1979 Music Events — Verified Historical Highlights
1979 Music Events — Verified Historical Highlights | TakeMeBack.to
- 05 Jan Prince's live debut at Capri Theatre: On January 5, 1979, Prince performed his first solo concert at the Capri Theatre in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The event featured Prince playing multiple instruments, accompanied by his band, and included songs from his debut album 'For You' and unreleased material. Despite the performance's success, Warner Bros. executives felt Prince and his band needed more live experience before embarking on a tour. source: rhino.com
- 08 Jan Today Show introduces new theme song: On January 8, 1979, NBC's Today Show unveiled a new theme song composed by Ray Ellis, titled "This is Today." This bright and sunny piece replaced the previous theme and became closely associated with the late 1970s era of the show, featuring anchors Tom Brokaw and Jane Pauley. The theme was phased out in 1981 when Brokaw left the program. source: networknewsmusic.com
- 09 Jan Music for UNICEF Concert: A Gift of Song: On January 9, 1979, the Music for UNICEF Concert: A Gift of Song was held at the United Nations General Assembly Hall in New York City. This benefit concert aimed to raise funds for UNICEF's world hunger programs and to mark the beginning of the International Year of the Child. The event featured performances by artists such as ABBA, the Bee Gees, Olivia Newton-John, and Rod Stewart, each donating the rights to their songs to UNICEF. The concert was broadcast worldwide, reaching an audience of approximately 300 million people. source: media.un.org
- 11 Jan The Grand Tour musical opens on Broadway: The Grand Tour, a musical by Jerry Herman, premiered on Broadway at the Palace Theatre in New York City on January 11, 1979. The production, which ran until March 4, 1979, featured a cast including Joel Grey, Ron Holgate, and Florence Lacey. Despite its star-studded ensemble, the show had a brief run of 61 performances. source: ibdb.com
- 12 Jan 6th Annual American Music Awards held on January 12, 1979: The 6th Annual American Music Awards took place on January 12, 1979, at the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium in Santa Monica, California. The ceremony was hosted by Donna Summer, Glen Campbell, and Helen Reddy. The event was broadcast on ABC and produced by Dick Clark Productions. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 13 Jan Charlie Daniels hosts Volunteer Jam V music event: On January 13, 1979, Charlie Daniels hosted Volunteer Jam V at Nashville's Municipal Auditorium. This event marked the first live performance of "The Devil Went Down to Georgia" by the Charlie Daniels Band and featured a reunion of Lynyrd Skynyrd members for the first time since the 1977 plane crash. Special guests included Toy Caldwell and George McCorkle from the Marshall Tucker Band, Dobie Gray, The Winters Brothers Band, The Henry Paul Band, Link Wray, and John Prine. source: charliedaniels.com
- 26 Jan Muziekcentrum Vredenburg opens in Utrecht, Netherlands: Muziekcentrum Vredenburg, a prominent music venue in Utrecht, Netherlands, officially opened its doors on January 26, 1979. Designed by architect Herman Hertzberger, the center hosted a variety of concerts, including classical, jazz, pop, and world music. The venue was demolished in 2008, with its main hall integrated into the new TivoliVredenburg complex, which opened in 2014. source: tivolivredenburg.nl
- 27 Jan 36th Golden Globe Awards highlights: The 36th Golden Globe Awards, held on January 27, 1979, honored the best in film and television for 1978. 'Midnight Express' won Best Motion Picture – Drama, while 'Heaven Can Wait' took Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy. In television, '60 Minutes' was named Best Television Series – Drama, and 'Taxi' won Best Television Series – Musical or Comedy. Lucille Ball received the Cecil B. DeMille Award for lifetime achievement. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 29 Jan Emerson, Lake & Palmer disband after 10 years together: Emerson, Lake & Palmer, the progressive rock trio formed in 1970, disbanded in 1979 after a decade of musical collaboration. The band had been experiencing internal tensions, and their final studio album, 'Love Beach,' released in November 1978, was poorly received. Despite attempts to organize a farewell tour, the group made no official announcement of their breakup. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 04 Feb Heart of Glass by Blondie tops UK Singles Chart: On February 4, 1979, Blondie's 'Heart of Glass' was the number one song on the UK Singles Chart, marking the band's first chart-topping single in the UK. The track, known for its fusion of disco and punk elements, was part of their third studio album, Parallel Lines. source: officialcharts.com
- 11 Feb Brandy Norwood's birth date confirmed: Brandy Norwood, an American singer, songwriter, and actress, was born on February 11, 1979. She gained fame in the 1990s with her self-titled debut album and the hit television series 'Moesha.' Brandy is recognized for her influence in R&B music and her contributions to the entertainment industry. source: biography.com
