Birthday Highlight:

Robin Zander, lead singer of Cheap Trick, is 60 today. Zander was performing in a cover band in Wisconsin Dells when drummer Bun E. Carlos invited him to replace Cheap Trick's departing original singer. Cheap Trick's brand of guitar-driven power pop reached it's peak of popularity in the late '70 and early '80s, although the band continues to tour today. Their popularity in Japan was so great during this time that they were referred to as "the American Beatles" in that country.

Also, Today In:

1977 - Patti Smith broke her vertebra when she fell off the stage at a gig in Tampa, Florida.

1986 - Ray Charles was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame at the first induction dinner, held in New York City.

1988 - Nirvana recorded a 10-song demo with Seattle producer Jack Endino. Sub Pop records boss Jonathan Poneman heard the tape and offered to put out a Nirvana single.

1990 - Allen Collins, guitarist from Lynyrd Skynyrd died of pneumonia after being ill for several months.

1990 - David Bowie announced his forthcoming and final world tour, Sound And Vision 1990, during which he will invite each local audience to decide on a 'greatest hits' running order, organised through local radio stations.

Birthdays:

Nick Harmer, bassist for Death Cab for Cutie is 38 today.