Facts Finder (2025)

12/08/2025

Angus Young, born March 31, 1955, in Glasgow, Scotland, and raised in Australia, is the electrifying lead guitarist and co-founder of AC/DC. Known for his energetic performances and signature schoolboy outfit, Angus revolutionized rock music with raw, aggressive guitar riffs that defined hard rock and heavy metal. Along with his brother Malcolm Young, Angus launched AC/DC in 1973. The band quickly gained a reputation for their high-voltage live shows and hard-hitting albums like High Voltage, Let There Be Rock, and Powerage. His bluesy, high-octane style made him an icon of 1970s rock.

The 1980 release of Back in Black—a tribute to late lead singer Bon Scott—catapulted AC/DC to unprecedented heights. With Brian Johnson on vocals, the album became one of the best-selling records of all time, boasting hits like “You Shook Me All Night Long” and the title track. Angus’s blistering solos and stage antics, like duck-walking across the stage à la Chuck Berry, captivated fans worldwide. Over the years, the band maintained its hard-edged sound, refusing to conform to changing musical trends. Angus remained the face of consistency, always delivering no-nonsense rock and roll.

Despite personal losses, including the death of his brother Malcolm in 2017, Angus continued to carry the torch of AC/DC’s legacy. In 2020, the band released Power Up, a comeback album hailed as a return to form. Widely regarded as one of the greatest guitarists in rock history, Angus Young’s influence spans decades and genres. He embodies the spirit of rock rebellion and persistence. With his Gibson SG slung low and relentless stage energy, Angus Young isn’t just a performer—he’s a force of nature who has forever shaped the sound of rock music.

11/08/2025

Jimi Hendrix, born on November 27, 1942, in Seattle, Washington, revolutionized the electric guitar and the sound of rock music in the 1960s. Raised in a modest household, Hendrix was drawn to music from an early age and taught himself guitar, developing a style that blended blues, soul, and psychedelic rock. He served briefly in the U.S. Army but soon realized his true calling lay in music. After playing in backing bands for artists like Little Richard and the Isley Brothers, Hendrix moved to England in 1966. There, he formed The Jimi Hendrix Experience with bassist Noel Redding and drummer Mitch Mitchell. His innovative use of feedback, distortion, and effects pedals, combined with his virtuosic playing, quickly caught fire in the UK and then the U.S. with hits like “Hey Joe,” “Purple Haze,” and “The Wind Cries Mary.”

Hendrix’s performances were electric and iconic, none more so than his legendary rendition of “The Star-Spangled Banner” at Woodstock in 1969. His three studio albums — Are You Experienced (1967), Axis: Bold as Love (1967), and Electric Ladyland (1968) — became cornerstones of rock music, influencing countless musicians across generations. His guitar work, particularly his ability to manipulate sound, created new possibilities in the genre and earned him praise from contemporaries like Eric Clapton and Pete Townshend. Hendrix’s stage presence, flamboyant style, and improvisational prowess made him a cultural symbol of the counterculture movement and a groundbreaking African American figure in a predominantly white rock world.

Tragically, Hendrix’s life was cut short on September 18, 1970, when he died in London at just 27 years old. Despite his brief career, Hendrix's legacy endures as one of the most innovative and influential guitarists in history. Posthumous releases, documentaries, and tributes have continued to keep his name alive in music history. Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1992, Hendrix’s artistry still resonates with fans and musicians alike. His groundbreaking techniques and passionate artistry redefined what rock music could be, and his influence spans genres from rock and blues to metal, funk, and beyond.

10/08/2025

Joe Elliott, born on August 1, 1959, in Sheffield, England, rose to fame as the charismatic lead vocalist of Def Leppard, one of the most successful rock bands of the 1980s. Inspired by British rock legends like David Bowie, T. Rex, and Mott the Hoople, Elliott helped form Def Leppard in 1977. The band initially gained traction during the New Wave of British Heavy Metal movement, and their albums High 'n' Dry (1981) and Pyromania (1983) brought them international acclaim. With Elliott’s powerful vocals and frontman energy, they captivated fans with hits like “Photograph” and “Rock of Ages.”

The release of Hysteria in 1987 cemented their legacy, selling over 20 million copies worldwide. Despite drummer Rick Allen losing an arm in a car crash, the band — with Elliott’s leadership — pushed forward with unwavering determination. Tracks like “Pour Some Sugar on Me” and “Love Bites” became anthems of the era. Elliott's stage presence and dedication were instrumental in maintaining the band's momentum through changing musical landscapes and personal challenges. Even as grunge and alternative rock took center stage in the 1990s, Elliott helped keep Def Leppard relevant with consistent touring and new releases.

