October 20 in Music History: Little Big Town’s “Better Man,” Snoop Dogg’s Birthday, and Iconic Releases
October 20 is packed with unforgettable music milestones—from Taylor Swift’s songwriting reveal to Snoop Dogg’s birthday and legendary album releases. Let’s take a look back at the hits, surprises, and unforgettable moments that make this date one to remember.
A Songwriting Surprise: Taylor Swift and Little Big Town
On October 20, 2016, Little Big Town released “Better Man,” the lead single from their eighth album, The Breaker.
It was later revealed that Taylor Swift wrote the song. Originally, she had planned to include it on her own album Red, but decided it would be a perfect fit for Little Big Town instead.
In 2021, Swift re-recorded her own version for Red (Taylor’s Version)—giving fans a new way to hear the heartfelt ballad she first penned years earlier.
Chart-Topping Hits
Several iconic tracks hit major milestones on this date:
1962: Bobby Pickett & the Crypt-Kickers’ “Monster Mash” topped the Billboard Hot 100. To this day, it remains the ultimate Halloween anthem.
1973: The Rolling Stones’ “Angie” reached No. 1 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100, marking their seventh American chart-topper.
Major Album Releases
October 20 has been a favorite release day for some of music’s biggest names:
1969: John Lennon and Yoko Ono released The Wedding Album, their final avant-garde project.
1979: Bob Dylan appeared on Saturday Night Live, performing three songs from Slow Train Coming—his only time on the show.
1992: Madonna’s Erotica debuted at No. 2 on the Billboard 200, stirring headlines for its bold, provocative themes.
2003: Amy Winehouse released her debut album Frank, which gained greater recognition after her passing in 2011.
2023: Cher released her first-ever Christmas album, featuring both classics and new songs like “DJ Play A Christmas Song” and “Angels in the Snow.”
A Birthday and a Tragedy
1971: Snoop Dogg was born in Long Beach, California. With 16 GRAMMY nominations and three No. 1 hits, he remains one of the most influential figures in hip-hop.
- 1977: Tragedy struck when Lynyrd Skynyrd’s plane crashed, killing three band members and others—just days after the release of their fourth album.
Final Note
From “Monster Mash” to “Better Man,” October 20 is a day filled with both celebration and reflection. Whether you’re honoring Snoop Dogg’s birthday or spinning Cher’s festive new tunes, this date proves that music history is always evolving.
So—what’s on your playlist today? “Monster Mash” or “DJ Play A Christmas Song”?
