ON THIS DAY in 1911,

longtime playbyplay announcer for the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, ‘Cactus’ Jack Wells was born in Moose Jaw.

His radio career began in 1936 when while listening to a hockey broadcast on CFQC, he boasted he could do a better job. Dared by a chum to prove his claim, Jack applied for a job at the station, and was hired.  In 1939 he did hockey playbyplay at CJAT Trail, before becoming a permanent Winnipeg fixture in 1941. After being inducted into the CAB Hall of Fame in 1988, he died following surgery May 26 1999 at age 88.

Also in 1911, actor Robert Middleton was born Samuel Messer in Cincinnati.

The hefty, beetle-browed character actor was known for most of the first 25 years of the TV era as a mop-faced villain capable of the most vicious and contemptible of crimes.  He appeared also on Jackie Gleason’s The Honeymooners as ‘Ralph Kramden’s’ boss.  The other series in which he guest starred the most include Burke’s Law, Rawhide, Tales of Wells Fargo, The Untouchables, Alfred Hitchcock Presents & Gunsmoke.  He died of congestive heart failure June 14, 1977 at age 66.

Also in 1911, singer Maxine Sullivan was born Marietta Williams in Homestead Pa. This unique jazz vocalist with a light and intimate style sadly recorded far too few jazz songs in her career. In 1940 Sullivan and her husband John Kirby were featured on the radio program Flow Gently Sweet Rhythm. They were the first black jazz stars to have their own weekly radio series. In the mid ’40s she was recorded with the bands of Teddy Wilson, Benny Carter, and Jimmie Lunceford. Her best known song was the Scottish ‘Loch Lomond.’  She died Apr 7, 1987 weeks short of her 76th birthday.

In 1912, jazz arranger and composer Gil Evans was born in Toronto. Evans became known for his innovative writing for the Claude Thornhill orchestra in the 1940’s. Evans later collaborated with jazz trumpeter Miles Davis on such classic L-Ps as “Miles Ahead,” “Porgy and Bess” and “Sketches of Spain.” He died in Mexico on March 20th, 1988 at age 75.

In 1938, Louis Armstrong and his orchestra recorded the New Orleans jazz standard, When the Saints Go Marching In, on Decca Records.

In 1941, ’50s rock ‘n’ roll singer Ritchie Valens was born in Pacoima, California. He was signed by Del-Fi Records in 1958, and had three big hits that year with “Come On, Let’s Go,” “Donna” and “La Bamba.” Valens died in a 1959 plane crash with Buddy Holly and the Big Bopper. There was a resurgence of interest in Valens’ music in 1987 with the release of the movie biography ”La Bamba.”

In 1943, German occupiers of the Netherlands confiscated all radios.

In 1943, singer Mary Wells was born in Detroit.  She was one of the signature voices of the ‘Motown sound,’ most famous for the 1964 hit ‘My Guy.’ She died of larynx cancer July 26, 1992 at age 49.

In 1955, for the first time a riot broke out at an Elvis Presley concert. At the Gatorbowl baseball park in Jacksonville, Florida, Elvis told the crowd of some 14 thousand, “Girls, I’ll see you backstage.”  The frenzied females proceeded to do that, ripping his clothes, wreaking havoc, and in the process convincing manager Tom Parker of Elvis’ popularity.

In 1956, after 16 years as a Sunday feature on CBS Radio, “Gene Autry’s Melody Ranch,” aired its final episode. The half-hour  broadcast for Wrigley’s Gum featured 10 to 15 minute western action skits featuring Autry and his sidekick Pat Buttram, plus musical selections by “the ‘Singing Cowboy.” Autry went on to be owner of a chain of West Coast radio stations, Golden West Broadcasters, and LA TV station KTLA.

In 1958, Jerry Lee Lewis was granted a divorce from his second wife Jane, some six months after he had married his third wife, his 13-year old cousin Myra.

In 1959, the Kraft Music Hall, already a broadcast record holder after 26 years on NBC radio & TV, aired its last TV show with Milton Berle (below) as host. Perry Como took over in the fall.

In 1960, fiddler Gid Tanner, leader of the pioneer country music band, the Skillet Lickers, died in Winder, Georgia at age 74. The Skillet Lickers were an extremely popular and influential string band of the 1920’s and ’30s.

In 1963, the Pat Burns Hotline debuted on AM 600 CJOR in Vancouver … and Canadian talk radio would never be the same.

In 1966, the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band played their first professional gig at the Paradox Club in Orange, California.

Also in 1966, the Kinks recorded “Sunny Afternoon.”

In 1967, actor Frank McGrath, who played the cook on the long running TV western Wagon Train, died after a heart attack at age 64.

Also in 1967, The Supremes scored their 10th US No.1 single with ‘The Happening.’ It was the last single to be released as The Supremes, from now on they were to be known as Diana Ross and the Supremes.