- 12 Feb Saravá musical opens on Broadway: The musical 'Saravá' opened on Broadway on February 12, 1979, at the Mark Hellinger Theatre. Based on Jorge Amado's novel 'Dona Flor and Her Two Husbands,' the production featured music by Mitch Leigh and lyrics by N. Richard Nash. Despite an extensive preview period, the show faced challenges and closed after 101 performances on June 17, 1979. source: ibdb.com
- 14 Feb George Harrison releases self-titled solo album: George Harrison's eighth studio album, 'George Harrison', was released on February 14, 1979, in the United States. The album features tracks like 'Love Comes to Everyone' and 'Not Guilty', and was recorded during 1978 at Harrison's FPSHOT studio in Oxfordshire. It was co-produced by Harrison and Russ Titelman, with contributions from musicians such as Eric Clapton and Steve Winwood. source: georgeharrison.com
- 15 Feb Highlights of the 21st Annual Grammy Awards: The 21st Annual Grammy Awards, held on February 15, 1979, at the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles, celebrated the year's musical achievements. Billy Joel's "Just the Way You Are" won both Record and Song of the Year, marking his first major Grammy wins. The Bee Gees' "Saturday Night Fever" soundtrack secured Album of the Year, underscoring the disco era's prominence. A Taste of Honey was honored as Best New Artist. source: grammy.com
- 19 Feb Vitas: Russian singer profile: Vitas, born Vitaliy Vladasovich Grachyov on February 19, 1979, in Daugavpils, Latvian SSR, is a Russian–Ukrainian singer known for his high-pitched falsetto and eclectic musical style. Raised in Odesa, Ukraine, he began his career in the late 1990s, gaining prominence with his 2000 hit "Opera #2." Vitas has achieved international success, particularly in China, and has released multiple albums blending operatic pop with various genres. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 20 Feb George Harrison releases self-titled album: George Harrison's eighth studio album, 'George Harrison', was released on February 20, 1979, in the United States and on February 23, 1979, in the United Kingdom. The album features the hit single 'Blow Away' and includes 'Not Guilty', a song Harrison originally recorded with The Beatles in 1968. It was co-produced by Harrison and Russ Titelman at Harrison's FPSHOT studio in Oxfordshire. source: beatlesbible.com
- 01 Mar Sweeney Todd Broadway premiere: The musical 'Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street' premiered on Broadway at the Uris Theatre on March 1, 1979. Directed by Harold Prince, the production ran for 557 performances and 19 previews, closing on June 29, 1980. The original cast featured Len Cariou as Sweeney Todd and Angela Lansbury as Mrs. Lovett. The show won eight Tony Awards, including Best Musical. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 04 Mar The Grand Tour musical closes on Broadway: The Grand Tour, a musical by Jerry Herman, closed on Broadway at the Palace Theatre on March 4, 1979, after 61 performances and 17 previews. The production starred Joel Grey, Ron Holgate, and Florence Lacey. source: playbill.com
- 11 Mar Joel Madden's birth date confirmed: Joel Madden, the lead vocalist of the band Good Charlotte, was born on March 11, 1979. He is known for his contributions to the pop-punk music scene and has also appeared as a judge on various talent shows. Madden's influence extends beyond music, as he is involved in various philanthropic efforts. source: biography.com
- 16 Mar Wings Over the World television special: 'Wings Over the World' is a 1979 television music documentary film featuring the rock band Wings. It consists of concert performances from their acclaimed Wings Over the World tour of 1975-1976, together with behind-the-scenes footage. The film was released on 16 March 1979 in the United States on CBS. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 23 Mar Wings release 'Goodnight Tonight' single: On March 23, 1979, Wings released 'Goodnight Tonight' as a non-album single. Written and produced by Paul McCartney, the track showcased a disco-infused sound with a flamenco guitar break. It achieved significant success, reaching number five on both the UK Singles Chart and the US Billboard Hot 100. The B-side featured 'Daytime Nighttime Suffering'. source: paulmccartney.com
- 30 Mar Norah Jones was born on March 30, 1979: Norah Jones, an acclaimed American singer-songwriter and pianist, was born on March 30, 1979, in New York City. She gained fame with her debut album, 'Come Away With Me,' which won multiple Grammy Awards. Jones is known for her unique blend of jazz, pop, and country music. source: biography.com
