On this date in 1962, Pete Best is given his walking papers, then asked to perform later that night with the Beatles. He does not show up.
Also on this date in 1962, Little Stevie Wonder debuts with his first single, "I Call It Pretty Music (But The Old People Call It The Blues)". Another future legend by the name of Marvin Gaye plays drums on the single.
In 1965, David Jones officially changes his stage name to David Bowie.
In 1968, Bruce Springsteen debuts his new band, Earth, at a coffee house in Red Bank, NJ.
In 1975, Peter Gabriel officially announces his departure from Genesis.
On this day in 1977, Elvis Presley dies of heart failure at the age of 42.
BORN ON THIS DAY
Gary Loizzo, member of the American Breed ("Bend Me, Shape Me") and longtime Chicago-area producer/engineer, 1945.
Scott Asheton, drummer for Iggy & The Stooges, 1949.
James Taylor of Kool & The Gang, 1953.
Tim Farriss, guitarist INXS, 1957.
Madonna, 1958.
LL Cool J, 1968.