Still in 1967, “Somethin’ Stupid” by Nancy & Frank Sinatra topped the charts and stayed there for 4 weeks.

Again in 1967, Merle Haggard made his first appearance at the Grand Ole Opry.

In 1971, Aretha Franklin, the “Queen of Soul”, received a Gold Record for her version of Bridge over Troubled Water, originally a hit for Paul Simon & Art Garfunkel.

Also in 1971, on his twenty-first birthday Stevie Wonder was supposed to receive all the money he had earned as a minor. But Motown Records only paid him $1 million of the approximate $30 million he’d made so far.  However, label owner Berry Gordy threw a huge 21st birthday party for Stevie in Detroit.

Still in 1971, Grace Slick smashed her Mercedes into a concrete wall near San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park.  Her injuries put a temporary halt to Jefferson Airplane’s recording schedule.

In 1972, actor Dan Blocker, who played Hoss Cartwright on the longrunning TV western Bonanza, died following surgery at age 43.

In 1974, some 50-plus people were injured when fans who couldn’t get tickets rioted outside a Jackson Fiveconcert at RFK Stadium in Washington, D-C.

In 1975, Bob Wills, originator of the western swing style of country music, died at age 70 after suffering a stroke 18 months earlier. Wills and his Texas Playboys, a swing band with country overtones, played country ballads, blues and jazz tunes. When the band and vocalist Tommy Duncan recorded Wills’s composition “San Antonio Rose” in 1940, the disc became a million-seller, as did a version by Bing Crosby.

In 1977, Dolly Parton played her first date in New York City, a performance at the Bottom Line club in Greenwich Village.

Also in 1977, Linda Ronstadt denied reports saying she had been offered $1 million to be photographed nude for a Hustler centerfold.

Still in 1977, the EMI label in the UK and Capitol Records in North America released “The Beatles at the Hollywood Bowl,” an LP comprised of live recordings made during the Fab Four’s tours of the US and Canada in 1964 and ’65.

In 1978, Yvonne Elliman went to No.1 on the Billboard singles chart with the Gibb brothers song ‘If I Can’t Have You’.  Thus Barry Gibb became the first songwriter in history to have four consecutive No. 1 singles atop Billboard’s Hot 100.

Also in 1978, the final episode of “Bionic Woman” was broadcast.

In 1981, singer Joan Weber died of heart failure at a mental institution in Ancora, New Jersey, at age 45. She had just one hit, the 1954 No.1 single ‘Let Me Go Lover.’

In 1985, Montreal-born comedienne/actress & scriptwriter Selma Diamond died of lung cancer at age 64.  She is best remembered for her TV talk show appearances, and for her roles as Too Close For Comfort’s Mildred Rafkin, and Night Court’s Selma Hacker.

Also in 1985, rock star Bruce Springsteen married actress Julianne Phillips at 10 minutes past midnight (on her 25th birthday) in a secret ceremony in Oregon. The marriage fell apart in 1988.

Still on this date in 1985, on his 35th birthday Stevie Wonder was cited by the United Nations for his efforts against apartheid.

In 1986, in an appearance on sex therapist Dr. Ruth Westheimer’s TV show, rocker Ted Nugent demurely stated, “Life is one big female safari.”

In 1987, Victoria-born songwriter David Foster was named songwriter of the year at the Broadcast Music Incorporated dinner in Los Angeles. Foster was honoured for ”Glory of Love” from ”The Karate Kid, Part Two,” the ”Love Theme” and ”Man in Motion” from ”St. Elmo’s Fire” and ”Now and Forever (You and Me).”

In 1988, jazz trumpeter Chet Baker, famed for his 1950’s appearances with baritone saxophonist Gerry Mulligan, died in a three-storey fall from an Amsterdam hotel. He was 58. Police said Baker was using heroin shortly before his fatal plunge. Baker set the standard for the cool school of jazz with his trumpet playing, but his career suffered from a series of narcotics arrests.

Also on this date in 1988, Iron Maiden opened a world tour in Moncton.

Still on this date in 1988, pioneer rock ‘n’ roll Disc-Jockey Alan Freed and big band leader Benny Goodman were among the first 18 inductees into the Radio Hall of Fame in New York.

In 1989, “I’ll Be There for You” by Bon Jovi topped the charts, the group’s fourth  No.1.

Also in 1989, the 600th episode of “Soul Train” was aired.

In 1991, jazz cornetist Jimmy McPartland lost his battle with lung cancer at age 83.

In 1992, CBC’s VP of Public Affairs Trina McQueen moved the network’s flagship TV news shows The Nationaland The Journal from 10 pm slot to 9 pm.  The move was a failure & was soon reversed.

Also in 1992, the final episode of “Night Court” aired on NBC-TV.

In 1993, the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Bette Midler and Barry White lent their voices to the season finale of the Fox-TV animated series “The Simpsons.” The episode, “Krusty Gets Kancelled,” marked White’s second “Simpsons” guest appearance.