- 02 Apr Notable births on April 2, 1979: Several notable individuals were born on April 2, 1979, including Jesse Carmichael, an American musician and songwriter known for his work with Maroon 5; Lindy Booth, a Canadian actress recognized for her roles in various television series; and Aslı Tandoğan, a Turkish actress known for her performances in Turkish cinema and television. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 21 Apr Carmelina musical closes on Broadway after 17 performances: The musical 'Carmelina' closed on April 21, 1979, at the St. James Theatre in New York City after 17 performances. Directed by José Ferrer and choreographed by Peter Gennaro, the production featured a cast including Georgia Brown, Cesare Siepi, Grace Keagy, John Michael King, and Josie de Guzman. The show received a Tony nomination for Best Original Score. source: broadwayworld.com
- 22 Apr Birth of musician Daniel Johns: Daniel Johns, the Australian musician and lead singer of the rock band Silverchair, was born on April 22, 1979. He gained fame in the 1990s with the band's hit albums and singles, becoming a significant figure in the Australian music scene. Johns is known for his distinctive voice and songwriting skills, contributing to the band's success and influence in alternative rock. source: britannica.com
- 26 Apr Janne Wirman, Finnish musician, born on April 26, 1979: Janne Viljami "Warman" Wirman is a Finnish keyboardist born on April 26, 1979, in Espoo, Finland. He is best known for his work with the melodic death metal band Children of Bodom and the progressive metal band Warmen. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 27 Apr George Harrison releases 'Love Comes to Everyone' single: On April 27, 1979, George Harrison released 'Love Comes to Everyone' as the second single from his self-titled album. The track, co-produced with Russ Titelman, was initially intended as the lead single but was ultimately released as the second single in the UK, backed by 'Soft-Hearted Hana'. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 01 May Elton John performs in Israel: On May 1, 1979, Elton John became the first Western pop musician to perform in Israel, marking a significant cultural milestone. He held a concert at the Jerusalem Philharmonic Hall, followed by additional performances in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv during his 'A Single Man' tour. source: eltonography.com
- 02 May 14th Academy of Country Music Awards held on May 2, 1979: The 14th Academy of Country Music Awards ceremony took place on May 2, 1979, at the Hollywood Palladium in Los Angeles, California. Hosted by Roy Clark, Barbara Mandrell, and Dennis Weaver, the event honored outstanding achievements in country music. Kenny Rogers received the Entertainer of the Year award, while Barbara Mandrell was named Top Female Vocalist of the Year. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 14 May Art Garfunkel's 'Bright Eyes' tops UK charts: On May 14, 1979, Art Garfunkel's 'Bright Eyes' held the number one position on the UK Singles Chart. The song, written and produced by Mike Batt, was featured in the animated film 'Watership Down' and became the best-selling single of the year in the UK. source: officialcharts.com
- 20 May Elton John's historic USSR tour: Elton John arrived in Moscow on May 20, 1979, to begin his eight-concert tour of the Soviet Union, marking a significant cultural exchange during the Cold War. The tour included performances in Leningrad and Moscow, with the final concert on May 28, 1979, broadcast live on BBC Radio 1. This event was pivotal in introducing Western pop music to the Soviet audience and led to the official release of John's album "A Single Man" in the USSR. source: eltonjohn.com
- 21 May Charlie Daniels Band releases 'The Devil Went Down to Georgia': On May 21, 1979, the Charlie Daniels Band released 'The Devil Went Down to Georgia' as a single from their album 'Million Mile Reflections'. The song became a signature hit for the band, reaching number one on both the U.S. Billboard Hot Country Singles and Canada Country Tracks charts. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 29 May Radio's first rock news network "The Source" premieres: On May 29, 1979, "The Source," considered radio's first rock news network, made its debut, offering a platform dedicated exclusively to rock music and news. source: pugetsoundradio.com
- 31 May Blondie's 'Sunday Girl' tops UK music charts: Blondie's 'Sunday Girl' reached number one on the UK Singles Chart on May 26, 1979, and held the top position for three consecutive weeks. The song was released as the fourth single from their album 'Parallel Lines' and became one of the band's most iconic tracks. source: officialcharts.com
