July 26: A Day of Celebration and Reflection in Rock History
July 26 is a significant date in rock history, marked by both joyous celebrations and somber reflections. The day is notable for the birthdays of some of rock’s legendary artists, as well as for tragic events that impacted the music world.
Celebrating Birthdays
Happy Birthday to Mick Jagger
Today we celebrate the 82nd birthday of Mick Jagger, born in 1943. For over sixty years, Jagger has been the dynamic frontman of the Rolling Stones, a band that stands as a giant in the annals of rock music. While debates about the Stones versus the Beatles may arise, when it comes to career longevity and achievements, the Stones have set a remarkable standard.
The band continues to surprise fans with fresh material, recently releasing a vibrant cover of a song by their musical inspiration, Clifton Chenier.
Happy Birthday to Roger Taylor
Another rock icon celebrating a birthday today is Roger Taylor, the drummer of Queen, who turns 76. A vintage performance clip from 1981 showcases his crucial backing vocals that have become a hallmark of Queen’s live sound. In recent tours alongside Adam Lambert, Taylor has also taken on co-lead vocal responsibilities, particularly on the beloved classic “Under Pressure.”
Milestones in Rock History
1973: ZZ Top’s Breakthrough with ‘Tres Hombres’
On this day in 1973, ZZ Top released their landmark album, Tres Hombres. This was the band’s third studio album and marked their first entry into the Top 10 charts. Featuring the iconic track “La Grange,” along with the dynamic openers “Waitin’ for the Bus” and “Jesus Just Left Chicago,” the album solidified their place in rock history. The vinyl version is especially notable for its stunning gatefold artwork.
1986: James Hetfield’s Skateboarding Mishap
In 1986, James Hetfield of Metallica experienced a backstage accident when he broke his wrist while skateboarding before a show where they were set to open for Ozzy Osbourne. This unfortunate incident forced the band to miss the performance. Hetfield later recounted that while he expected management to disapprove of their skateboarding antics, the response was surprisingly lenient, with the assurance that he could still perform vocals despite his injury. The band quickly adapted by enlisting friend John Marshall to cover rhythm guitar duties while Hetfield focused on vocals.
1977: A Tragic Loss for Led Zeppelin
July 26, 1977, brought devastating news for Robert Plant, as he lost his five-year-old son, Karac, to a sudden illness. This profound loss left Plant heartbroken and questioning his future in music. The band canceled their ongoing tour, and Plant contemplated stepping away from his rock star life to pursue a more grounded existence. He later expressed that the emotional toll of fame often felt at odds with the desire for authenticity.
Ultimately, Plant returned to Led Zeppelin, channeling his grief into the heartfelt track “All My Love,” which served as a tribute to his son and appeared on the band’s final album before the tragic death of drummer John Bonham in 1980.
1990: The Passing of Brett Mydland
On July 26, 1990, the music world mourned the loss of Brett Mydland, the keyboardist for the Grateful Dead. Joining the band before the release of Go To Heaven, Mydland played a pivotal role in the band’s sound and contributed lead vocals to tracks like “Tons of Steel.” His influence and legacy continue to resonate with fans and musicians alike.
2013: Remembering JJ Cale
JJ Cale, the talented songwriter and musician whose compositions, including “After Midnight” and “Cocaine,” became major hits for Eric Clapton, passed away on July 26, 2013, at the age of 74. Cale’s own career gained momentum through Clapton’s covers, and he left an indelible mark on the music industry with his laid-back style, influencing countless artists.
1985: Chevy Chase’s ‘European Vacation’
In the realm of pop culture, July 26, 1985, saw the release of National Lampoon’s European Vacation, the second installment in the beloved Vacation series starring Chevy Chase. While opinions may vary, many fans consider it the third-best entry in the franchise, following the original and Christmas Vacation.
Conclusion
July 26 serves as a poignant reminder of the highs and lows within the rock music community. From the celebrations of legendary artists’ birthdays to the remembrance of those lost, the day encapsulates the rich and varied tapestry of rock history. It’s a time to reflect on the music that has shaped our lives and the artists who have made enduring contributions to the genre.
FAQs
What notable rock artists were born on July 26?
Mick Jagger and Roger Taylor are among the notable rock artists who celebrate their birthdays on July 26.
What significant events in rock history occurred on July 26?
Key events include the release of ZZ Top’s album Tres Hombres in 1973, James Hetfield’s skateboarding accident in 1986, and the tragic death of Robert Plant’s son in 1977.
Who was JJ Cale and why is he significant?
JJ Cale was a songwriter and musician known for writing hits like “After Midnight” and “Cocaine,” which were popularized by Eric Clapton. His style influenced many artists in the rock and blues genres.
