From the Desk of CLASSICKONG
Welcome back, friends, to another edition of This Day in Music History, right here at WTSG-DB!
It’s Saturday, October 24th, 2026, and we’ve got some terrific music history to celebrate!
Today we’re talking Santana, Pink Floyd, James Brown, Michael Jackson, Anthrax, and the remarkable songwriting of Don McLean.
We’ve also got birthdays for some legendary musicians, including Ted Templeman, Bill Wyman, John Bettis, and The Big Bopper.
And we’ll remember the great Fats Domino and pay a special tribute to country music legend John Anderson, who passed away earlier this week.
But first, let’s recognize a couple of today’s National Days!
National Bologna Day!
ROFLMAO!
Oh, Lord, I can already imagine what Honey’s cooking up in the WTSG-DB diner today. Something tells me CLASSICKONG is about to get a sandwich he won’t soon forget!
And today is also Make a Difference Day, a reminder that even the smallest act of kindness can have a lasting impact on somebody’s life.
We’ll have a little more to say about that before we’re finished.
Now, let’s turn up the music!
1962 – James Brown Records Live at the Apollo
HIT ME! GOOD GOD!
On October 24, 1962, James Brown and the Famous Flames took the stage at Harlem’s legendary Apollo Theater to record what would become one of the greatest live albums in music history.
Released in 1963 on King Records, Live at the Apollo captured Brown at his electrifying best.
Songs like “I’ll Go Crazy,” “Try Me,” and “Lost Someone” demonstrated just how powerful a live performance could be.
And what a band!
Brown demanded precision from his musicians. Every beat, every horn accent, every stop and start had to be right.
As somebody who appreciates a tight rhythm section, I’ve always admired that kind of discipline.
James Brown wasn’t simply singing songs. He was leading a musical machine, and every musician had an important job.
The result was an album that helped redefine what a live recording could accomplish.
The Godfather of Soul, ladies and gentlemen! HIT ME!
1970 – Santana Takes Abraxas to No. 1
On October 24, 1970, Santana’s second studio album, Abraxas, reached No. 1 on the Billboard album chart.
Released on Columbia Records, this album remains one of the finest examples of rock, blues, and Latin music coming together.
“Black Magic Woman,” “Oye Como Va,” and “Samba Pa Ti” are timeless recordings.
And let’s give some credit to that remarkable band.
Carlos Santana’s guitar, Gregg Rolie’s organ and vocals, Michael Shrieve’s drums, and the extraordinary percussion work of José Areas and Michael Carabello created a sound unlike anything else on the radio.
There’s something almost hypnotic about the grooves on this record.
And Carlos? Good grief, that man could make a guitar sing!
I’ve always loved Santana’s early recordings, particularly Santana III (1971, Columbia Records), but Abraxas is an absolute masterpiece.
Great music doesn’t always need a thousand notes. Sometimes it just needs the right groove, played by musicians who know how to listen to one another.
1970 – Pink Floyd and a Cow Named Lulubelle III
Also on October 24, Pink Floyd reached No. 1 on the UK album chart for the first time with Atom Heart Mother (1970, Harvest Records).
The album found the band experimenting with orchestral arrangements, progressive rock, and unusual musical ideas.
But let’s talk about that album cover!
You know the one. A cow standing in a field, staring at the camera.
Well, friends, that cow actually had a name.
Lulubelle III!
ROFLMAO!
Photographer Storm Thorgerson photographed the cow in the English countryside, creating one of rock music’s most recognizable album covers.
No band name. No album title. Just Lulubelle!
Imagine that cow wandering around the pasture, completely unaware that she was about to become an international rock-and-roll celebrity.
I wonder if the other cows asked for her autograph?
HAHAHA!
And underneath that unusual cover was a band continuing its journey toward the musical heights it would reach with The Dark Side of the Moon (1973, Harvest Records in the UK and Capitol Records in the U.S.).
1971 – Don McLean Releases American Pie
Now, friends, here’s one that deserves some special attention.
