March 12 holds a special place in Top 40 music history. From chart-topping albums and historic performances to influential cultural moments, this day has seen many major milestones. Artists like Adele, Billy Joel, and ABBA all made significant contributions tied to this date, while unforgettable performances from Britney Spears, Madonna, and Amy Winehouse left lasting impressions on fans.
Here’s a look at some of the most notable March 12 moments in pop music history.
Breakthrough Hits and Milestones
Several legendary albums and tours are connected to March 12.
In 1980, Billy Joel released his seventh studio album, Glass Houses. The record dominated the Billboard 200 chart for six weeks and remained on the chart for more than 70 weeks. It also produced multiple hit singles, including the No. 1 smash It’s Still Rock and Roll to Me.
In 1982, British band The Jam released their sixth and final studio album, The Gift. The album topped the U.K. charts and produced two No. 1 singles: Precious and Town Called Malice.
March 12, 2011, saw Adele dominating the charts as her album 21 topped the Billboard 200. The record became one of the most successful albums of the 21st century.
That same year, Adele’s emotional ballad Someone Like You reached No. 1 in the United Kingdom.
In 2019, pop star Shawn Mendes performed at the Mercedes-Benz Arena during his global tour, which began in Amsterdam and concluded in Mexico City.
Photo by Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images
Cultural Milestones in Music
March 12 has also produced meaningful cultural moments in the music world.
In 1940, Grammy-winning singer Al Jarreau was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Known for his smooth vocal style and jazz-influenced pop hits, Jarreau later scored Top 30 songs such as We’re in This Love Together and Mornin’ while earning multiple Grammy Awards.
In 1969, Paul McCartney married Linda McCartney at the Marylebone Register Office. Their marriage lasted nearly three decades until Linda’s death in 1998.
In 1975, Swedish pop group ABBA began working on the iconic song Mamma Mia. The track later inspired the hit musical and film Mamma Mia! starring Meryl Streep and Pierce Brosnan.
In 2016, pop superstar Ariana Grande hosted Saturday Night Live. During this appearance she met comedian Pete Davidson. Their brief engagement later inspired lyrics in Grande’s hit song thank u, next
In 2021, singer Sam Smith spoke publicly about gendered categories at the BRIT Awards, expressing hope for more inclusive recognition in music awards.
In 2023, pop-rock band OneRepublic performed at the Aware Super Theatre. Their hit I Ain’t Worried gained major popularity after appearing in the film Top Gun: Maverick starring Tom Cruise.
Notable Recordings and Performances
March 12 has also featured several unforgettable live performances.
In 1969, The Beatles performed their classic hit Hey Jude at the 11th Annual Grammy Awards held at the Century Plaza Hotel. Other performers included Simon & Garfunkel, The Temptations, and Glen Campbell.
In 2000, Britney Spears delivered an electrifying concert at the Pyramid Arena during her Crazy 2K Tour. The show promoted her albums …Baby One More Time and Oops!… I Did It Again.
In 2007, Amy Winehouse appeared on the Late Show with David Letterman and performed her hit song Rehab from the acclaimed album Back to Black.
In 2016, Madonna performed songs including Material Girl during her Rebel Heart Tour at the Rod Laver Arena.
In 2022, country star Morgan Wallen performed at the Alerus Center during his Dangerous Tour.
In 2024, artist Powfu played a sold-out show at the Subterranean with performers Cody Lawless and Jomie.
Industry Changes and Challenges
The music industry has also experienced significant changes on March 12.
In 2013, Clive Burr, former drummer of Iron Maiden, passed away at age 56 due to complications from Multiple Sclerosis. Burr played on albums including Iron Maiden, Killers, and The Number of the Beast.
That same year, legendary songwriter Bob Dylan became the first rock musician elected to the American Academy of Arts and Letters, recognizing his profound influence on American culture.
In 2021, the music industry continued adjusting to the global impact of COVID-19, which had forced widespread venue closures and concert cancellations beginning in 2020.
Despite these challenges, concerts and festivals have since returned, proving once again that music has the power to bring people together.