History Highlight:

On this date in 1971, Janis Joplin - the pride of Beaumont/Port Arthur, Texas - had her most successful single released. "Me And Bobby McGee," which was written by Kris Kristofferson, was released posthumously, as Joplin had died the previous October of an overdose of heroin combined with alcohol.

Also, Today In:

1956 - Elvis began laying down tracks at RCA Victor's New York studios for what would be his first album. One of the memorable tunes waxed on this day was Presley's version of Carl Perkins' "Blue Suede Shoes."

1969 - The Beatles' last public performance took place, on the roof of Apple Records in London. The impromptu concert was broken up by the police.

1982 - Influential blues guitarist Sam "Lightnin'" Hopkins died of cancer in Houston.

1990 - The Stone Roses, not happy with plans to re-release their single "Sally Cinnamon," trashed the offices of Revolver FM, their London-based record company, and then hurled paint on cars parked outside. They were later arrested and charged.

Birthdays:

Phil Collins is 62 today.

Jefferson Airplane co-founder Marty Balin is 71 today.

Noted "Queen of R&B" Ruth Brown was born this day in 1928.