#1 R&B Song 1959: “Poison Ivy,” the Coasters
Born: Arlene Smith (the Chantels), 1941
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1959 The Miracles charted for the first time with “Bad Girl,” reaching 393 pop. The new group out of Detroit was originally called the Matadors.
1963 The Impressions charted on their way to their biggest hit when “It’s All Right” reached #11 R&B and #4 pop. The group created the song backstage at a Nashville concert.
1963 Little Richard performed on a British tour with the Everly Brothers.
1974 The Pointer Sisters single “Fairytale” charted, reaching #13 pop and #37 country. The group was on tour at the time and by no small coincidence wound up playing at Nashville’s Grand Ole Opry.
1985 Comedian Eddie Murphy charted with “Party All the Time,” the dance/novelty classic written and produced by Rick James, reaching #8 R&B and #2 pop.
1995 Wu-Tang Clan, Mary J. Blige, Jodeci, Brandy, Salt-N-Pepa, Run-D.M.C., and the Notorious B.I.G., among others, performed in an all-star show at Madison Square Garden in New York.
Ann