- 02 Jun Donna Summer's 'Hot Stuff' reaches number one on Billboard Hot 100: On June 2, 1979, Donna Summer's "Hot Stuff" topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart, marking her second number-one single in the United States. The song, released on April 13, 1979, showcased a blend of disco and rock elements, featuring a guitar solo by Jeff "Skunk" Baxter. It remained at the top for three non-consecutive weeks and was the seventh biggest song of 1979 in the U.S. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 05 Jun Heinz Erhardt dies in Hamburg at age 70: Heinz Erhardt, the renowned German comedian, musician, and poet, passed away on June 5, 1979, in Hamburg, Germany, at the age of 70. He was interred at the Ohlsdorf Cemetery in Hamburg. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 08 Jun Wings release 'Back to the Egg': On June 8, 1979, Wings released their seventh and final studio album, 'Back to the Egg', in the UK. The album, produced by Paul McCartney and Chris Thomas, reflects contemporary musical trends like new wave and punk, and introduces new members Laurence Juber and Steve Holly. It reached number four on the UK album chart, spending eight weeks on the countdown. source: beatlesbible.com
- 13 Jun The Madwoman of Central Park West opens at 22 Steps Theatre in New York City: On June 13, 1979, 'The Madwoman of Central Park West,' a semi-autobiographical musical comedy starring Phyllis Newman, opened at the 22 Steps Theatre in New York City. The production, directed by Arthur Laurents, featured songs by various composers and lyricists, including Stephen Sondheim and Leonard Bernstein. After 15 previews, the show ran for 85 performances before closing on August 25, 1979. source: ibdb.com
- 14 Jun Little Feat disbands in June 1979: In June 1979, Little Feat announced their disbandment during the recording of their album 'Down on the Farm.' The decision was influenced by creative differences among band members, particularly between founder Lowell George and other members. Shortly after the announcement, George passed away on June 29, 1979, leading to the band's final dissolution. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 17 Jun Saravá musical closes in New York City: The Broadway musical 'Saravá' closed on June 17, 1979, after 101 performances and 38 previews. The production, which opened on February 12, 1979, was based on Jorge Amado's novel 'Dona Flor and Her Two Husbands' and featured music by Mitch Leigh and lyrics by N. Richard Nash. source: broadwayworld.com
- 23 Jun The Knack releases 'My Sharona': On June 23, 1979, The Knack released their hit single 'My Sharona.' The song quickly became a defining track of the late 1970s, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Its catchy melody and distinctive guitar riff contributed to its lasting popularity in rock music history. source: billboard.com
- 25 Jun Launch of the Sony Walkman: The Sony Walkman was launched on June 25, 1979, revolutionizing the way people listened to music. This portable cassette player allowed users to enjoy music on the go, leading to a significant cultural shift in personal audio consumption. The Walkman became an iconic product, influencing the design of future portable music devices. source: britannica.com
- 29 Jun Abs Breen biography: Richard Abidin "Abs" Breen, born on June 29, 1979, in Enfield, London, is an English DJ and musician, best known as a member of the boy band Five. He attended the Italia Conti Stage School in London before starting his musical career. Abs is of Turkish-Irish descent; his father, Turan Sanveren, is Turkish, and his mother, Kay Breen, is Irish. He is professionally trained in ballet and has been involved in music, dancing, rapping, and DJing since childhood. source: imdb.com
- 30 Jun Sony Walkman launched, revolutionizing portable music: On June 30, 1979, Sony released the Walkman, a portable cassette player that changed how people listened to music. This innovative device allowed users to enjoy music on the go, leading to a significant shift in the music industry and consumer habits. The Walkman became a cultural icon and paved the way for future portable music devices. source: britannica.com
- 05 Jul Shane Filan's birth in Sligo, Ireland: Shane Steven Filan, born on July 5, 1979, in Sligo, Ireland, is an Irish singer best known as a member of the pop vocal group Westlife. He is the youngest of seven siblings and began his music career in the late 1990s. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 06 Jul Van McCoy, composer of 'The Hustle,' dies at 39: Van McCoy, renowned for his 1975 hit "The Hustle," passed away on July 6, 1979, at the age of 39. He died at Englewood Hospital in Englewood, New Jersey, after suffering a heart attack at his home on June 29. McCoy was a prolific musician, producer, and songwriter, with approximately 700 song copyrights to his name. His contributions to the music industry included producing for artists like Gladys Knight & the Pips, Aretha Franklin, and The Stylistics. source: washingtonpost.com
- 12 Jul Ian Paice joins Whitesnake: On July 12, 1979, drummer Ian Paice, formerly of Deep Purple, joined Whitesnake during the recording of their second album, 'Lovehunter'. His addition marked a significant lineup change, contributing to the band's evolving sound. Paice remained with Whitesnake until January 1982, participating in albums such as 'Ready an' Willing' (1980), 'Live... in the Heart of the City' (1980), 'Come an' Get It' (1981), and 'Saints & Sinners' (1982). source: en.wikipedia.org
