Today in Music: A look back at pop music

(June 18)

Today's musical birthdays include Don "Sugarcane" Harris, who was born in 1938 (age 64); Paul McCartney in 1942 (age 60); KC and the Sunshine Band guitarist Jerome Smith in 1953 (age 49); Tom Bailey of the Thompson Twins in 1957 (age 45); and Alison Moyet in 1961 (age 41).

On this day in musical history:

In 1968, "In His Own Write" -- a play adapted by Adrienne Kennedy from John Lennon's two books -- opened at the National Theater in London.

In 1976, Phil May -- the only remaining original member of the Pretty Things -- left the band. When the band first formed in 1965, it was promoted as a "dirtier" version of the Rolling Stones.

In 1977, the Sex Pistols' Johnny Rotten was attacked in London by razor-wielding protesters offended by the band's song "God Save the Queen."

In 1984, Dolly Parton's third major movie "Rhinestone" opened.

Also in 1984, country's Moe Bandy and Joe Stampley released their Culture Club satire, titled "Where's the Dress?"

And in 1984, fans at a Judas Priest concert at New York's Madison Square Garden went wild, tearing up hundreds of seats.

In 1987, Willie Nelson announced that arrangements were almost complete for Farm Aid III, to be held in Lincoln, Neb.

In 1992, concertgoers rampaged through downtown Boston after officials cancelled a free rap concert. About 24 people were injured, and 24 arrested.

In 1996, Sting -- in Warsaw for a concert -- met with Polish President Aleksander Kwasniewski.

In 1997, Lollapalooza '97 kicked off in West Palm Beach, Fla.

Also in 1997, Jon Bon Jovi made his New York solo club debut in support of his new CD "Destination Anywhere."

In 1998, Yes resumed its "Open Your Eyes World Tour," celebrating 30 years of the Yes experience, in Toronto.

Today's musical quiz:

In 1991, Paul McCartney topped the classical charts. What was the name of the record? Answer: "Liverpool Oratorio."