October 26 Rock And Roll History

We've got some really interesting rock history facts for you this morning.

On this day in 1962, The Rolling Stones (who were going by The Rollin' Stones), recorded their first demo at Curly Clayton Studios in London. The lineup consisted of Keith Richard, Mick Jagger, Brian Jones, pianist Ian Stewart, and drummer Tony Chapman. They recorded three songs, all of which were covers: "Close Together" by Jimmy Reed, "You Can't Judge a Book by the Cover" by Bo Diddley, and Muddy Waters' "Soon Forgotten."

In 1965, The Beatles are given the MBE (Members of the Most Honorable Order of the British Empire) medal at Buckingham Palace. Many past recipients of the medal gave theirs back in protest. To this, John Lennon said, "Lots of people who complained about us receiving the MBE received theirs for heroism in the war, for killing people. We received ours for entertaining other people. I'd say we deserve ours more."

In 1968 on this day, the Francisco Pop Festival began at Alameda County Fairgrounds, where it was set to take place over two days. The Animals, Deep Purple, Creedence Clearwater Revival, Canned Heat were among the acts who performed there.

In 1970, Janis Joplin's wake was held at the Lion's Share in San Anselmo, California. The singer, who died of an accidental drugs overdose, had set aside $2,500 in her will to throw a wake party when she died. The party was attended by Joplin's sister close friends. She was cremated, and her ashes were scattered from a plane into the Pacific Ocean.

In 1974, English supergroup Bad Company was number one on the Cashbox Best Sellers chart with "Can't Get Enough." It became the band's biggest North American hit.

 And in 1979, AC/DC performed at The Mayfair in England. Def Leppard appeared as their supporting act. The bands were supposed to play the gig the night before, but there was a fire at the venue that afternoon, so the show was cancelled.