On This Day
1970: The Jackson Five’s First No.1 Hit
On January 31, 1970, The Jackson Five achieved their first No.1 hit on the Billboard Hot 100 with “I Want You Back.” This upbeat tune marked the family’s Motown debut and was originally written with other artists in mind before becoming a signature song for the group.
1976: Queen vs. ABBA
On this day , ABBA’s “Mamma Mia” famously knocked Queen’s “Bohemian Rhapsody” off the #1 spot on the UK charts after a 9-week run.
Birthdays
Justin Timberlake (45):
The “Prince of Pop” hits a milestone birthday today. Fans are speculating on a surprise performance at tomorrow’s Grammy Awards to celebrate.
John Lydon / Johnny Rotten (70):
The iconic Sex Pistols and PiL frontman officially enters his platinum years, remaining the defiant face of the original punk movement.
Philip Glass (89):
The visionary minimalist composer behind Einstein on the Beach celebrates nearly nine decades of influence on modern music.
Marcus Mumford (39):
The lead singer of Mumford & Sons and successful solo artist.
KC (Harry Wayne Casey) (75):
The leader of KC and the Sunshine Band, responsible for the disco anthems that defined the 1970s.
Miyeon (29):
The powerhouse main vocalist of the K-pop group (G)I-DLE.
Phil Manzanera (75):
The legendary guitarist for Roxy Music and long-time collaborator with Pink Floyd’s David Gilmour.
Charlie Musselwhite (82):
One of the most respected figures in blues harmonica history.
International Music News
Springsteen’s New Anthem
Bruce Springsteen released a topical new track today, “Streets of Minneapolis,” written in response to recent social unrest. He performed it last night alongside Tom Morello at a benefit concert.
Shakira’s Record-Breaker
Her Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran tour has officially become the highest-grossing tour by a Hispanic artist in history, surpassing $421 million in ticket sales.
New Releases
Steve Poltz – “Joyride”
Steve Poltz returns with “Joyride,” leaning into his signature mix of humor, heart, and lived-in storytelling, delivering songs that feel conversational and quietly disarming.
Geologist – “Can I Get a Pack of Camel Lights?”
Geologist steps out with “Can I Get a Pack of Camel Lights?” a project rooted in texture and atmosphere that reflects his instinct for building worlds as much as writing songs.
Tyler Ballgame – “For the First Time, Again”
Tyler Ballgame makes a strong impression with “For the First Time, Again,” capturing a sense of reset and reflection that feels especially fitting for the end of the month.
J. Cole – “BIRTHDAY BLIZZARD ’26”
J. Cole marks the moment with “BIRTHDAY BLIZZARD ’26,” a release that underscores his ability to pair sharp perspective with cultural weight.
Scene Notes & Industry Trends
TikTok’s Grammy Sweep
For the upcoming 68th Grammy Awards, every single nominee in the Best New Artist category is a musician who first achieved viral fame on TikTok, highlighting a permanent shift in how music history is now being made.
Indie Spotlight
Alter Bridge – “Alter Bridge”
Alter Bridge releases their eighth studio album, “Alter Bridge,” debuting in the top 4 of four separate national album charts. The album showcases the band’s continued evolution and solidifies their place in the rock genre.