October 13

 

Folk-rock's most literate poet Paul Simon celebrates his 84th birthday today, the diminutive songwriter whose intricate wordplay and melodic genius created timeless classics from "The Sound of Silence" through "Graceland" across six decades of musical excellence…

 

Chicago's keyboardist and primary songwriter Robert Lamm turns 81 today, the multi-talented musician whose compositions like "Does Anybody Really Know What Time It Is?" and "Saturday in the Park" helped define the band's jazz-rock fusion sound…

 

Rock's Red Rocker Sammy Hagar was born today in 1947, the high-energy frontman who conquered the charts with Montrose, his solo career, and as David Lee Roth's replacement in Van Halen, proving his versatility and enduring appeal…

 

Comedy's most fearless provocateur Lenny Bruce was born on this day in 1925, the groundbreaking standup whose battles with censorship and obscenity laws paved the way for artistic freedom in entertainment, influencing rock's rebellious spirit before his death in 1966…

 

Television lost the man who brought rock and roll into America's living rooms today in 1974 when Ed Sullivan died of esophageal cancer at 73, ending the life of the stone-faced host whose Sunday night variety show had launched Elvis, The Beatles, and countless careers…

 

Wholesome entertainment's sweetheart Marie Osmond celebrates her birthday today, the youngest singing Osmond sibling whose country crossover success and television career proved she was more than just part of the famous Utah family dynasty…

 

Billy Joel's most sophisticated statement arrived today in 1978 with the release of '52nd Street,' the jazz-influenced album featuring "My Life" and "Big Shot" that won the Grammy for Album of the Year and proved the Piano Man's artistic growth.