This Day in Music
On November 7, 2016, singer, songwriter, novelist, and poet, Leonard Cohen, died at the age of 82. A highly-influential figure, Cohen built his name as a writer in the mid-50s, eventually launching a prolific music career in the late 60s, penning such classic songs as “Suzanne,” “So Long, Marianne,” “Bird on a Wire,” “Dance Me to the End of Love,” and “Hallelujah.” A Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, Cohen was celebrated throughout his life with a myriad of awards, including multiple Junos, Grammys, a BRIT, and a 2010 Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award. In 2011, the Canadian-born artist was invested as a Companion of the Order of Canada (the country’s highest civilian honor).
In 1987, 15-year-old singer Tiffany became the youngest artist to top the Billboard Hot 100 with her cover of “I Think We’re Alone Now” (originally recorded by Tommy James and the Shondells in 1967). The mononymous artist broke a record previously held by Michael Jackson (with 1972’s “Ben”).
In 1967, Elton John and Bernie Taupin signed to Dick James’ DJM Records as in-house songwriters. Because both men were under 21 (Elton was 20 and Taupin was 17), their parents were present as witnesses.
In 1991, guitarist Izzy Stradlin, a founding member of Guns N’ Roses, quit the band after six years. Gilby Clarke stepped in as his replacement.
In 1963, The Beatles made their first of only two appearances in Ireland, playing a two-night engagement at Dublin’s Adelphi Cinema.
BORN ON NOVEMBER 7
1937: Mary Travers (Peter, Paul, and Mary)
1942: Johnny Rivers
1943: Joni Mitchell
1967: Sharleen Spiteri (Texas)
1967: David Guetta
1988: Tinie Tempah
1996: Lorde