- 27 Jul Broadway Opry '79 opens at St. James Theatre in New York City: 'Broadway Opry '79' was a special concert that premiered on July 27, 1979, at the St. James Theatre in New York City. The production featured performances by notable artists such as Floyd Cramer, Don Gibson, Mickey Newbury, and Tanya Tucker. Originally scheduled to run through September 16, 1979, the show was cut short after only two performances, closing on August 2, 1979. source: ibdb.com
- 28 Jul Lee Minwoo was born on July 28, 1979: Lee Minwoo, a South Korean singer, songwriter, and actor, was born on July 28, 1979. He is best known as a member of the popular boy band Shinhwa, which debuted in 1998 and has had a significant impact on the K-pop industry. Minwoo has also pursued a successful solo career in music and acting. source: kpopmap.com
- 31 Jul But Never Jam Today opens at Longacre Theatre in New York City: 'But Never Jam Today,' a musical adaptation of Lewis Carroll's works, opened on July 31, 1979, at the Longacre Theatre in New York City. The production, directed by Vinnette Carroll, featured an all-black cast and ran for only eight performances before closing on August 5, 1979. source: ibdb.com
- 02 Aug Broadway Opry '79 closes after six performances: 'Broadway Opry '79' was a special concert event that opened on July 27, 1979, at the St. James Theatre in New York City. Despite initial plans for a longer run, the production closed prematurely on August 2, 1979, after only six performances. The show featured performances by artists such as Floyd Cramer, Don Gibson, Mickey Newbury, Tanya Tucker, The Crickets, Waylon Jennings, and The Waylors. source: ibdb.com
- 10 Aug Michael Jackson's 'Off the Wall' album released: Michael Jackson's fifth studio album, 'Off the Wall,' was released on August 10, 1979. This album marked a significant turning point in Jackson's career, showcasing his transition from child star to adult artist. It features hits like 'Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough' and 'Rock with You,' and is credited with helping to establish Jackson as a major force in the music industry. source: rollingstone.com
- 12 Aug Broadway musical 'Whoopee!' closes after 204 performances: The 1979 revival of the musical 'Whoopee!' concluded its run at the ANTA Playhouse in New York City on August 12, 1979, after 204 performances. Directed by Frank Corsaro, the production featured Charles Repole as Henry Williams and Beth Austin as Sally Morgan. The revival received a Tony Award nomination for Best Choreography and a Drama Desk Award nomination for Outstanding Actor in a Musical. source: ibdb.com
- 18 Aug Nick Lowe marries Carlene Carter: On August 18, 1979, British singer-songwriter Nick Lowe married American country singer Carlene Carter, daughter of June Carter Cash and stepdaughter of Johnny Cash. Their wedding was filmed and incorporated into the music video for Lowe's hit song "Cruel to Be Kind." The couple divorced in 1990 but remained friends thereafter. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 20 Aug Vikki Carr marries Michael Nilsson: On August 20, 1979, American singer Vikki Carr married paint company executive Michael Nilsson. Carr, known for her contributions to music, had previously been married to producer and entertainment attorney Dann Moss. source: en.wikipedia-on-ipfs.org
- 22 Aug Led Zeppelin releases 'In Through The Out Door' album: On August 22, 1979, Led Zeppelin released their album 'In Through The Out Door.' This was the band's final studio album before their breakup, showcasing a shift in their musical style with a more synthesizer-driven sound. The album received mixed reviews but included popular tracks like 'All My Love' and 'Fool in the Rain.' source: britannica.com
- 24 Aug The Cars perform at Dr. Pepper Summer Music Festival in Central Park, New York: On August 24, 1979, The Cars headlined the Dr. Pepper Summer Music Festival at Central Park's Wollman Skating Rink in New York City. The concert was part of a series of summer events sponsored by Dr. Pepper, featuring various artists. The New York Times' chief pop music critic, John Rockwell, attended the concert and provided a review, noting the band's eclectic style and the enthusiastic crowd despite the damp and intermittently rainy weather. The concert was well-attended, with some reports suggesting a crowd of half a million people, though such figures are difficult to verify. The setlist included songs like "Good Times Roll," "Let's Go," and "My Best Friend's Girl." source: rhino.com
- 02 Sep I Remember Mama concludes Broadway run: The musical 'I Remember Mama' closed its Broadway run at the Majestic Theatre on September 2, 1979, after 108 performances. The production, which opened on May 31, 1979, featured music by Richard Rodgers, lyrics by Martin Charnin and Raymond Jessel, and a book by Thomas Meehan. It starred Liv Ullmann as Mama, with George Hearn and George S. Irving in supporting roles. source: ibdb.com