On October 24, 1971, Don McLean released his second studio album, American Pie, on United Artists Records.
And what a remarkable piece of musical history.
The album featured “Vincent,” a beautiful tribute inspired by Vincent van Gogh, and of course, the legendary title track.
“American Pie.”
An eight-and-a-half-minute journey through American music, culture, memories, and changing times.
And here’s something I’ve always wondered.
Can you imagine being somebody OTHER than Don McLean and having to remember every single word of that song on stage?
ROFLMAO!
Buddy, that’s not a song. That’s a BOOK!
You’d need a road map, a lunch break, and possibly a bookmark just to make it to the final chorus!
HAHAHA!
But seriously, what an extraordinary achievement in songwriting.
At the heart of “American Pie” is the memory of February 3, 1959, when Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, and J.P. Richardson, better known as The Big Bopper, died in a plane crash near Clear Lake, Iowa.
McLean uses that tragedy as the starting point for a much larger reflection on the loss of innocence and the changes that swept through American culture.
Not every reference in the song has one universally accepted interpretation, and perhaps that’s part of its lasting appeal.
It invites us to listen, think, remember, and feel.
And the tenderness of those opening verses still gets to me.
There are songs you enjoy, songs you remember, and then there are songs that become part of your life.
“American Pie” belongs in that last category.
1987 – Michael Jackson Asks, “Who’s Bad?”
On October 24, 1987, Michael Jackson’s “Bad” reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Released on Epic Records as the title track from Bad (1987), the song was produced by Quincy Jones and Michael Jackson.
WHO’S BAD?!
HAHAHA!
Now, friends, here’s something younger listeners might find a little confusing.
When Michael Jackson asked, “Who’s Bad?” he wasn’t asking who’d been misbehaving!
Back then, calling somebody BAD could actually mean they were REALLY GOOD!
Cool. Tough. Impressive. Somebody you didn’t want to mess with!
So when Michael asked, “Who’s Bad?” what he was really saying was, “Who’s the man around here?”
And apparently, Michael already knew the answer!
ROFLMAO!
Imagine trying to explain that to your grandmother.
“Grandma, Michael Jackson is BAD!”
“Well, then somebody needs to have a talk with that young man!”
HAHAHA!
With its driving rhythm, powerful horn arrangements, and unforgettable hook, “Bad” became another enormous hit for the King of Pop.
And let’s not forget the music video, directed by Martin Scorsese.
Michael Jackson understood that music wasn’t just something you heard. It could also be something you watched and experienced.
Whether you were a fan of his dancing, his singing, or those remarkable productions, there’s no denying the impact he made on popular music.
1995 – Anthrax Releases Stomp 442
Time to turn up those amplifiers, friends!
On October 24, 1995, Anthrax released their seventh studio album, Stomp 442, on Elektra Records.
This was the band’s second studio album with John Bush handling lead vocals.
Featuring tracks like “Fueled,” “Nothing,” and “Random Acts of Senseless Violence,” the album continued Anthrax’s move toward a heavier, groove-driven sound.
And Charlie Benante behind the drums?
OH YEAH!
Benante has always been a tremendous player, combining speed, power, and precision with some seriously creative rhythms.
I’ve always appreciated a drummer who understands how to make a heavy riff feel even heavier.
And speaking of Anthrax, these guys are STILL bringing the thunder!
Just last month, on September 18, 2026, Anthrax released their long-awaited twelfth studio album, Cursum Perficio, on Megaforce Records in the United States.
Their first new studio album in ten years!
The title is Latin and can be translated as “I complete my journey.”
And buddy, the album artwork is something else!
The band even released a special Target-exclusive CD edition that included a fabric patch featuring the album cover.
Now THAT’S a pretty cool little bonus for the collectors out there!
Thirty-one years after Stomp 442, Anthrax continues to remind us why they’re one of thrash metal’s most enduring bands.
TURN IT UP!
