This Day in Music

On this day in music, May 23, 2000, Eminem released his groundbreaking third album, The Marshal Mathers LP. Despite the controversial nature of many of its songs, the semi-autobiographical title was embraced by critics – particularly for its introspective lyricism. One of the fastest-selling albums of all time in the US, The Marshal Mathers LP debuted at the top of the Billboard 200, holding the top spot for eight consecutive weeks. It produced several hits, including the rapper’s first US Top Ten hit, “The Real Slim Shady,” and the international smash “Stan.”

In 1970, Paul McCartney’s solo debut, McCartney began a three-week run at the top of the Billboard 200. The lo-fi album, which featured the enduring hit “Maybe I’m Amazed,” was performed and recorded entirely by the former Beatle.

In 1960, The Everly Brothers began a five-week run at the top of the Billboard Hot 100 with “Cathy’s Clown.” The song, which spent seven weeks at No.1 in the UK, would become the duo’s biggest single, while its unusual structure would influence a host of other artists.

In 1970, the Grateful Dead made their live international debut, appearing at The Hollywood Rock Music Festival in England. Also on the billing were Black Sabbath, Traffic, and Free, among others.

In 1964, with “Can’t Buy Me Love,” legendary jazz vocalist Ella Fitzgerald became the first artist to score a hit with a Beatles cover. The song, which peaked at No.34 on the UK charts, appealed to many parents of the Fab Four’s fans.

BORN ON MAY 23

1928: Rosemary Clooney
1934: Robert Moog (Inventor of the Synthesizer)
1944: Tiki Fulwood (Parliament, Funkadelic)
1953: Rick Fenn (10cc)
1967: Philip Selway (Radiohead)
1967: Junior Waite (Musical Youth)
1972: Maxwell
1974: Jewel