1968 Music Events — Verified Historical Highlights
1968 Music Events — Verified Historical Highlights | TakeMeBack.to
- 06 Jan The Beatles' 'Magical Mystery Tour' album tops charts: The Beatles' album 'Magical Mystery Tour' reached the top of the charts in the United States shortly after its release. The album features a mix of songs from the television film of the same name and is known for its experimental style. source: bbc.com
- 10 Jan "Great Balls of Fire" tops charts: Jerry Lee Lewis's hit song "Great Balls of Fire" reached the top of the charts on January 10, 1968. This rock and roll classic solidified Lewis's status as a major figure in the music industry during the 1950s and 1960s. source: billboard.com
- 12 Jan Birth of Heather Mills: Heather Mills, a British media personality and activist, was born on January 12, 1968. She is known for her work in charity and her marriage to musician Paul McCartney, which brought her into the public eye. source: britannica.com
- 13 Jan Johnny Cash's legendary Folsom Prison album recording: On January 13, 1968, Johnny Cash recorded his iconic live album at Folsom State Prison. This performance is celebrated for its raw energy and connection with the incarcerated audience, solidifying Cash's legacy in country music. source: rollingstone.com
- 14 Jan Birth of LL Cool J: LL Cool J, an influential figure in hip-hop and acting, was born James Todd Smith on January 14, 1968, in Bay Shore, New York. He is known for his pioneering contributions to rap music and his successful career in television and film. source: biography.com
- 21 Jan Simon & Garfunkel release 'The Graduate' soundtrack: On January 21, 1968, Simon & Garfunkel released the soundtrack album for the film "The Graduate." The album featured the duo's songs, including "Mrs. Robinson," which became a major hit. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 22 Jan Rowan & Martin's Laugh-In debuts: 'Rowan & Martin's Laugh-In' premiered on January 22, 1968, on NBC. Hosted by comedians Dan Rowan and Dick Martin, the show featured rapid-fire gags, sketches, and musical numbers, becoming one of the most influential television programs of its era. source: britannica.com
- 27 Jan Broadway Musical 'Darling of the Day' Debuts: 'Darling of the Day,' a musical with music by Jule Styne, lyrics by E.Y. Harburg, and a book by Nunnally Johnson, premiered on Broadway at the George Abbott Theatre on January 27, 1968. The production starred Vincent Price as Priam Farll and Patricia Routledge as Alice Challice. Despite the star-studded cast, the show closed after 31 performances on February 24, 1968. source: julestyne.com
- 30 Jan Bobby Goldsboro Records 'Honey': Singer Bobby Goldsboro records his most famous hit song 'Honey', a sentimental ballad that would become a significant pop music moment of the late 1960s.
- 03 Feb Sergio Endrigo Wins Sanremo Music Festival: On February 3, 1968, Sergio Endrigo and Roberto Carlos won the Sanremo Music Festival with the song "Canzone per te." source: teche.rai.it
- 06 Feb Birth of Akira Yamaoka: Akira Yamaoka, the renowned Japanese video game music composer best known for his iconic work on the Silent Hill series, was born. He would later become a highly influential figure in video game music composition.
- 22 Feb Johnny Cash public proposal: On February 22, 1968, Johnny Cash made a public proposal to June Carter during a concert, a moment that became iconic in country music history. Their relationship was a significant part of both their lives and careers, culminating in their marriage later that year. source: rollingstone.com
- 24 Feb Broadway Musical Closes: "Darling of the Day", a Broadway musical, closes at the George Abbott Theatre in New York City after a short run of 31 performances.
- 29 Feb Howard Hanson Symphony Premiere: Howard Hanson's 6th Symphony is premiered, contributing to the classical music landscape of the late 1960s.
