This Day in Music

On this day in music, January 8, 2016, David Bowie released his 25th and final studio album, Blackstar. Recorded in secret with his longtime producer, Tony Visconti, the record – which coincided with Bowie’s 69th birthday – served as a final gift to fans, arriving just two days before his death from liver cancer. Drawing from a diverse array of influences, including electronic music, hip-hop, jazz, and art rock, Blackstar is considered a highlight in an already celebrated discography. The album was a critical and commercial success, topping charts around the globe, and becoming Bowie’s only No.1 in the US. It went on to win multiple Grammy Awards and a BRIT for British Album of the Year.

In 1991, 30-year-old Def Leppard guitarist Steve Clark was found dead of an accidental overdose. The celebrated musician – who joined the band in 1978, not long after its formation – can be heard in many of Def Leppard’s biggest hits, including those from 1987’s Hysteria, which was the British group’s creative and commercial peak.

In 1966, The Beatles began a six-week run at the top of the Billboard 200 with Rubber Soul, which marked their seventh chart-topping album in the US. At the same time, their single “We Can Work It Out” sat atop the Billboard Hot 100 – their 11th song to reach the feat.

In 2006, The Strokes landed their first No.1 album in the UK with First Impressions of Earth, their third studio album.

In 1957, Bill Haley & His Comets embarked on Australia’s very first rock’n’roll tour.

In 1979, Rush was named Canada’s official Ambassadors of Music – proving that intricate mastery of prog-rock is the ultimate international language.

BORN ON JANUARY 8

1935: Elvis Presley
1937: Shirley Bassey
1946: Robby Krieger (The Doors)
1947: David Bowie
1958: Steve Garvey (Buzzcocks)
1973: Sean Paul