Musical Birthdays – October 24
Ted Templeman – Legendary Record Producer
Happy birthday to one of the great producers in rock history, Ted Templeman, born October 24, 1944!
If you’ve ever enjoyed Montrose, Van Halen, or the Doobie Brothers, you’ve heard his work.
And what a remarkable collection of albums he helped create!
A few landmarks from his production career:
- Montrose – Montrose (1973, Warner Bros. Records) — Featuring “Rock Candy,” “Bad Motor Scooter,” and “Rock the Nation.”
- Van Halen – Van Halen (1978, Warner Bros. Records) — Featuring “Runnin’ with the Devil,” “Eruption,” and “Ain’t Talkin’ ‘Bout Love.”
- The Doobie Brothers – The Captain and Me (1973, Warner Bros. Records) — Featuring “Long Train Runnin’” and “China Grove.”
Now THAT’S a résumé!
And buddy, let’s talk about that Montrose debut.
“Rock Candy” is one of the greatest slow, heavy grooves in hard rock.
Denny Carmassi’s drums, Ronnie Montrose’s guitar, and Sammy Hagar’s vocals made that record something special.
And then there’s “Bad Motor Scooter.”
OH YEAH!
Now imagine Meat Loaf and Jim Steinman getting their hands on THAT song!
ROFLMAO!
Picture it, friends.
Thunder crashing! Lightning flashing! A motorcycle roaring through the night!
And there I am, riding my Bad Motor Scooter with Honey hanging on behind me!
The orchestra kicks in, the guitars are screaming, and Meat Loaf is belting out the chorus like the fate of the entire world depends on it!
And Honey?
She’s probably hollering, “SLOW DOWN, YOU BIG APE!”
HAHAHAHA!
Now THAT would be a rock-and-roll production!
Seriously, Ted Templeman helped shape some of the most memorable recordings in rock history.
Happy birthday, Ted!
John Bettis – Born October 24, 1946
Happy 80th birthday to songwriter John Bettis!
Bettis collaborated with Richard Carpenter on some of the Carpenters’ most beautiful recordings.
Just look at these wonderful songs and the albums that brought them to us:
- “Top of the World” – A Song for You (1972, A&M Records) — Later became a No. 1 single in 1973.
- “Goodbye to Love” – A Song for You (1972, A&M Records) — One of the Carpenters’ most powerful recordings.
- “Yesterday Once More” – Now & Then (1973, A&M Records) — A beautiful song about the memories music brings back.
- “Human Nature” – Michael Jackson’s Thriller (1982, Epic Records) — Co-written by Bettis and Steve Porcaro.
And let’s not forget “Crazy for You,” recorded by Madonna for the Vision Quest soundtrack (1985, Geffen Records).
That’s an extraordinary collection of songwriting credits!
I’ve always loved “Top of the World.”
Karen Carpenter’s voice, Richard’s arrangements, and those beautiful lyrics created something truly timeless.
Sometimes a song doesn’t need to be complicated to be extraordinary.
It just needs to make you feel something.
And John Bettis certainly knew how to do that.
Bill Wyman – Born October 24, 1936
NINETY YEARS OLD!
Happy birthday to former Rolling Stones bassist Bill Wyman!
Wyman helped anchor the Stones’ rhythm section from 1962 until 1993.
Alongside Charlie Watts, he provided the steady foundation beneath some of rock and roll’s greatest recordings.
Just listen to Let It Bleed (1969, Decca Records in the UK and London Records in the U.S.) or Sticky Fingers (1971, Rolling Stones Records).
And that’s something I’ve always respected.
A great rhythm section isn’t about showing off. It’s about serving the song.
Bill Wyman understands that!
Ninety years of life and an incredible place in rock history.
Happy birthday, Bill!
The Big Bopper – Born October 24, 1930
HELLOOOOO, BABY!
ROFLMAO!
Today we’re remembering J.P. Richardson, better known as The Big Bopper, born on this date in 1930.
Now THAT is a nickname!
Sounds like somebody who should’ve been a professional wrestler!