Outside of Def Leppard, Elliott pursued side projects, including his tribute band Down ‘n’ Outz. Over the years, he has earned a reputation as a humble, hardworking rock veteran who values the loyalty of his fans. In 2019, Def Leppard was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, a milestone that Elliott called one of the proudest moments of his life. Still touring and recording, Elliott remains a vocal powerhouse and an enduring figure in rock history, embodying the resilience and spirit of 1980s stadium rock.

09/08/2025

Barry Gibb, born September 1, 1946, on the Isle of Man, is best known as the creative genius and falsetto voice behind the legendary Bee Gees. Alongside his brothers Robin and Maurice, Barry helped pioneer the disco era, but his career began much earlier. In the 1960s, the Bee Gees carved out a niche in pop-rock with hits like “To Love Somebody” and “Massachusetts.” However, their reinvention during the mid-70s for the Saturday Night Fever soundtrack was groundbreaking. Songs like “Stayin’ Alive,” “Night Fever,” and “How Deep Is Your Love” transformed them into disco royalty and sold over 40 million albums globally.

Barry’s contribution to music is not confined to the Bee Gees. He was also a prolific songwriter and producer, penning hits for artists like Barbra Streisand, Dolly Parton, and Diana Ross. His ability to blend genres—from pop and disco to country and R&B—cemented his status as one of the most versatile artists of his time. Even in the face of tragedy, losing both his brothers, Barry continued to create music and honor their legacy. His 2021 album Greenfields, which reimagines Bee Gees classics with country artists, was critically acclaimed and showcased his timeless songwriting talent.

Barry Gibb’s impact on modern music is immeasurable. As the only surviving member of the Bee Gees, he has shouldered the responsibility of preserving their musical heritage. Knighted in 2018, he remains active in music and continues to inspire artists across generations. Whether it’s through infectious disco beats or soul-stirring ballads, Barry’s voice and melodies remain iconic. His journey is a testament to adaptability, resilience, and the power of family, making him one of the greatest musical architects of the 20th century.

08/08/2025

Susanna Hoffs, born January 17, 1959, in Los Angeles, is best known as the founding member and lead vocalist/guitarist of The Bangles. Her love for music began early, influenced by the vibrant LA music scene and her artistic family. In the early 1980s, she joined forces with Vicki and Debbi Peterson and Michael Steele to form The Bangles. The band became one of the most successful all-female rock groups of the era, blending jangly guitars, infectious pop hooks, and strong harmonies. Their breakthrough came with 1986’s Different Light, which featured mega-hits like “Manic Monday,” “Walk Like an Egyptian,” and “If She Knew What She Wants.”

While The Bangles showcased Susanna’s musical talents, her charisma and distinctive voice made her a standout star. Her sultry vocal style and girl-next-door persona resonated with fans, and she quickly became a pop culture icon. Following The Bangles’ initial breakup in 1989, Susanna embarked on a solo career, releasing her debut solo album When You're a Boy in 1991. Though it didn’t match the band’s commercial success, it included the single “My Side of the Bed,” which garnered radio play. She later found creative synergy with Matthew Sweet, collaborating on several well-received cover albums.

Susanna Hoffs remains a vital figure in pop-rock history. Her career has spanned over four decades, and her influence is evident in many modern female-fronted bands. In recent years, she returned to solo work and published a debut novel, proving her talents extend beyond music. With her timeless voice and artistic soul, Susanna continues to evolve while staying true to her roots. She is not just a symbol of 80s pop-rock; she’s a testament to resilience, reinvention, and the enduring power of great songwriting.

07/08/2025

AC/DC was formed in Sydney, Australia, in 1973 by Scottish-born brothers Malcolm and Angus Young. The group emerged during a transformative era in rock music, and their stripped-down, hard-hitting sound quickly set them apart. With Bon Scott’s wild charisma on vocals and Angus’s schoolboy-uniform stage persona, the band built a loyal fanbase through relentless touring and albums like High Voltage (1975) and Let There Be Rock (1977). Their music fused bluesy roots with raw rock energy, laying the foundation for what would become their signature sound.

The band’s trajectory hit its peak with 1979’s Highway to Hell, but tragedy struck when Bon Scott died in early 1980. Rather than disband, the group recruited Brian Johnson and recorded Back in Black, a tribute to Scott and one of the best-selling albums of all time. Tracks like “You Shook Me All Night Long” and “Hells Bells” became instant classics. The band became known for thunderous riffs, stadium-sized energy, and Johnson’s gritty vocals. Throughout the 1980s and beyond, AC/DC released solid hits and maintained a strong global presence with albums like For Those About to Rock and The Razors Edge.

Despite internal issues, including Malcolm Young's dementia diagnosis and eventual passing, and legal troubles involving drummer Phil Rudd, AC/DC continued recording and touring. Angus Young carried the torch, and the band made a triumphant return in 2020 with Power Up, featuring Malcolm’s ideas and spirit. Their unwavering commitment to their brand of no-frills rock ’n’ roll earned them induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2003. AC/DC remains a blueprint for hard rock, their legacy sealed in amps and adrenaline.