- 01 Mar Johnny Cash and June Carter marry in Franklin, Kentucky: On March 1, 1968, country music legends Johnny Cash and June Carter were married in Franklin, Kentucky. The couple had been performing together for years and had one child together, John Carter Cash, born in 1970. They remained married until June's death in May 2003. source: johnnycash.com
- 05 Mar Duchamp and Cage's Musical Chess Performance: On March 5, 1968, artist Marcel Duchamp and composer John Cage performed a 'musical chess match' at Ryerson Polytechnical Institute in Toronto. The event, titled 'Reunion,' featured Duchamp and Cage playing chess on a board equipped with photoresistors, generating sonic input from various compositions. Duchamp quickly defeated Cage, entertaining an amused audience. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 08 Mar Fillmore East Opens: On March 8, 1968, music promoter Bill Graham opened the Fillmore East in New York City's East Village. This venue became a significant hub for rock music, hosting numerous influential artists during its operation. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 15 Mar LIFE Magazine praises Jimi Hendrix: In March 1968, LIFE Magazine featured an article praising Jimi Hendrix, highlighting his innovative guitar techniques and significant impact on the music industry. This recognition contributed to Hendrix's rising prominence in the rock music scene. source: brainyhistory.com
- 23 Mar Joni Mitchell's debut album released: Joni Mitchell's debut studio album, 'Song to a Seagull,' was released on March 23, 1968. Produced by David Crosby, the album was recorded at Sunset Sound in Hollywood, California, and released by Reprise Records. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 30 Mar Celine Dion's birth: Celine Dion, the Canadian singer known for her powerful vocals, was born on March 30, 1968, in Charlemagne, Quebec, Canada. She was the youngest of 14 children in a musically inclined family. source: biography.com
- 02 Apr The Beatles Form Python Music Ltd.: The Beatles established Python Music Ltd., a business entity likely related to their musical and business operations.
- 04 Apr Musical 'Education of Hyman Kaplan' Opens: The musical 'Education of Hyman Kaplan' by Paul Nassau and Oscar Brand, starring Tom Bosley, opened at the Alvin Theater in New York City for a limited run of 28 performances.
- 10 Apr George M! Musical Opens in NYC: The musical 'George M!' opens at the Palace Theater in New York City, running for 435 performances and celebrating the life and work of George M. Cohan.
- 20 Apr Deep Purple's First Performance: The British rock band initially billed as 'Roundabout' debuts in Kastrup, Denmark. After a brief Scandinavian tour, they would change their name to the now-legendary 'Deep Purple', marking the beginning of a significant rock music journey.
- 25 Apr Half a Sixpence opens at Broadhurst Theater NYC for 512 performances: The musical 'Half a Sixpence' premiered at the Broadhurst Theater in New York City on April 25, 1968. It enjoyed a successful run, totaling 512 performances before closing. source: britannica.com
- 01 May Broadway play 'Ben Franklin in Paris' concludes run: The Broadway play 'Ben Franklin in Paris' concluded its run on May 1, 1968. The musical, which focused on the life of Benjamin Franklin, was well-received during its time on stage. It showcased the cultural landscape of the era and contributed to the theatrical scene of the late 1960s. source: ibdb.com
- 03 May Radio Veronica international launch: Radio Veronica, a Dutch offshore radio station, launched its international broadcasts on May 3, 1968. This station played a significant role in the evolution of radio broadcasting in Europe, particularly in the context of pop music. Its launch marked a new era in media and entertainment. source: bbc.com
- 23 May Beatles open Apple Boutique in London: The Beatles opened their Apple Boutique in London on May 23, 1968. This store was part of their Apple Corps venture, aimed at promoting art and music. It featured a variety of products, including clothing and art, reflecting the counterculture of the time. source: bbc.com
- 24 May Rock stars arrested for drug possession: On May 24, 1968, several rock stars were arrested for drug possession in a series of police raids. This event highlighted the growing scrutiny of the rock music scene and its association with drug culture during the late 1960s. source: nytimes.com
- 25 May Rolling Stones release 'Jumpin' Jack Flash': On May 25, 1968, the Rolling Stones released their hit single 'Jumpin' Jack Flash.' This song became one of their most iconic tracks, showcasing their rock and roll style and lyrical prowess. source: bbc.com
- 26 May Remembering Little Willie John: Little Willie John, an influential American R&B singer, passed away on May 26, 1968. His music left a lasting impact on the genre, and he is remembered for hits like 'Fever' and 'Leave Me Alone.' source: britannica.com
- 28 May Kylie Minogue born: On May 28, 1968, Australian singer and actress Kylie Minogue was born in Melbourne, Australia. She gained international fame with her music career and acting roles, becoming a prominent figure in the entertainment industry. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 30 May The Beatles begin White Album recording: On May 30, 1968, The Beatles started recording their self-titled album, commonly known as the White Album. This marked a significant moment in music history, showcasing the band's experimental approach and diverse musical styles. source: rollingstone.com
- 08 Jun Gary Puckett and Union Gap Release 'Lady Will Power': Popular music group Gary Puckett and Union Gap release their single 'Lady Will Power', contributing to the vibrant pop music scene of the late 1960s.