Ladies and gentlemen, coming down the aisle…
THE BIIIIIG BOPPER!
And his finishing move?
THE CHANTILLY SLAM!
HAHAHAHA!
But behind that larger-than-life personality was a talented radio announcer, singer, and songwriter.
His 1958 hit “Chantilly Lace,” released on Mercury Records, remains one of rock and roll’s funniest early recordings.
I remember my dad singing and playing that song, and buddy, he could make it hilarious.
Those are wonderful memories.
And here’s something some folks may not know.
Richardson also wrote “White Lightning,” which became George Jones’s first No. 1 country hit in 1959.
He also wrote “Running Bear,” which Johnny Preston took to No. 1 in 1960.
Sadly, Richardson never lived to see those songs reach the top of the charts.
He was only 28 when he died alongside Buddy Holly and Ritchie Valens on February 3, 1959.
And that brings us right back to Don McLean’s “American Pie.”
What a remarkable connection between two of today’s stories.
The Big Bopper made us laugh, and generations later, his music is still doing exactly that.
Rest in peace, J.P. Thank you for the laughter.
2010 – Don Williams Joins the Country Music Hall of Fame
On October 24, 2010, country music’s beloved Gentle Giant, Don Williams, was honored as a member of the Country Music Hall of Fame during its Medallion Ceremony.
And what a voice this man had.
Warm, smooth, comforting, and unmistakably country.
“Tulsa Time,” “Lord, I Hope This Day Is Good,” “You’re My Best Friend,” and “I Believe in You.”
GOOD LORD! What a collection of songs!
Don didn’t need flashy arrangements or vocal gymnastics.
He could sit down, sing a beautiful song, and make you feel like everything was going to be all right.
Released in 1981 on MCA Records, “Lord, I Hope This Day Is Good” remains one of my favorites. It appeared on his album Especially for You (1981, MCA Records).
Sometimes that’s all we’re asking for, isn’t it?
Just a good day.
And you know, friends, there’s something especially meaningful about celebrating Don Williams today while also remembering John Anderson.
Two very different country voices, but both had that rare ability to make you feel like you were listening to somebody you’d known your whole life.
There was a calmness, a warmth, and a sincerity in their singing that you just can’t manufacture in a recording studio.
It has to come from somewhere deeper.
Don Williams passed away on September 8, 2017, but his music remains a wonderful part of traditional country history.
And as Don might remind us, not everybody’s living on Tulsa Time.
Remembering Fats Domino – 1928–2017
On October 24, 2017, we lost one of the true pioneers of rock and roll, Antoine “Fats” Domino, at the age of 89.
Born and raised in New Orleans, Louisiana, Fats was one of the musicians who helped bring the city’s remarkable rhythm-and-blues sound to audiences around the world.
And what a musical treasure he was.
“Blueberry Hill,” “Ain’t That a Shame,” “I’m Walkin’,” “Blue Monday,” and so many more.
That wonderful New Orleans piano style, those rolling rhythms, and that warm, friendly voice helped shape the sound of early rock and roll.
Fats could make a piano swing like nobody’s business.
And his hometown was an essential part of that sound.
New Orleans was a melting pot of jazz, blues, gospel, and rhythm and blues. Fats took those musical influences and helped create records that crossed generations and musical boundaries.
His recording of “Blueberry Hill,” released in 1956 on Imperial Records, remains one of the most recognizable love songs ever recorded.
It’s a song about finding somebody who makes a difference in your life.
Somebody who gives you a reason to smile.
And that’s something Fats Domino gave millions of listeners through his music.
A little joy, a little romance, and a whole lot of that unmistakable New Orleans rhythm.
Rest in peace, Fats. Thanks for helping give rock and roll its heartbeat.
A Special Remembrance – John Anderson (1954–2026)
Country music lost one of its most distinctive and beloved voices this week with the passing of John Anderson on October 21, 2026, at the age of 71.
And friends, this one hurts.
The first time I remember hearing John was on “Swingin’.”
What a funny, wonderful song!