06/08/2025

Born on March 31, 1955, in Glasgow, Scotland, Angus Young moved with his family to Sydney, Australia, at age eight. Growing up in a musical family, Angus was influenced by his older siblings, including George Young of the Easybeats. In 1973, Angus co-founded AC/DC with his brother Malcolm, a band that would revolutionize hard rock with its raw power and relentless energy. Known for his electrifying performances and trademark schoolboy outfit, Angus quickly became the face of AC/DC. The band’s early albums like High Voltage and Let There Be Rock established a gritty, blues-infused sound that stood out in an era dominated by glam and progressive rock.

AC/DC's breakthrough came with Highway to Hell (1979), but tragedy struck when lead singer Bon Scott died in 1980. Undeterred, the band regrouped with Brian Johnson and released Back in Black, one of the best-selling albums of all time. Angus's guitar riffs on tracks like “You Shook Me All Night Long” and “Hells Bells” became anthems of rock, earning AC/DC a place in music history. Young’s energetic stage presence, duck-walking and headbanging across arenas, made every concert unforgettable. His Gibson SG guitar and piercing solos defined the band’s sonic signature.

Despite lineup changes and the loss of his brother Malcolm in 2017, Angus has kept the AC/DC spirit alive. Albums like Black Ice (2008) and Power Up (2020) demonstrated that the band’s raw sound still resonates. Angus Young’s commitment to authenticity, his legendary work ethic, and his loyalty to the fans have made him a rock icon. With over 200 million records sold and countless sold-out tours, Angus Young remains a symbol of uncompromising rock ‘n’ roll.

05/08/2025

Formed in London in 1970, Queen became one of the most eclectic and groundbreaking bands in rock history. With the operatic vocal prowess of Freddie Mercury, the guitar wizardry of Brian May, bassist John Deacon, and drummer Roger Taylor, they blended genres from progressive rock to funk, disco, and opera. Their 1975 hit “Bohemian Rhapsody” shattered conventions with its six-minute run time and complex structure, becoming a cultural phenomenon. Early albums like Queen II and Sheer Heart Attack showcased their virtuosity and ambition.

Queen achieved superstardom with a string of iconic albums: A Night at the Opera (1975), News of the World (1977), and The Game (1980). Songs like “We Will Rock You,” “We Are the Champions,” and “Another One Bites the Dust” became stadium staples. The band’s defining moment came with their 1985 Live Aid performance, widely hailed as one of the greatest in rock history. Mercury’s theatrical charisma and vocal range made him one of the most beloved frontmen in music history, while the band’s blend of complexity and catchiness won over fans worldwide.

Mercury’s battle with AIDS remained private until just before his death in 1991, which left a deep mark on the music world. Queen’s surviving members have continued performing, first with Paul Rodgers and later with Adam Lambert, introducing their music to new generations. The 2018 film Bohemian Rhapsody reignited global interest in the band, earning multiple Academy Awards. Today, Queen’s music transcends decades, blending showmanship and substance in a catalog that remains timeless and inspirational.

04/08/2025

Gary Rossington, born December 4, 1951, in Jacksonville, Florida, was the last surviving original member of the legendary Southern rock band Lynyrd Skynyrd. A talented guitarist with a raw, bluesy tone, Rossington helped shape the sound that would define Southern rock for generations. Inspired by the Rolling Stones and blues guitarists like Eric Clapton and Jeff Beck, he co-founded Lynyrd Skynyrd in the 1960s alongside Ronnie Van Zant and Allen Collins. Their chemistry and musical synergy resulted in iconic tracks such as “Free Bird,” “Sweet Home Alabama,” and “Simple Man.” Rossington’s distinctive slide guitar work became a hallmark of the band’s identity.

In 1977, tragedy struck when the band’s chartered plane crashed in Mississippi, killing Van Zant and several others. Rossington survived but suffered serious injuries. After years of recovery, he returned to music with the Rossington-Collins Band and later reformed a version of Lynyrd Skynyrd in the late 1980s. While critics debated whether the reformed band could match the original’s spirit, fans continued to flock to their concerts, and Rossington became the band’s steady anchor. Over the years, he remained committed to preserving the Skynyrd legacy, touring tirelessly and mentoring younger musicians.

Rossington passed away on March 5, 2023, marking the end of an era. His loss was felt deeply in the rock community and especially among fans of Southern rock. Through decades of music and resilience, Rossington upheld the spirit of Lynyrd Skynyrd, not just as a guitarist but as a guardian of its legacy. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame with Skynyrd in 2006. His soul-stirring solos and Southern charm will be remembered as vital threads in the fabric of American rock music.

