March 9 has delivered several memorable moments in music history—from major career turning points to tragic losses and notable album releases. Below are some of the most significant events that took place on this date.
James Brown Reshapes His Band
On March 9, 1970, James Brown made a dramatic change to his lineup. After members of his band complained about low wages, the legendary funk pioneer fired most of them and replaced the group with the The Pacemakers.
The new lineup featured brothers Bootsy Collins and Catfish Collins, whose energetic style helped usher in a fresh sound for Brown.
The decision proved beneficial. With their backing, Brown released several hits, including the iconic single “Get Up (I Feel Like Being a) Sex Machine.” The track became one of his signature songs and cracked the Top 20 on the U.S. charts, cementing its place in funk history.
Breakthrough Hits and Milestones
Several important albums were also released on March 9 over the years.
1992: Ride – Going Blank Again
British shoegaze band Ride released their sophomore album Going Blank Again.
The record was a commercial success and produced several U.K. Top 40 hits, including the standout single “Leave Them All Behind,” which climbed to No. 10 on the U.K. charts.
2018: Lil Yachty – Lil Boat 2
Atlanta rapper Lil Yachty released Lil Boat 2, featuring appearances from Offset, Quavo, and 2 Chainz.
The album debuted at No. 2 on the Billboard 200 and produced charting tracks such as “NBAYOUNGBOAT” and “66,” both of which reached the Top 40 on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart.
Cultural Milestones
March 9 has also marked several notable birthdays and personal milestones in the music world.
1987: Bow Wow Is Born
Rapper and actor Bow Wow was born in Columbus, Ohio.
He began writing and performing music at just 10 years old and eventually built a successful career. Bow Wow has placed four Top 10 albums on the Billboard 200, including Wanted and Bow Wow: Unleashed.
1993: SUGA of BTS Is Born
SUGA—also known as Agust D and born Min Yoon-gi—was born in South Korea.
He rose to global fame as a member of BTS. The group became the first K-pop act to reach No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 with Dynamite. They later added more chart-toppers, including Life Goes On and Butter.
Photo by Steve Ferdman/Getty Images
2012: Jerry Lee Lewis Marries for the Seventh Time
Rock and roll pioneer Jerry Lee Lewis married his caregiver, Judith Brown, in Natchez, Mississippi.
The private ceremony marked the seventh marriage for the “To Make Love Sweeter For You” singer. Reports later revealed that the wedding plans were kept secret—even from his daughter Phoebe, who lived with him at the time.
Industry Changes and Challenges
March 9 has also seen the music industry lose influential artists.
1997: The Notorious B.I.G. Is Murdered
Rapper The Notorious B.I.G.—also known as Biggie Smalls—was shot and killed in Los Angeles, California.
The tragedy occurred about six months after the murder of his rival Tupac Shakur. Biggie’s death shocked the hip-hop community, and the murder remains unsolved. Many fans believe it may have been connected to the escalating East Coast–West Coast rap feud.
2005: Chris LeDoux Dies
Country singer and rodeo champion Chris LeDoux passed away at age 56 due to complications from cancer.
During his career, LeDoux released more than 20 albums and collaborated with artists such as Jon Bon Jovi and Garth Brooks. His duet with Brooks, Whatcha Gonna Do With a Cowboy, reached No. 7 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart.
Lasting Impact
The events of March 9 have shaped music history in many ways. From James Brown’s bold decision to revamp his band to the tragic loss of Biggie Smalls, these moments left a lasting mark on the industry.
Biggie’s death—coming less than a year after Tupac Shakur’s—sent shockwaves throughout hip-hop. In response, many artists began increasing security during performances and public appearances, highlighting the real-world consequences of rap’s most infamous rivalry.