- 13 Jun Birth of David Gray: David Gray, the British singer-songwriter known for his hit songs and distinctive voice, was born on June 13, 1968. He gained fame in the late 1990s with his album 'White Ladder'. source: britannica.com
- 15 Jun Broadway musical 'I Do! I Do!' concludes long run: The Broadway musical 'I Do! I Do!' closed on June 15, 1968, after 560 performances at the 46th Street Theatre. The show, which opened on December 5, 1966, starred Mary Martin and Robert Preston in the original cast. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 07 Jul The Yardbirds disband: On July 7, 1968, the influential British rock band The Yardbirds officially disbanded. Known for their innovative sound and contributions to rock music, the band's breakup marked the end of an era in the music scene of the 1960s. source: britannica.com
- 27 Jul Pink Floyd Releases 'A Saucerful of Secrets' in USA: Pink Floyd's second studio album, 'A Saucerful of Secrets,' was released in the United States on July 27, 1968. The album marked the first appearance of guitarist David Gilmour, who replaced the departing Syd Barrett. It features tracks like 'Jugband Blues' and 'Set the Controls for the Heart of the Sun.' source: en.wikipedia.org
- 29 Jul Gram Parsons Refuses South African Performance: Musician Gram Parsons declined to perform with the Byrds in South Africa, likely as a stance against the apartheid regime's discriminatory policies during this period.
- 31 Aug Private Eye reports on Lennon-Ono album cover: On August 31, 1968, the satirical magazine Private Eye reported that John Lennon and Yoko Ono's upcoming album would feature a nude photograph of the couple on its cover. source: brainyhistory.com
- 06 Sep The Doors begin European tour: On September 6, 1968, The Doors kicked off their first European tour in Amsterdam. This tour helped to solidify their international fame and introduced their music to a broader audience. source: rollingstone.com
- 08 Sep Funny Girl Film Premiere: The musical comedy film 'Funny Girl', starring Barbra Streisand in her breakthrough film role, premieres in theaters. The movie is based on the life of comedienne Fanny Brice and would later earn Streisand an Academy Award for Best Actress.
- 10 Sep Sasha Frere-Jones born in New York City: Sasha Frere-Jones, an American musician, writer, and critic, was born on September 10, 1968, in New York City. He is known for his work as a music critic for The New Yorker and as a member of the band We Are Augustines. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 13 Sep Emma Sjöberg: Swedish model and actress: Emma Sjöberg, later known as Emma Wiklund, was born on September 13, 1968, in Stockholm, Sweden. She became a prominent fashion model in the 1990s, walking the runway for designers such as Thierry Mugler, Christian Lacroix, and Lanvin. She also appeared in George Michael's 1992 music video for "Too Funky" and played police officer Petra in the "Taxi" film series (1998–2007). source: en.wikipedia.org
- 20 Sep Hawaii 5-O television premiere: The iconic police procedural series 'Hawaii 5-O' premiered on CBS, becoming a significant part of American television history. The show focused on an elite police unit in Hawaii and was known for its catchy theme music and memorable catchphrases. source: britannica.com
- 26 Sep Hawaii Five-O television series premieres: The iconic television series Hawaii Five-O premiered on September 26, 1968. The show became known for its catchy theme music and its portrayal of crime in Hawaii. It ran for 12 seasons and became a significant part of American pop culture. source: imdb.com
- 27 Sep Hair musical opens in London's Shaftesbury Theatre: The musical 'Hair' premiered at London's Shaftesbury Theatre on September 27, 1968, following the abolition of theatre censorship in England under the Theatres Act 1968. The production ran for 1,997 performances until its closure in July 1973 due to a roof collapse. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 28 Sep Broadway Musical Closes: The musical "Happy Time" concludes its run at the Broadway Theater in New York City after 286 performances, marking the end of its theatrical journey.
- 14 Oct Beatles Complete White Album: The Beatles finalized their landmark self-titled album, commonly known as the 'White Album', a double album that would become one of the most significant and eclectic works in rock music history.
- 18 Oct John Lennon and Yoko Ono Marijuana Arrest: A police raid on John Lennon and Yoko Ono's flat discovered 168 grains of marijuana. The couple subsequently pleaded guilty and were fined £150, an incident that highlighted the legal challenges faced by musicians during the late 1960s.