- 06 Sep Peter Pan musical revival opens at Lunt-Fontanne Theatre in New York City: A revival of the musical 'Peter Pan' opened at the Lunt-Fontanne Theatre in New York City on September 6, 1979. The production starred Sandy Duncan as Peter Pan and George Rose as Captain Hook, running for 551 performances until January 4, 1981. source: ibdb.com
- 07 Sep Cat Stevens marries Fauzia Mubarak Ali: On September 7, 1979, British musician Cat Stevens, who had converted to Islam and changed his name to Yusuf Islam, married Fauzia Mubarak Ali at the Regent's Park Mosque in London. The couple has five children together. source: billdeyoung.com
- 08 Sep 'My Sharona' reaches number one on US charts: 'My Sharona' by The Knack topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart on September 8, 1979. The song became a defining hit of the late 1970s, known for its catchy guitar riff and memorable lyrics. It remained at the top for six weeks, solidifying The Knack's place in pop music history. source: billboard.com
- 18 Sep The Who performs at Madison Square Garden on September 18, 1979: The Who held a concert at Madison Square Garden in New York City on September 18, 1979, as part of their 1979 U.S. tour. This performance was part of a series of five consecutive sold-out shows at the venue from September 13 to 18, 1979. The setlist for the September 18 concert included songs such as "Substitute," "I Can't Explain," "Baba O'Riley," "Punk and the Godfather," "My Wife," "Sister Disco," "Behind Blue Eyes," "Music Must Change," "Drowned," "Who Are You," "5:15," "Pinball Wizard," "See Me, Feel Me," "Long Live Rock," "My Generation," "Dreaming from the Waist," "Magic Bus," "I Am an Animal," "Won't Get Fooled Again," "The Real Me," "Shakin' All Over," and "Roadrunner." The concert was notable for its energetic performance and marked a significant moment in the band's post-Keith Moon era. source: thewho.com
- 19 Sep MUSE's 'No Nukes' concerts at Madison Square Garden: In September 1979, Musicians United for Safe Energy (MUSE) organized a series of five concerts at Madison Square Garden in New York City to protest nuclear energy. The events featured performances by artists such as Jackson Browne, Graham Nash, Bonnie Raitt, Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band, and Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers. The concerts were recorded and released as the album 'No Nukes: The Muse Concerts for a Non-Nuclear Future' in November 1979. source: musiciansunited4safeenergy.org
- 23 Sep Anti-nuclear rally in New York City’s Battery Park: On September 23, 1979, nearly 200,000 people gathered in Battery Park, New York City, to protest against nuclear power. This event was the largest political protest in the U.S. during the late 1970s, occurring six months after the partial meltdown at the Three Mile Island nuclear reactor in Pennsylvania. The rally was part of a series of 'No Nukes' concerts organized by Musicians United for Safe Energy (MUSE), featuring performances by artists such as Bruce Springsteen, Crosby, Stills & Nash, and Jackson Browne. source: peacebuttons.info
- 25 Sep Evita Broadway premiere: The Broadway production of 'Evita' premiered on September 25, 1979, at the Broadway Theatre in New York City. The musical, featuring music by Andrew Lloyd Webber and lyrics by Tim Rice, tells the story of Eva Perón, the First Lady of Argentina. The original cast included Patti LuPone as Eva, Mandy Patinkin as Che, and Bob Gunton as Perón. The production ran for 1,567 performances before closing on June 26, 1983. source: ibdb.com
- 27 Sep Elton John collapses on stage during Los Angeles concert: On September 27, 1979, during a performance at the Universal Amphitheatre in Los Angeles, Elton John collapsed on stage after experiencing flu symptoms and exhaustion. Despite the incident, he returned after a brief intermission and completed the concert. Witnesses described him as 'white as a sheet,' and an ambulance was called, but he was revived and continued the show. source: ultimateclassicrock.com
- 29 Sep The Police's 'Message in a Bottle' tops UK charts: On September 29, 1979, 'Message in a Bottle' by The Police reached number one on the UK Singles Chart, marking the band's first UK chart-topping single. The song, released on September 7, 1979, was the lead single from their second album, 'Reggatta de Blanc'. It remained at the top for three weeks, solidifying The Police's presence in the UK music scene. source: officialcharts.com
- 03 Oct Birth of actress Shannyn Sossamon: Shannyn Sossamon was born on October 3, 1979, in Honolulu, Hawaii. She is known for her roles in films such as 'A Knight's Tale' and '40 Days and 40 Nights.' Sossamon has also worked in television and music, showcasing her versatility as an artist. source: imdb.com
- 07 Oct Eubie! musical closes on Broadway: The musical revue 'Eubie!' closed at the Ambassador Theatre in New York City on October 7, 1979, after 439 performances. The show, which opened on September 20, 1978, showcased the music of composer Eubie Blake and featured lyrics by various artists, including Noble Sissle and Andy Razaf. source: ibdb.com