And what an unmistakable voice.
Then came songs like “Seminole Wind,” “Straight Tequila Night,” and the beautiful “I Wish I Could Have Been There.”
“Seminole Wind” has always been one of my favorites.
There’s something haunting about that melody, the lyrics, and the way John delivers every word.
Once that song gets into your head, good luck getting it out.
And that’s great songwriting.
But there was something else about John Anderson.
There was warmth and comfort in his voice.
In “Seminole Wind,” he sang about calling on someone like a long-lost friend.
And that’s exactly what John’s voice sounded like to so many of us.
An old friend.
Beyond the awards, the records, and his place in the Country Music Hall of Fame, John was also a husband, father, and grandfather.
Our hearts go out to the family and friends who loved him.
He made us laugh with “Swingin’.” He moved us with “Seminole Wind.” And he touched our hearts with “I Wish I Could Have Been There.”
Thank you for all those wonderful songs, John. You made a difference in our lives.
Rest in peace, Brother John. ❤️
National Bologna Day – October 24
Well, friends, after all that wonderful music, I suppose it’s time for a little lunch!
Because as we mentioned earlier, today is National Bologna Day!
ROFLMAO!
And I can just picture Honey coming out of the WTSG-DB diner kitchen carrying a bologna sandwich the size of a truck tire!
She sets it down in front of CLASSICKONG and says:
“Here ya go, big guy! Lunch is served!”
And CK looks at that monster sandwich and says:
“Honey, I’ve been accused of being full of baloney my whole life… but THIS is ridiculous!”
HAHAHAHA!
Happy National Bologna Day, everybody!
The Final Spin – Making a Difference
You know, friends, since today is Make a Difference Day, I’ve been thinking about something.
Not everybody makes a difference by doing something big. Sometimes it’s as simple as making somebody laugh, giving them a little hope, or putting a song in their heart.
The Big Bopper made us laugh with “Chantilly Lace.” Fats Domino found his thrill on “Blueberry Hill.” Don Williams reminded us that sometimes all we’re asking for is a good day.
And this week, we said goodbye to John Anderson, a man whose voice brought warmth and comfort to so many of us.
In “Seminole Wind,” John sang about calling on someone like a long-lost friend.
And isn’t that what great music sometimes feels like?
An old friend stopping by to remind us of the people, places, and moments that have made our lives special.
Don McLean understood that, too.
With “American Pie,” he reminded us just how much music, and the people who make it, can mean to our lives.
You know, maybe we’re not all living on Tulsa Time today, but we’re ALL living on limited time.
And that’s something worth remembering.
Every day, right here at WTSG-DB, we celebrate musicians who made a difference in our lives. Some made us laugh. Some made us cry. And some gave us songs that still bring back memories of people we dearly love.
Maybe we can’t all write a masterpiece like “American Pie.” But every one of us can make a difference in somebody’s life.
A kind word. A helping hand. A little understanding. Sometimes that’s all it takes.
And as Don McLean wondered in that beautiful song, maybe music really can save our mortal souls.
I’d like to think it can.
And that’s gonna do it for today, friends. Hopefully I’ve maybe put a smile on your face, and a song in your heart. Take care of yourselves, help others when you can, and always, always, keep the music playing.
Listen to Today’s Broadcast/Podcast
Enjoy the show, and don’t forget to follow This Day in Music History on Spotify so you don’t miss our daily journey through the music we love.
References & Further Reading
- This Day in Music – October 24
- Pink Floyd – Atom Heart Mother
- Don McLean – Official Website
- Anthrax – Official Website
- Anthrax – Cursum Perficio Album Announcement
- Ted Templeman – Producer Profile
- John Bettis – Songwriters Hall of Fame
- The Big Bopper – Texas State Historical Association
- Don Williams – Country Music Hall of Fame
- John Anderson – Country Music Hall of Fame
- National Day Calendar – October 24
© 2026 WTSG-DB Digital Broadcasting / CLASSICKONG. All rights reserved.