- 23 Oct Maggie Flynn Broadway Premiere: The musical 'Maggie Flynn' premiered on Broadway on October 23, 1968. Starring Shirley Jones and Jack Cassidy, the show was set in the 19th century and focused on the lives of Irish immigrants in America. source: ibdb.com
- 25 Oct Led Zeppelin's first live performance: Led Zeppelin made their live debut at the University of Surrey in England on October 25, 1968. The band, formed just months earlier, showcased their unique blend of rock and blues, setting the stage for their future success. source: rollingstone.com
- 11 Nov Lennon and Ono's controversial album cover: On November 11, 1968, John Lennon and Yoko Ono released their avant-garde album 'Unfinished Music No. 1: Two Virgins,' featuring a nude photograph of the couple on the cover. The album's release was met with public outrage, leading distributors to sell it in plain brown wrappers. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 22 Nov The Beatles release White Album: The Beatles released their self-titled double album, commonly known as the White Album, on November 22, 1968. This album features a diverse range of musical styles and is considered one of the band's most influential works. source: britannica.com
- 23 Nov Noël Coward's Sweet Potato musical revue closes: Noël Coward's musical revue 'Sweet Potato' closed on November 23, 1968, after a successful run. The show was known for its witty songs and engaging performances, showcasing Coward's unique style. source: theguardian.com
- 26 Nov The Beatles release White Album: The Beatles released their self-titled double album, commonly known as the 'White Album', on November 26, 1968. This album showcased a diverse range of musical styles and is considered one of the band's most influential works. source: britannica.com
- 29 Nov John Lennon and Yoko Ono release 'Two Virgins': John Lennon and Yoko Ono released their avant-garde album 'Unfinished Music No. 1: Two Virgins' in the UK on November 29, 1968. The album, recorded in May 1968, is known for its experimental sound and controversial nude cover art. source: beatlesbible.com
- 01 Dec Broadway musical premiere of 'Promises, Promises': The Broadway musical 'Promises, Promises' premiered on December 1, 1968. The show, based on the film 'The Apartment,' featured music by Burt Bacharach and lyrics by Hal David, becoming a significant success in its time. source: broadwayworld.com
- 03 Dec Elvis Presley's legendary comeback special: Elvis Presley’s '68 Comeback Special' aired on December 3, 1968, marking his return to live performance after years in Hollywood. The special revitalized his career and showcased his musical talent. source: rollingstone.com
- 04 Dec The Rolling Stones release iconic album *Beggars Banquet*: On December 4, 1968, The Rolling Stones released their album *Beggars Banquet*, which is widely regarded as one of their greatest works. The album features classic tracks such as 'Sympathy for the Devil' and 'Street Fighting Man,' reflecting the social upheaval of the time. Its release marked a significant evolution in the band's musical style. source: rollingstone.com
- 05 Dec Rolling Stones release 'Beggar's Banquet' album: The Rolling Stones released their influential album 'Beggar's Banquet' on December 5, 1968. This album is noted for its raw sound and lyrical depth, featuring songs that addressed contemporary social issues. It is often cited as a turning point in the band's career and in rock music history. source: rollingstone.com
- 06 Dec The Rolling Stones release 'Beggars Banquet': The Rolling Stones released their seventh studio album, 'Beggars Banquet', on December 6, 1968. The album marked a return to their blues roots and included tracks like 'Sympathy for the Devil' and 'Street Fighting Man'. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 08 Dec Graham Nash leaves The Hollies to form Crosby, Stills & Nash: On December 8, 1968, Graham Nash departed The Hollies to join David Crosby and Stephen Stills, forming the supergroup Crosby, Stills & Nash. This decision followed Nash's dissatisfaction with The Hollies' musical direction and his desire to pursue more complex songwriting. The trio's first performance together occurred in Joni Mitchell's living room, leading to their successful collaboration. source: rhino.com
- 11 Dec 'Oliver!' film release in the United States: The film 'Oliver!', based on the 1960 stage musical and Charles Dickens' novel 'Oliver Twist', premiered in the United States on December 11, 1968. Directed by Carol Reed, the film received critical acclaim and won six Academy Awards, including Best Picture. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 12 Dec Rolling Stones film 'Rock and Roll Circus': The Rolling Stones Rock and Roll Circus was a concert film featuring The Rolling Stones, filmed in December 1968. The film was not released until 1996, but it has since been recognized as a significant document of the band's early career. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 14 Dec The Rolling Stones Release 'Beggars Banquet': On December 14, 1968, The Rolling Stones released their album 'Beggars Banquet,' featuring tracks like 'Sympathy for the Devil' and 'Street Fighting Man,' which became iconic in the rock genre. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 28 Dec The Beatles' White Album tops charts: On December 28, 1968, The Beatles' self-titled album, commonly known as the White Album, reached the top of the charts. This double album showcased the band's diverse musical styles and solidified their influence in popular music. source: rollingstone.com
- 30 Dec R&B chart dominance: On December 30, 1968, several artists dominated the R&B charts, reflecting the vibrant music scene of the time. Notable tracks included those by prominent artists, showcasing the genre's influence in popular music. source: billboard.com
What happened in 1968?
Discover what the world looked like in 1968: