Today in Music: a look back at pop music

(Dec. 21)

Today's birthdays include the late Frank Zappa, who was born in 1940; Ray Hildebrand, "Paul" of the duo Paul and Paula, also in 1940 (age 62); Albert Lee in 1943 (age 59); Beach Boy guitarist Carl Wilson in 1946; and Betty Wright in 1953 (age 49).

Today's musical milestones:

In 1964, Charlie Watts' book about jazz great Charlie "Bird" Parker, titled "Ode To A High Flying Bird," was published.

In 1967, the Rolling Stones album "Their Satanic Majesties Request" was released.

In 1968, Crosby Stills and Nash performed together for the first time at a concert in California.

Also in 1968, Bob Seger's "Ramblin' Gamblin' Man" was released.

In 1969, following the break-up of Blind Faith, drummer Ginger Baker launched his own group, Airforce.

In 1970, Elvis Presley met with President Richard Nixon privately at the White House. "The King" said he wanted to help restore patriotism in the United States, and also made a pitch to be named a drug enforcement agent.

In 1974, what would become the Doobie Brothers' first No.1 single, "Black Water," was released.

In 1979, Willie Nelson's first movie, "Electric Horseman," opened nationwide.

In 1985, Lionel Richie's "Say You, Say Me" topped the U.S. singles chart.

In 1986, a second generation of Osmonds, the six sons of Alan Osmond, made their network TV debut on a Bob Hope Christmas special.

In 1992, nine people were injured during a concert in Edinburgh, Scotland, by the British rock group Madness.

In 1993, Beastie Boy Adam Horovitz was charged with grand theft and battery in connection with his allegedly attack the previous month on a TV cameraman outside a memorial service for actor River Phoenix.

In 1994, Beach Boys Brian Wilson and cousin Mike Love settled Love's lawsuit seeking songwriting credits on 35 songs with $5 million and a handshake.

Also in 1994, Snoop Dogg and three members of his band were arrested in a Lake Charles, La., hotel on possession of marijuana charges.

And in 1994, Motley Crue's Tommy Lee was arrested for allegedly beating up his girlfriend.

In 1995, a Houston judge heard arguments on the request for a new trial from the woman convicted of killing Tejano singer Selena.

In 1998, a judge certified that George Michael had completed the community service that was part of his no-contest plea to lewd conduct charges. Michael had been arrested earlier in the year in a Beverly Hills, Calif., park bathroom after an undercover cop allegedly witnessed him performing a "lewd act."

Topping the charts on this date: April Love - Pat Boone (1957), Turn! Turn! Turn! - The Byrds (1965), The Most Beautiful Girl - Charlie Rich (1973), Physical - Olivia Newton-John (1981).

Today's musical quiz:

Prior to getting together, Crosby Stills and Nash were in what bands? Answer: Graham Nash had been with the Hollies, David Crosby with the Byrds and Stephen Stills with Buffalo Springfield. Neil Young, also from Buffalo Springfield, would join CSN in 1969.