On This Day
1971: ZZ Top Releases Debut Album
ZZ Top released their first album, creatively titled ‘ZZ Top’s First Album,’ marking the beginning of their journey in the Texas blues-rock scene.
1988: George Harrison Tops the Charts
George Harrison’s rendition of “I’ve Got My Mind Set on You” reached number one on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100, marking his third solo chart-topper and the last by a former Beatle to achieve this feat.
1988: Tina Turner’s Record-Breaking Concert
Tina Turner performed before an estimated 188,000 fans at Rio de Janeiro’s Maracanã Stadium, setting a record for the largest solo artist concert attendance at that time.
1992: Eric Clapton’s Iconic Unplugged Session
Eric Clapton recorded his renowned MTV Unplugged session, featuring acoustic versions of classics like “Tears in Heaven” and “Layla,” which became one of the best-selling live albums ever.
Birthdays
Jennie Kim
Born on January 16, 1996, Jennie Kim is a South Korean singer and rapper, best known as a member of the globally successful girl group BLACKPINK. She has also made a mark with her solo work, showcasing her versatility and influence in the K-pop industry.
Sade Adu
Born on January 16, 1959, Sade Adu is a Nigerian-born British singer-songwriter, renowned for her smooth vocals and timeless hits like ‘Smooth Operator’ and ‘No Ordinary Love.’ Her contributions have left an indelible mark on the soul and R&B genres.
Lin-Manuel Miranda
Born on January 16, 1980, Lin-Manuel Miranda is a celebrated composer, lyricist, and actor, best known for creating and starring in the groundbreaking musicals “Hamilton” and “In the Heights.” His innovative work has earned him multiple Tony Awards and a Pulitzer Prize.
International Music News
Sting’s Royalty Dispute with Former Police Bandmates
Sting has paid over £600,000 to his former Police bandmates amid a legal dispute over unpaid royalties, highlighting the complexities of music rights in the streaming era.
Suzy Bogguss Inducted into Grand Ole Opry
Country music artist Suzy Bogguss is set to be inducted into the Grand Ole Opry by Reba McEntire. This honor recognizes her significant contributions to the country music scene over the years.
New Releases
ASAP Rocky – Don’t Be Dumb
After an eight-year hiatus, ASAP Rocky returns with “Don’t Be Dumb,” an album that showcases his evolution as an artist while staying true to his Harlem roots.
Julianna Barwick & Mary Lattimore – Tragic Magic
This collaborative effort between ambient artist Julianna Barwick and harpist Mary Lattimore offers a mesmerizing blend of ethereal vocals and intricate harp melodies, creating a transcendent listening experience.
Indie Spotlight
peaer – Doppelgänger
Brooklyn-based indie rock band peaer releases “Doppelgänger,” an album that delves into themes of identity and self-reflection, characterized by intricate guitar work and introspective lyrics.
Nicholas Galanin – ‘Stand on My Shoulders’
Multidisciplinary artist Nicholas Galanin has released ‘Stand on My Shoulders,’ his first album in five years. The work is a profound exploration of cultural identity and resilience, blending traditional sounds with contemporary influences.
Holly J Kent – Debut Album
“holly don’t know the way” is a quiet debut about growing up without a map — learning to stay, to leave, and to feel without needing the answers.
These songs live in the in-between: tenderness, confusion, small courage, and the beauty of not knowing yet.