This Week in Classic Rock History
The Beatles — The Beatles’ Christmas Record (Dec 17, 1963)
The Fab Four’s fan-club holiday message became a cherished collectible and kicked off their annual holiday tradition.
The Rolling Stones — Their Satanic Majesties Request (Dec 1967 impact week)
Released earlier in December, this week marks its U.S. chart breakout, with “She’s a Rainbow” starting its climb.
The Who — Quadrophenia U.S. Tour Wrap (Dec 1973)
This week in ’73, the original Quadrophenia tour hit its chaotic home stretch, famously plagued by backing-tape issues, but historically iconic.
George Harrison — Wonderwall Music (Dec 14, 1968 chart impact)
The first-ever solo Beatle album made its mark this week. An experimental and instrumental gem that predated ambient rock by decades.
Elton John — “Step Into Christmas” (Dec 1973 radio surge)
One of rock’s most-played holiday tracks hit heavy rotation this week, becoming an annual classic.
Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers — Greatest Hits Re-Entry Week (Dec 1993)
Their career-defining compilation re-entered the charts this week thanks to the new single “Mary Jane’s Last Dance.”
Bob Dylan — Street-Legal Live Sessions Begin (Dec 1977)
This week marks Dylan’s early rehearsals for the tour that produced some of his most powerful late-’70s live performances.
