February 10 has witnessed some major milestones, unforgettable performances, and historic GRAMMY wins. On this day in music history, big band leader Glenn Miller earned the first-ever solid-gold hit, Carole King released one of the greatest pop albums of all time, and Michael Jackson addressed rumors about his appearance during a headline-making interview with Oprah Winfrey.
From breakthrough hits to cultural milestones, February 10 continues to leave its mark on the music industry.
Breakthrough Hits and Milestones
Here are some songs and albums released on February 10 that changed music history and are still admired today:
1942: Glenn Miller and His Orchestra received the first solid-gold hit for “Chattanooga Choo Choo,” which sold over 1.2 million copies.
1958: Frank Sinatra’s album Come Fly With Me reached No. 1 on the charts. Its timeless tracks remain staples among crooners.
1971: Carole King released Tapestry, featuring classics like “I Feel the Earth Move” and “You’ve Got a Friend.”
1976: Diana Ross released her second self-titled album, peaking at No. 5 on the Billboard 200. It produced two Hot 100 No. 1 singles: “Love Hangover” and “Theme from Mahogany.”
1987: Public Enemy dropped their debut album Yo! Bum Rush the Show via Def Jam Recordings, landing in the Top 30 on Billboard’s Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart.
Cultural Milestones
Several February 10 releases and events have had a lasting influence on music and pop culture:
1978: Van Halen released their explosive self-titled debut album, redefining arena and hard rock with tracks like “Runnin’ With the Devil” and “Ain’t Talkin’ ’Bout Love.”
2013: Gotye won Record of the Year at the GRAMMY Awards for “Somebody That I Used to Know.” Other winners included Adele, Carrie Underwood, Mumford & Sons, and Skrillex.
2017: Adam Levine received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, honoring his work as the frontman of Maroon 5.
Photo by Rich Fury/Getty Images
2017: Tom Petty was named MusiCares Person of the Year for his artistic achievements and charitable efforts.
2019: The 61st GRAMMY Awards took place in Los Angeles, with winners including Kacey Musgraves, Cardi B, Bad Bunny, and Ariana Grande.
Notable Recordings and Performances
February 10 has also delivered some memorable live performances and album releases:
1984: Kiss brought their Lick It Up World Tour to Milwaukee Auditorium.
2004: Kanye West released his debut album The College Dropout, featuring “Through the Wire” and “Jesus Walks.”
- 2008: Amy Winehouse won three GRAMMY Awards for her hit single “Rehab.”
2009: John Mayer won Best Male Pop Vocal Performance for “Say.”
2010: Taylor Swift performed in Melbourne as part of her Fearless Tour.
Industry Changes and Challenges
Not all February 10 moments were celebratory. The day has also highlighted serious industry challenges:
1981: Natalie Cole escaped unharmed from a deadly fire at the Las Vegas Hilton Hotel.
1993: Michael Jackson addressed speculation about his appearance during an Oprah Winfrey interview, citing a skin disorder.
1998: Guns N’ Roses frontman Axl Rose was arrested for disorderly conduct at Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport.
2006: Influential producer J Dilla passed away at age 32, just days after his birthday.
2014: A woman was charged with cyberstalking Soundgarden singer Chris Cornell.
2017: Universal Records signed an exclusive licensing deal with Prince’s estate, securing rights to his catalog.
Final Note
February 10 has seen countless pivotal moments — both triumphant and tragic — that continue to shape the music industry today.