Why July 20th Matters In Rock History

By iHeartRadio

Published: July 20, 2017 at 2:25 PM

Joey Ramone (1951-2001), singer with US punk band the Ramones, on stage during a live concert performance by the band, with drummer Tommy Ramone in the background behind his drumkit, 1977. The backdrop has the band's 'presidential seal' logo and name. (Photo by Keystone/Hulton Archive/Getty Images)Keystone / Getty Images

It’s July 20th and here are some reasons why this day matters in rock history:

- In 1968, Cream started a four-week run at number one on the album chart with Wheels of Fire.

- In 1974, The Ramones decided to make their drummer, Joey Ramone, the lead vocalist.

- In 1986, Sid and Nancy, the film based on the life of Sex Pistol Sid Vicious, premiered in London.

- In 2009, Jackson Browne settled his lawsuit against 2008 Republican Presidential nominee John McCain, who used Browne’s song “Running on Empty” without permission in TV and Internet ads.

- And in 1996, Soundgarden guitarist Kim Thayil was arrested for assault at a Charlotte, North Carolina Lollapalooza stop. A fan wanted to take his picture and he allegedly slapped her and broke her camera.