The Temptations earn their first platinum record when their 56th album Phoenix Rising finally sells its millionth copy.
In 1999 The Temptations Earn First Platinum Record
In 1971 Rick Nelson Plays the “Rock & Roll Spectacular” Concert at Madison Square Garden
Rick Nelson (formerly Ricky) plays the “Rock & Roll Spectacular” concert at Madison Square Garden. When he plays some newer songs, the hit-hungry audience boos. Nelson writes the song “Garden Party” about the experience, and it becomes a hit, reviving his career.
In 1990 Eddie Vedder Meets Pearl Jam Bandmates For The First Time
Eddie Vedder flies from his home in San Diego to Seattle, where he meets his Pearl Jam bandmates for the first time and starts a week of recording that becomes the bulk of their debut album, Ten. Vedder was chosen based on vocals he added to a three-song instrumental demo the band made.
In 1962 Johnny Carson’s Tonight Show Makes Its Debut
Johnny Carson’s Tonight Show makes its debut. The theme song (“Johnny’s Theme”) is written by Paul Anka, but as part of the deal, Carson writes some lyrics for the song that are published, but never used, earning him half of the royalties from the song, which are substantial, as the song runs throughout Carson’s 30-year tenure on the show.
In 1991 Nirvana’s Breakthrough Album Nevermind is Released.
The first single, “Smells Like Teen Spirit,” has been out for two weeks and is performing better than expected, so insiders think the album could catch on and maybe sell 500,000 copies or so – enough to earn a Gold record.
It hits that milestone on October 12, and keeps selling. On January 11, 1992, Nevermind supplants Dangerous at the #1 spot, knocking the King Of Pop off his throne. The album eventually sells over 10 million copies in the US while earning rave reviews on it’s way to becoming a rock touchstone. The band seems flummoxed by the sudden success – after all, they’re just a little grunge band from Washington State.