Today in 1968, Iron Butterfly’s “In-a-Gadda-da-Vita” reached the  charts. It is said to be the first heavy metal song to chart. It charted at number 117.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5LHNmG0X4t4

At the other end of the charts was South African trumpeter Hugh Masekela:

Quite a selection of birthdays today, starting with T.G. Sheppard:

John Lodge, bassist for the Moody Blues:

Kim Carnes:

The incomparable Carlos Santana:

Jay Jay French of Twisted Sister:

Michael Anthony of Van Halen:

Stone Gossard of Pearl Jam: