This Day in Rock History

Cliff Williams, legendary bassist for AC/DC, was born in Romford, Essex, England. He joined AC/DC in 1977 and became integral to their signature sound on classics like "Highway to Hell" and "Back in Black".

Hank Williams Jr. fell 442 feet down Ajax Peak in Montana while mountain climbing. The accident nearly killed him and required years of reconstructive surgery, but he returned to music with a harder rock edge.

The Who delivered an explosive performance at Bill Graham's Fillmore East in New York, cementing their reputation as one of rock's most powerful live acts with Pete Townshend's guitar-smashing theatrics.

Supergroup Cream (Eric Clapton, Jack Bruce, Ginger Baker) performed one of their farewell concerts at The Forum in Los Angeles, marking the end of one of rock's most influential power trios.

The Doors performed what would be their final concert with Jim Morrison at the Warehouse in New Orleans. Morrison's unpredictable behavior during this era marked the beginning of the end for the iconic band.

British art rock pioneers Roxy Music released "Stranded", their third album featuring "Street Life". The album showcased Bryan Ferry's sophisticated rock vision and Brian Eno's final work with the band.

Pink Floyd released their iconic rock opera "The Wall", a double album exploring themes of isolation and personal barriers. It became one of the best-selling albums of all time with classics like "Another Brick in the Wall".

Black Sabbath officially fired vocalist Ozzy Osbourne due to substance abuse issues and creative differences. This led to Ozzy's hugely successful solo career and Ronnie James Dio joining Sabbath.

Canadian progressive rock legends Rush released their second live album "Exit... Stage Left", capturing the band's incredible musicianship during their Moving Pictures tour.

Marty Friedman, virtuoso guitarist who would later join Megadeth, was born in Washington, D.C. His innovative guitar work on albums like "Rust in Peace" redefined thrash metal soloing.

Metallica received their first Grammy nomination for "Master of Puppets", marking a turning point for heavy metal's recognition in mainstream awards. Though they didn't win, it opened doors for metal artists.

Alternative rock innovators Jane's Addiction released their groundbreaking album "Ritual de lo Habitual", featuring "Been Caught Stealing" and pushing the boundaries of alternative music.

Nirvana's groundbreaking album "Nevermind" reached No. 1 on the Billboard 200, dethroning Michael Jackson's "Dangerous" and signaling the mainstream arrival of grunge and alternative rock.

Dave Grohl's post-Nirvana project Foo Fighters released their self-titled debut album. Grohl played all instruments himself, launching one of rock's most successful modern bands.

Seattle grunge titans Soundgarden announced they were breaking up after 12 years together. The band cited musical and personal differences, though they would reunite in 2010.

Legendary Pantera guitarist Dimebag Darrell was tragically shot and killed while performing with Damageplan at the Alrosa Villa club in Columbus, Ohio. The metal community mourned the loss of one of its greatest guitarists.

My Chemical Romance's concept album "The Black Parade" achieved commercial success, bringing emo and theatrical rock to mainstream audiences with the hit single "Welcome to the Black Parade".

The Rolling Stones celebrated their 50th anniversary with a spectacular concert at the O2 Arena in London, joined by special guests including Mick Taylor and Bill Wyman.