Queen Tops the Charts with “Crazy Little Thing Called Love”
On this day in 1980, Queen started a four-week run at the top of the Billboard Hot 100 with “Crazy Little Thing Called Love”, marking their first #1 single in America. Written by Freddie Mercury, the song is a heartfelt tribute to his musical idols, including Elvis Presley and Cliff Richard.
Unlike many of Queen’s elaborate compositions, “Crazy Little Thing Called Love” was written in just a few minutes while Mercury was in a hotel bath. The track’s rockabilly style and vintage energy set it apart from Queen’s more progressive and theatrical sound, showcasing the band’s versatility. The success of the song helped The Game, their 1980 album, become a major commercial triumph.
Fleetwood Mac and The Eagles Triumph at the 20th Grammy Awards
On February 23, 1978, the 20th Annual Grammy Awards took place, recognizing some of the most groundbreaking albums and singles of the era.
That night, Fleetwood Mac took home Album of the Year for their monumental release, ‘Rumours’—a record that would go on to become one of the best-selling albums of all time. Fueled by raw emotion and personal turmoil, the album’s blend of rock, pop, and folk captivated audiences worldwide, solidifying Fleetwood Mac as one of the biggest bands of the late 1970s.
Meanwhile, The Eagles’ “Hotel California” was awarded Record of the Year, further cementing its place in rock history. With its haunting lyrics and legendary guitar solo, the track remains one of the most iconic songs of all time, defining the sound of classic rock.
AC/DC Shoots “It’s a Long Way to the Top (If You Wanna Rock ‘n’ Roll)”
On this day in 1976, AC/DC filmed the music video for “It’s a Long Way to the Top (If You Wanna Rock ‘n’ Roll)” for the Australian music television program ‘Countdown’. The video, featuring the band performing on the back of a flat-bed truck as it rolled through the streets of Melbourne, Australia, became one of the most memorable clips of the era.
The song itself, an anthem about the struggles of making it in the music industry, became a defining track for Bon Scott, AC/DC’s legendary frontman. His charismatic performance and the band’s raw energy in the video cemented their reputation as one of the most electrifying rock acts of the decade.
A Day that rocked the world
February 23 has been a major day in rock history. The impact of these legendary bands continues to shape modern music, inspiring new generations of artists and fans alike.
As we look back at these milestones, one thing is clear—rock music is more than just sound. It’s an evolving story filled with unforgettable moments, creative risks, and timeless artistry. And that’s why we celebrate This Day in Rock History.