- 08 Oct Sugar Babies Broadway premiere: Sugar Babies, a musical revue paying homage to the burlesque era, premiered on Broadway at the Mark Hellinger Theatre on October 8, 1979. The production ran for nearly three years, closing on August 28, 1982, after 1,208 performances. The show featured a cast including Mickey Rooney, Ann Miller, and Ann Jillian. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 10 Oct Fleetwood Mac receives star on Hollywood Walk of Fame: On October 10, 1979, Fleetwood Mac was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame at 6608 Hollywood Boulevard. The ceremony recognized the band's significant contributions to the music industry. The star was awarded to band members Mick Fleetwood, Stevie Nicks, Christine McVie, Lindsey Buckingham, and John McVie. source: walkoffame.com
- 13 Oct Rebecca Clarke, English composer and violist, dies at 93 in New York City: Rebecca Clarke, a renowned English composer and violist, passed away on October 13, 1979, at her home in New York City at the age of 93. Born on August 27, 1886, in Harrow, England, she was celebrated for her chamber music featuring the viola. Clarke's works were recognized for their compositional skill and artistic power, and she was one of the first female professional orchestral players in London. She married composer and pianist James Friskin in 1944 and settled permanently in the United States after World War II. Despite a relatively small output, her music has gained renewed interest in recent decades. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 14 Oct Sony Walkman debuts in the US: The Sony Walkman, a portable cassette player, was introduced to the US market on October 14, 1979. This innovative device revolutionized how people listened to music on the go, paving the way for future portable audio technologies. The Walkman became a cultural icon, influencing music consumption and personal audio devices for decades. source: britannica.com
- 18 Oct Beatlemania stage production opens in London: The musical revue 'Beatlemania' opened in London on October 18, 1979, following its Broadway debut in 1977. The show, which ran until October 17, 1979, in New York City, was known for its exact re-enactments of The Beatles' music and achieved significant success during its run. source: broadwayworld.com
- 20 Oct Bob Dylan's appearance on Saturday Night Live: On October 20, 1979, Bob Dylan made his only appearance as a musical guest on Saturday Night Live, performing three songs from his album 'Slow Train Coming': 'Gotta Serve Somebody', 'I Believe in You', and 'When You Gonna Wake Up'. The episode was hosted by Eric Idle, marking his fourth and final hosting stint on the show. source: nbc.com
- 24 Oct Paul McCartney receives Guinness award: On October 24, 1979, Paul McCartney was honored by the Guinness Book of World Records as the most successful composer and music performer of all time. During a ceremony at the Les Ambassadors Club in London, he was presented with a 'Rhodium Record,' made from one of the world's rarest metals. source: retronewser.com
- 28 Oct Actor Arnold Soboloff dies after performance in 'Peter Pan': Arnold Soboloff, an actor known for his roles in Broadway productions and films, died on October 28, 1979, in New York City. After completing his performance as Mr. Smee in the musical 'Peter Pan' at the Lunt-Fontanne Theater, Soboloff suffered a heart attack backstage and was pronounced dead shortly thereafter. source: imdb.com
- 30 Oct Stevie Wonder's 'Journey Through 'The Secret Life of Plants' soundtrack released: On October 30, 1979, Stevie Wonder released 'Journey Through 'The Secret Life of Plants,' the soundtrack to the documentary 'The Secret Life of Plants,' directed by Walon Green. The album features a mix of instrumental and vocal tracks, including the hit single 'Send One Your Love.' source: en.wikipedia.org
- 16 Nov Paul McCartney releases 'Wonderful Christmastime': Paul McCartney released 'Wonderful Christmastime' as a solo single on November 16, 1979. Recorded during the sessions for his solo album 'McCartney II', the song was McCartney's first solo single since 1971's 'Another Day'. The track was recorded entirely by McCartney, who played all instruments and provided vocals. The accompanying music video was filmed at the Fountain Inn in Ashurst, West Sussex, featuring members of Wings. The song has since become a holiday classic, charting in the top 10 in several countries, including the UK, where it peaked at number six. source: paulmccartney.com
- 17 Nov John Glascock, bassist of Jethro Tull, dies at 28: John Glascock, the bassist and occasional lead vocalist for the rock band Jethro Tull, died on November 17, 1979, at the age of 28. He had been battling a congenital heart valve defect, which was exacerbated by an infection from an abscessed tooth. Glascock had been a member of Jethro Tull since 1976, contributing to albums such as 'Too Old to Rock 'n' Roll: Too Young to Die!' and 'Heavy Horses'. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 21 Nov Kim Dongwan was born on November 21, 1979: Kim Dongwan, a South Korean singer and actor, was born on November 21, 1979. He is best known as a member of the popular boy band Shinhwa, which debuted in 1998 and has had a significant impact on the K-pop industry. In addition to his music career, Dongwan has also appeared in various television dramas and films. source: kpopmap.com
