1984: Van Halen Tops the Charts with “Jump”
On this day in 1984, Van Halen started a five-week run at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 with “Jump”, the lead single from their sixth studio album, ‘1984’.
Unlike much of their earlier hard rock sound, “Jump” featured heavy use of keyboards, marking a bold departure for the band. The song became Van Halen’s most successful hit, earning a Grammy nomination and securing its place as one of the most recognizable anthems in rock history. David Lee Roth’s soaring vocals and Eddie Van Halen’s iconic synthesizer riff ensured the track’s lasting appeal.
1985: U2 Kicks Off Their First Full North American Arena Tour
On February 25, 1985, U2 embarked on their first full-scale North American arena tour, beginning with a show at the Dallas Reunion Arena in Texas.
The tour supported their album ‘The Unforgettable Fire’, which featured songs like “Pride (In the Name of Love)” and “Bad”. This tour was a turning point for U2, as it solidified their reputation as a major live act and brought their politically charged anthems to a wider audience.
With Bono’s impassioned performances, The Edge’s atmospheric guitar work, and the band’s undeniable chemistry, U2’s rise to global superstardom was well underway. This tour set the stage for their massive success with ‘The Joshua Tree’ just two years later.
The Birth of George Harrison
Today, we celebrate the birth of legendary Beatles guitarist and vocalist George Harrison, born on February 25, 1943. Often referred to as the “quiet Beatle,” Harrison was a key creative force behind many of The Beatles’ most beloved songs, including “Something” and “Here Comes the Sun.”
As a solo artist, Harrison found tremendous success with his No. 1 album ‘All Things Must Pass’, which featured the worldwide hit single “My Sweet Lord”. His post-Beatles career continued to flourish, and he later became a member of The Traveling Wilburys, a supergroup that included Tom Petty, Bob Dylan, Roy Orbison, and Jeff Lynne.
Sadly, George Harrison passed away in 2001 at the age of 58, leaving behind an enduring legacy of music and spirituality that continues to inspire generations.
A Day That Rocked the World
From Van Halen’s chart-topping success to U2’s historic tour launch and the birth of a Beatles legend, February 25 has been a day of major milestones in rock history. The influence of these iconic artists continues to shape the music world, inspiring new generations of musicians 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.
