July 27, 1973 – The self-titled debut by the New York Dolls, produced by Todd Rundgren, is released to critical acclaim and mediocre sales.  However, the album serves as an influential precursor to the developing punk rock scene with such songs as “Personality Crisis,” “Trash,” and “Jet Boy.” July 27, 2010 – Growing Up Twisted, starring Twisted Sister’s Dee Snider, … Continue reading CDJ Today: July 27 in Classic Rock →

July 20, 1986 – Van Halen manager Ed Leffler is beaten up at a Dallas hotel by an unknown assailant. July 20, 1975 – The Born To Run tour kicks off at The Palace Theatre in Providence, RI.  This is also the live debut of Steven Van Zandt (Little Steven) as a member of Bruce Springsteen‘s E Street Band. July 20, 1999 – The Ramones make their … Continue reading CDJ Today: July 20 in Classic Rock →

It’s rare that a live album becomes a driving force in a band’s career, but these rock albums all generated either hits, sales, or artistic recognition that changed the arc of the bands’ popularity and influence. In several cases, the bands/artists had not even been well-known in the U.S. prior to their live releases.  Although … Continue reading 12 Most Influential Live Classic Rock Albums →

June 28, 1984 – Bruce Springsteen shoots his “Dancing In The Dark” video in front of 200 extras at the St. Paul Civic center. Courtney Cox, later of “Friends” fame,  plays the front row fan who gets to dance on stage with Bruce. The single (propelled by massive MTV airplay) sells over 1 million copies and also garners Springsteen … Continue reading CDJ Today: June 28 in Classic Rock →

June 21, 1985 – Mötley Crüe release their third studio album Theatre of Pain which goes on to sell over four million copies in the U.S. and spawns the hits “Home Sweet Home” and the remake “Smokin’ In The Boys Room.” June 21, 1975 – Ritchie Blackmore leaves Deep Purple to form Rainbow. Blackmore says, “I wasn’t interested in the direction they were going. I thought … Continue reading CDJ Today: June 21 in Classic Rock →

June 12, 1982 – Remember “No Nukes”?  The rally began at the United Nations and ended on the Great Lawn in New York’s Central Park with performers Bruce Springsteen, Jackson Browne, James Taylor, Linda Ronstadt, and Gary “U.S.” Bonds.  It became the largest political rally in the U.S. with an estimated 750,000 attendees. June 12, 2012 – Pearl Jam’s former chief financial officer Rickey … Continue reading CDJ Today: June 12 in Classic Rock →

June 8, 1969 – Brian Jones is asked to leave the Rolling Stones by Mick Jagger, Keith Richards and Charlie Watts, who visit him at his home to deliver the news personally.  He was fired due to his erratic behavior and his excessive drug use, which made him incapable of playing music. He released a statement saying, “I no longer … Continue reading CDJ Today: June 8 in Classic Rock →

Bruce Springsteen will return to Broadway this summer for a limited run of Springsteen on Broadway performances at the St. James Theatre. The limited engagement begins Saturday, June 26th and marks the re-opening of New York City’s “Great White Way” following the COVID-19 pandemic. “I loved doing Springsteen on Broadway and I’m thrilled to have been asked … Continue reading Bruce Springsteen Announces Return to Broadway →

Nothing says 4th of July like hosting friends and family, grilling on the deck or maybe chilling by the pool, some classic tunes coming through the outdoor speakers… But don’t just hit play on some generic playlist and call it a party – step up your Independence Day party with these 15 Patriotic Classic Rock … Continue reading 15 Patriotic Classic Rock Songs for Your Independence Day Playlist →

June 4, 2001 – Spinal Tap tours the U.S. for its “Back From the Dead Tour” and appears at New York’s Carnegie Hall with a 20-song, 90-minute performance as part of the annual Toyota Comedy Festival. June 4, 1942 – Johnny Mercer, Glenn Wallichs and Buddy DeSylva form Capitol Records. On the same day, Wallichs gives the first free record to Los Angeles disc … Continue reading CDJ Today: June 4 in Classic Rock →