03/08/2025

Bette Midler, born on December 1, 1945, in Honolulu, Hawaii, is a powerhouse of American entertainment — an actress, singer, comedian, and producer whose versatility and charisma have dazzled audiences for over five decades. She began her career performing in New York City’s bathhouses with Barry Manilow as her accompanist, earning the nickname “The Divine Miss M.” Her unique blend of cabaret, comedy, and pop music earned her a Grammy in 1973 for Best New Artist. Her albums such as The Divine Miss M and Bette Midler featured classic hits like “Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy” and “Do You Want to Dance.”

Midler transitioned to film in the late 1970s and earned critical acclaim for her dramatic performance in The Rose (1979), based loosely on the life of Janis Joplin. She earned an Academy Award nomination and proved she could be both a comedic and serious actress. Through the 1980s and 1990s, she starred in popular films including Beaches, Down and Out in Beverly Hills, and Hocus Pocus. Her rendition of “Wind Beneath My Wings” became a worldwide hit and a cultural touchstone. Midler has also made waves on stage, starring in Broadway productions like Hello, Dolly!, which won her a Tony Award in 2017.

Beyond her artistic accomplishments, Midler is known for her philanthropy and activism. She founded the New York Restoration Project, aiming to revitalize parks and green spaces. Outspoken and fearless, she has remained relevant in every decade through reinvention and authenticity. A recipient of multiple Grammys, Emmys, a Tony, and numerous film awards, Bette Midler is the epitome of a multifaceted star who has left a permanent imprint on music, film, and theater. Her legacy is one of bold talent, humor, compassion, and unapologetic individuality.

02/08/2025

Jon Bon Jovi, born John Francis Bongiovi Jr. on March 2, 1962, in Perth Amboy, New Jersey, is the iconic frontman of the rock band Bon Jovi. With a powerful voice and charismatic stage presence, he emerged in the 1980s as a leader of arena rock. His band's breakthrough came with their 1986 album Slippery When Wet, featuring massive hits like “Livin’ on a Prayer,” “You Give Love a Bad Name,” and “Wanted Dead or Alive.” These anthems not only topped the charts but defined a generation. Bon Jovi became synonymous with big hair, leather jackets, and guitar solos, crafting music that mixed glam metal and heartland rock, resonating across the globe.

As the band matured, so did Jon's songwriting. Albums like Keep the Faith (1992) and Crush (2000) revealed a more introspective and diverse side, with songs like “It’s My Life” introducing the group to a younger audience. In addition to music, Jon Bon Jovi branched into acting, appearing in films like Moonlight and Valentino and TV shows like Ally McBeal. His philanthropic efforts are equally commendable, founding the JBJ Soul Foundation and Soul Kitchen, aiming to fight hunger and homelessness. Jon's ability to balance celebrity with service has made him a revered figure beyond rock music.

Today, Jon Bon Jovi remains a respected artist and humanitarian. He has sold over 130 million records worldwide and earned a place in the Songwriters Hall of Fame. He continues to tour, write, and inspire both through his music and outreach work. His legacy isn't just in electrifying performances, but also in his commitment to using fame for good. A true icon, Jon Bon Jovi has proven that rock stars can age gracefully while remaining relevant and impactful.

01/08/2025

Barry Gibb, born on September 1, 1946, in Douglas, Isle of Man, rose to international prominence as the co-founder and lead vocalist of the Bee Gees. Along with his brothers Robin and Maurice, Barry began performing in Australia in the early 1960s before returning to the UK and capturing the world’s attention with their melodic harmonies and songwriting brilliance. The Bee Gees’ initial success came from soulful ballads like “Massachusetts” and “To Love Somebody,” showcasing Barry’s distinctive falsetto and emotional delivery. Barry’s songwriting talent proved unparalleled—he co-wrote dozens of hits for other artists, including Barbra Streisand, Dolly Parton, and Kenny Rogers.

The Bee Gees’ global dominance exploded in the disco era of the late 1970s, especially with their work on the Saturday Night Fever soundtrack, which became one of the best-selling soundtracks in history. Barry’s falsetto became the defining sound of disco, and songs like “Stayin’ Alive,” “Night Fever,” and “How Deep Is Your Love” turned the trio into cultural icons. The group’s success wasn’t without challenges, as disco eventually fell out of favor, leading to a backlash in the early 1980s. However, Barry and his brothers continued to write and perform, reinventing themselves through the decades and earning immense respect as elder statesmen of pop.

Barry Gibb endured personal losses, most notably the deaths of all three of his brothers. Maurice died in 2003, followed by Robin in 2012 and youngest brother Andy in 1988. Despite these tragedies, Barry has remained active, releasing solo work and preserving the legacy of the Bee Gees. Knighted in 2018 for his services to music and charity, Barry Gibb’s influence spans generations. With over 1,000 songs written and more than 220 million records sold, he stands as one of the most successful songwriters and performers in music history.

Facts Finder