Rock Anniversaries: Van Halen, Queen, Joplin & More

Ocoee-area music fans can rewind to significant moments in rock history. Anniversaries this month recall events from decades past, including band changes, chart-topping hits and tragic losses.

On Oct. 4, 1996, Van Halen announced Gary Cherone, formerly of Extreme, as its new lead singer. This surprised fans who had expected former frontman David Lee Roth to return. Roth had recorded two new songs with the band months earlier. Cherone's tenure yielded one album and one tour. Fan reception proved lukewarm, leading to Roth's eventual return.

Forty-six years ago, on Oct. 6, 1980, Queen's "Another One Bites the Dust" reached number one on the music charts. Michael Jackson influenced the single's release, urging the band to put it out. The song held the top spot for three weeks.

The legendary singer Janis Joplin died tragically on Oct. 6, 1970. She was found dead at the Landmark Hotel in Los Angeles from a heroin overdose. Joplin, 27, joined the "27 Club," a group of influential musicians who died at that age. Her powerful voice left an indelible mark.

Other notable anniversaries include Creedence Clearwater Revival's album "Green River" topping the album charts on Oct. 6, 1969. On Oct. 6, 1968, the rock trio Cream began its announced farewell tour. The band broke up afterward but reunited for performances in 2005.