This Day in Music History: April 20

This Day in Music History: April 20April 20, 2017

We cover all sorts of news, facts and historical and interesting facts that happened on this day in music history.

 

Today: April 20.

 

1957: Elvis Presley started an eight week run at the top of the US singles chart with 'All Shook Up.' The single became the biggest single of 1957, as it sold more than 2 million copies.

 

1968: Deep Purple made their live debut at a concert in Tastrup, Denmark. Formerly known as Roundabout, guitarist Ritchie Blackmore suggested to adjust a new name: Deep Purple, which is named after his grandmother's favorite song (which had been a hit for Peter De Rose), after his grandmother had repeatedly asked if they would play the song.

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1981: John Phillips of The Mamas and the Papas went to prison for five years after he pleaded guilty to drug possession charges. The sentence was suspended after 30 days. He started touring the US lecturing against the various dangers of using drugs.

 

1985: The charity record 'We Are The World' by USA For Africa topped the UK singles chart. The US artists' answer to Band Aid had an all-star cast including musicians and acts like: Stevie Wonder, Bruce Springsteen, Tina Turner, Diana Ross, Bob Dylan, Billy Joel, Daryl Hall, Huey Lewis, Ray Charles and Paul Simon, Michael Jackson and Lionel Richie.

 

1992: 'A Concert For Life' took place at Wembley Stadium as a tribute to Freddie Mercury (Queen) and for aids awareness. Some of the musicians and acts that appeared were: Elton John, David Bowie, Tony Iommi (Black Sabbath), Roger Daltrey, Mick Ronson, James Hetfield, George Michael, Seal, Paul Young, Annie Lennox, Lisa Stansfield, Robert Plant, Joe Elliott and Phil Collen, Axl Rose and Slash.

 

1993: Aerosmith released 'Get A Grip', their 11th studio album. It became their best selling album with sales of more than 20 million copies. The album includes the hits 'Livin' On The Edge' and 'Crazy', and also featured guests musicians Don Henley and Lenny Kravitz.

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1996: English R&B singer Mark Morrison had his first UK No.1 hit with 'Return Of The Mack'. It stayed at the top of the charts for two weeks. The single also reached the No.2 spot in the US.

 

Think we left some interesting fact out? You have anything to add? Is there anything else worth mentioning that happened on this day in music history? Write us in the comments below.

 

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