On this day in music history…
In 1972, Elton John released “Crocodile Rock” in the U.S. Written by John and lyricist Bernie Taupin, it was the lead single for John’s Don’t Shoot Me I’m Only the Piano Player album. “Crocodile Rock” went on to top the singles chart, making it John’s first number 1 hit in the States.
In 1973, The Who kicked off the U.S. leg of their Quadrophenia Tour at the Cow Palace in San Francisco. Drummer Keith Moon collapsed on stage twice during the show. Moon and the band returned to the stage about 20 minutes after the first occurrence, but he collapsed behind his kit again shortly after, and was taken to the hospital. With only three songs left, 19-year-old audience member Scot Halpin filled in on drums, joining Roger Daltrey, Pete Townshend, and John Entwistle for “Smokestack Lightning,” “Spoonful,” and “Naked Eye.”
Listen for Herman’s Music Minute weekdays at 6:35am, 12:35pm and 4:35pm on 95.1 STEVE-FM!