Born on this day December 25, 1957 in Kent, England, Shane MacGowan, the legendary frontman of The Pogues, is an iconic figure in the world of music. His unique blend of punk ethos with traditional Irish music has created a sound that is truly distinctive and has solidified his place in music history. Born on …
Category: On This Day
Dec 24 2022
Joy Division’s ‘Digital’ and ‘Glass’ Tracks Released on This Day in 1978
Joy Division, an iconic British post-punk band, achieved a unique status in the music industry with their distinctive sound and profound lyrical themes. Two tracks that significantly contributed to their acclaim are ‘Digital’ and ‘Glass’. Released on this day December 24, 1978 as part of A Factory Sample, these tracks resonate with the band’s style …
Dec 23 2022
Adrian Belew and His Unparalleled Influence on Modern Guitarists
Born on this day December 23, 1949 in Covington, Kentucky, Adrian Belew, a prolific and innovative guitarist, has had a profound and unparalleled influence on modern guitarists. His unique approach to the guitar, characterized by experimental sounds and complex digital effects, has pushed the boundaries of the instrument, inspiring a new generation of musicians to explore …
Dec 22 2022
Jean-Michel Basquiat: From Street Art to Masterpieces
Born on this day December 22, 1960 in Brooklyn, New York, Jean-Michel Basquiat, a name that reverberates powerfully in the world of contemporary art, is emblematic of a journey from street art to masterpieces. Basquiat’s artistic prowess transcended the boundaries of conventional artistry, bringing to the forefront a unique blend of neo-expressionism and primitivism. Basquiat …
Dec 21 2022
Achille Vianelli and the Rich Heritage of Italian Landscape Painting
Achille Vianelli, a highly revered 19th-century artist, significantly contributed to the rich heritage of Italian landscape painting. Born on this day December 21, 1803 in southern Italy, Vianelli is renowned for his distinctive watercolor paintings that beautifully capture the essence of the Italian landscape. He skillfully employed the watercolor medium to portray the breathtaking vistas …
Dec 20 2022
Reviving Protest Songs: The Enduring Legacy of Billy Bragg
Born on this day December 20, 1957 in Essex, England, Billy Bragg, a renowned singer, songwriter, musician, author, and activist, holds an enduring legacy in the world of music and social activism. His influence goes beyond his multi-faceted career; he is credited with revitalizing the tradition of protest songs, a genre that uses music as …
Dec 19 2022
Beating to a Different Drum: The Lasting Appeal of ‘The Little Drummer Boy’ by Rankin/Bass
First airing on December 19, 1968, The Little Drummer Boy, an animated television special produced by Arthur Rankin Jr. and Jules Bass, has long been a staple in holiday television programming. Its timeless appeal transcends generations, making it a beloved classic that continues to captivate audiences worldwide even after more than half a century since its initial …
Dec 06 2022
The Jam – “Slow Down” (Live)
Nov 12 2022
On This Day in 2004: The Funeral of DJ John Peel
DJ and radio host John Peel’s funeral was held on this day, November 12, 2004, at St Edmundsbury Cathedral in the town of Bury St Edmunds in Suffolk, England. Among the 1000-plus attendees were many artists, including Pulp’s Jarvis Cocker, The White Stripes, and Undertones singer Feargal Sharkey. His brother Alan Ravenscroft read a eulogy …
Sep 18 2022
The Inspiration Behind “Hey Jude”
On this day September 18, 1996, Julian Lennon made the winning bid of just over $39,000 (£21,000) at Sotheby’s in London for the recording notes for the song “Hey Jude,” which Paul McCartney wrote for young Julian to comfort and encourage him during his parents’ divorce. Originally titled “Hey Jules,” Paul McCartney comments on the song’s …