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Today In Music: A look back at pop music

By PENNY NELSON BARTHOLOMEW, United Press International
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(Jan. 31)

Today's birthdays include the late Terry Kath of Chicago, who was born in 1946; Led Zeppelin bassist John Paul Jones, also in 1946 (age 56); "K.C.," a.k.a. Harry Wayne Casey, leader of K.C. and the Sunshine Band, in 1951 (age 51); guitarist Phil Manzanera, formerly with Roxy Music, also in 1951 (age 51); John "Johnny Rotten" Lydon of the Sex Pistols in 1956 (age 46); Whitesnake guitarist Adrian Vandenberg in 1958 (age 44); Lloyd Cole of Lloyd Cole and the Commotions in 1961 (age 41); and Justin Timberlake in 1981.

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Today's musical milestones:

In 1958, Little Richard quit music at the height of his fame to attend evangelism college, where he stayed for four years.

In 1967, the New York Supreme Court dismissed a lawsuit brought by officials of Yorktown Heights High School, who were attempting to cancel a concert by folk singer Pete Seeger. They feared he might incite students to riot. The show was held five days later -- peacefully and with no incidents.

In 1970, Bob Weir and Phil Lesh of the Grateful Dead were arrested in New Orleans. The incident was immortalized in their song "Truckin'" with the claim they were "set up like a bowlin' pin."

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In 1972, Aretha Franklin sang at Mahalia Jackson's funeral.

In 1978, Blood Sweat and Tears saxophonist Greg Herbert died from an accidental drug overdose. He was 31.

In 1979, the Clash launched the band's first U.S. tour. Bo Diddley was the opening act.

In 1982, the Doobie Brothers split up, but promised they'd get together again for a farewell tour.

In 1985, Barbara Cowsill -- mother of the Cowsills -- died at age 56.

In 1988, the Beastie Boys denied reports that they'd broken up.

In 1989, Playboy magazine -- featuring a photo spread of La Toya Jackson, nude with snakes -- hit newsstands.

In 1993, Garth Brooks sang the national anthem at the Super Bowl XXVIII.

In 2000, the Smashing Pumpkins kicked off a national in-store tour in Lawrence, Kan., in support of the band's upcoming CD "MACHINA/the Machines of God." The road trip included autograph signings and some in-store performances.


Today's musical quiz:

Where did Justin Timberlake meet his fiancé, Britney Spears? Answer: The two met on the set of the "New Mickey Mouse Club Show." Both were 11 years old.

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