Today in Acoustic-Rock History

1963 – The Beatles play their last gig at the Cavern, the club where Brian Epstein first saw them. On the same day, the Beatles make their first appearance on an American chart when “From Me to You” hits #125 on Billboard’s Top 200.

1966 – While in Los Angeles to perform in concert, the Rolling Stones record “Have You Seen Your Mother, Baby.” The song is released on September 23 and controversy ensues. The sleeve picture shows the group dressed in drag, walking around on New York City’s Park Avenue.

1968 – Mason Williams hits #2 with “Classical Gas.”

1971 – Ringo Starr receives a gold record for “It Don’t Come Easy.”

1971 – Paul McCartney announces the formation of his new band Wings.

1974 – Guitarist Jeff “Skunk” Baxter and drummer Jim Hodder leave Steely Dan. Jeff Porcaro replaces Hodder on drums, while keyboardist Michael McDonald joins the group as well. Both had been part of the group’s touring band.

1974 – Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band open for Anne Murray in New York. It’s the last gig for E Street drummer Ernie “Boom Boom” Carter and keyboardist David Sancious. They are replaced by Max Weinberg and Roy Bittan, respectively.

1985 – Sting’s “If You Love Somebody Set Them Free” peaks at #3.

1988 – Steve Winwood’s “Roll With It” hits #1 on the chart.