- 25 Nov Thea Gilmore birth: Thea Gilmore, an English singer-songwriter, was born on November 25, 1979, in Oxford, England. She has released over twenty albums since her 1998 debut, 'Burning Dorothy', and is known for her contributions to the alternative and indie music scenes. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 30 Nov Pink Floyd releases 'The Wall': On November 30, 1979, Pink Floyd released their eleventh studio album, 'The Wall', a rock opera exploring themes of isolation and alienation. The album topped the US Billboard 200 chart for 15 weeks and reached number three in the UK. It remains one of the best-selling albums of all time, with over 19 million copies sold in the US between 1979 and 1990. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 03 Dec Birth of singer-songwriter Daniel Bedingfield: Daniel Bedingfield, a British singer-songwriter known for his hit songs in the early 2000s, was born on December 3, 1979. He gained fame with tracks like "Gotta Get Thru This" and "If You're Not the One," which showcased his distinctive pop and R&B style. His music has earned him several awards and a dedicated fan base. source: britannica.com
- 13 Dec Oklahoma! musical revival opens in NYC: The 1979 Broadway revival of 'Oklahoma!' opened at the Palace Theatre in New York City on December 13, 1979. Directed by William Hammerstein II, the production featured original choreography by Agnes de Mille, restaged by Gemze de Lappe. The cast included Christine Andreas as Laurey, Laurence Guittard as Curly, and Christine Ebersole as Ado Annie. The show ran for 293 performances before closing on August 24, 1980. source: rodgersandhammerstein.com
- 14 Dec The Clash releases iconic album 'London Calling': On December 14, 1979, The Clash released their third studio album, 'London Calling.' The album is widely regarded as one of the greatest in rock history, blending punk rock with reggae, ska, and rockabilly influences. Its themes of social unrest and political commentary resonated with listeners, solidifying The Clash's status as a leading band in the punk movement. source: britannica.com
- 15 Dec David Bowie performs on Saturday night live: On December 15, 1979, David Bowie appeared as the musical guest on Saturday Night Live, hosted by Martin Sheen. He performed three songs: "The Man Who Sold the World," "TVC 15," and "Boys Keep Swinging." For "The Man Who Sold the World," Bowie was carried to the front of the stage by Klaus Nomi and Joey Arias, wearing a costume inspired by Tristan Tzara's 1923 play "Le Cœur à gaz." In "TVC 15," he donned a skirt and heels, accompanied by a pink plastic poodle with a TV monitor in its mouth. For "Boys Keep Swinging," Bowie wore a life-size marionette costume, utilizing green screen technology to superimpose a puppet's body over his own. This performance is notable for its avant-garde approach and has been described as a transformative moment in live television. source: davidbowie.com
- 16 Dec Romanian singer Mihai Trăistariu was born: Mihai Trăistariu, a well-known Romanian singer and songwriter, was born on December 16, 1979. He gained fame for his participation in the Eurovision Song Contest and has released several successful albums throughout his career. His music often blends pop and traditional Romanian elements, making him a prominent figure in the Romanian music scene. source: romania-insider.com
- 20 Dec Comin' Uptown musical premieres in New York City: 'Comin' Uptown,' a musical adaptation of Charles Dickens' 'A Christmas Carol,' premiered on December 20, 1979, at the Winter Garden Theatre in New York City. The production featured an all-Black cast, including Gregory Hines as Scrooge, and ran for 45 performances until January 27, 1980. source: ibdb.com
- 26 Dec Concerts for the People of Kampuchea: A benefit concert held at London's Hammersmith Odeon on December 26, 1979, featuring Queen as the sole performer. Organized by Paul McCartney and Kurt Waldheim, the event aimed to raise funds for the victims of war-torn Cambodia. The concert was professionally recorded and filmed, with Queen's performance being released on various formats, including a 2LP set in 1980. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 30 Dec Emerson, Lake & Palmer disbanded in 1979: Emerson, Lake & Palmer (ELP), the progressive rock trio, disbanded in 1979 after a decade together. Their final studio album, 'Love Beach,' was released in November 1978. Despite internal tensions, the band did not officially announce their breakup, and Carl Palmer moved on to form a new band, PM. source: britannica.com
What happened in 1979?
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