been instrumental in shaping the band's early sound…

 

Country superstar Keith Urban wed actress Nicole Kidman today in 2006 at an intimate ceremony in Sydney, Australia. The musical power couple's wedding became one of entertainment's most celebrated unions…

 

Singer-songwriter Carly Simon celebrates her 82nd birthday today. The publishing heiress turned musical storyteller gave us classics like "You're So Vain" and "Anticipation" with her confessional lyrics and distinctive voice…

 

Pop icon George Michael was born on this day in 1963. From Wham!'s infectious dance-pop to his mature solo career, he became one of Britain's most successful artists before his death on Christmas Day 2016…

 

The music industry mourned producer Arif Mardin today in 2006 when he lost his battle with pancreatic cancer at age 74. His sophisticated arrangements enhanced recordings by everyone from Aretha Franklin to Norah Jones…

 

Multi-instrumentalist Ian McDonald was born on this date in 1946. His saxophone and keyboard work helped launch both King Crimson's progressive rock innovations and Foreigner's arena rock success…

 

Prince released the "Purple Rain" soundtrack on this day in 1984, creating both a cinematic triumph and one of the greatest albums in pop history. The record spent 24 consecutive weeks at number one