Also in 1993, CBS’ Knots Landing ended a 14 year run with the 334th show in the Netherlands.  The same night, Arsenio Hall‘s 1,000th show retrospective was seen on Dutch TV.

In 1996, the 200th episode of “Murphy Brown” aired on CBS.

In 1997, the band No Doubt‘s performance on MuchMusic’s “Intimate and Interactive” show was beamed from Toronto to HMV music stores across the country, as well as in New York, Singapore and Sydney, Australia. The company estimated that more than 11-thousand fans jammed the stores worldwide. They were able to link up with the group for a question-and-answer session that followed the concert.

Also on this date in 1997, Paul McCartney‘s first album in four years, “Flaming Pie,” was released in Britain. It came out in North America two weeks later.

In 2001, Destiny’s Child started a two-week run at No.1 on the Billboard album chart with ‘Survivor’.

In 2002, Dionne Warwick was arrested at Miami International Airport for possession of marijuana after authorities found 11 joints in a lipstick case in the singer’s hand luggage. The charges were dropped after she completed a drug program and made a contribution to charity.

In 2003, Michael Jackson launched a court action against Motown Records, claiming he hadn’t been paid royalties for the music he did with the Jackson Five in the 60s and 70s.

Also in 2003, Edmonton-born Tommy Chong of Cheech & Chong pleaded guilty to selling drug paraphernalia over the Internet, in return for non-prosecution of his wife.  He served 9 months in a US federal prison.

In 2004, veteran Chicago TV anchorman Floyd Kalber, nicknamed “The Big Tuna,” who was a frequent contributor to NBC TV’s ‘Today,’ died of emphysema at age 79.

Also in 2004, the final episode of “Frasier” aired on NBC.

Still in 2004, Courtney Love pleaded not guilty to assault charges stemming from an incident in which she allegedly struck a man in the head with a microphone stand at a New York show the previous March. After entering her plea Ms. Love conducted an impromptu press conference inside the women`s bathroom.

Again in 2004, Gene Simmonsf KISS set off a firestorm with anti-Islam comments while the group was touring Australia. Stating the western world was under threat from extremists and a culture that treats women worse than dogs, he dismissed the Arab world as “God’s armpit.”

In 2005, the syndicated Star Trek: Enterprise aired its final episode on TV stations coast-to-coast in North America.

In 2006, Godsmack were at No.1 on the Billboard album chart with ‘IV’ the American heavy metal band’s second No.1 album.

In 2007, Brian May of Queen was under 24-hour security watch after a deranged man announced he was setting off to murder him – then disappeared. Police were hunting for a schizophrenic who left a letter behind at his home blaming the Queen guitarist for his illness.

Also in 2007, after not feeling well during a gig in Council Bluffs, Iowa the day before, and then becoming noticeably disoriented the following day, Bo Diddley was diagnosed as having suffered a mild stroke and was hospitalized in nearby Omaha, Nebraska. He would live another 13 months.

Still in 2007, Ne-Yo was at No.1 on the Billboard album chart with ‘Because of You’ the US R&B singers second No.1.

In 2008, the US Postal Service issued a 42-cent postage stamp in honor of Frank Sinatra. The design showed a 1950s-vintage image of Sinatra, wearing a hat.

Also in 2008, Canadian rocker Bryan Adams‘ “11” (his eleventh album) was released in the U.S., but only through Wal-Mart and Sam’s Club stores nationwide.

In 2009, actor Frank Aletter succumbed to cancer at age 83.  He starred in the early TV sitcoms Bringing Up Buddy and The Cara Williams Show, and guest starred in scores of other series over a span of 30 years.

In 2010, one of the most prolific organists in the Golden Age of Radio, Rosa Rio died at age 107.  During her 22 years in radio, the “Queen of the Soaps” provided the organ background music for 24 soap operas and radio dramas, and played for an average of five to seven shows per day, including Bob and Ray, Ethel and Albert, Front Page Farrell, Lorenzo Jones, My True Story, The Shadow and When a Girl Marries.

Also in 2010, Bruce Springsteen was a surprise guest at the 21st annual Rainforest Foundation benefit concert at New York’s Carnegie Hall. Springsteen performed “Dancing In The Dark” at the fund-raiser hosted by Sting and his wife, Trudie Styler.

In 2012, legendary Soul and Blues bassist Donald ‘Duck’ Dunn passed away in Tokyo while on tour at age 70. Aside from being a member of Booker T. & The MGs, Dunn played on Otis Redding’s “Respect,” Sam and Dave’s “Hold On I’m Coming” and Albert King’s “Born Under A Bad Sign.” But he is probably best known for his work in the Blues Brothers movie.

In 2013, psychologist and TV personality Joyce Brothers, who first gained fame by winning the top prize as a boxing expert on CBS-TV’s  “$64,000 Question,” died from respiratory failure at age 85.

Today’s Birthdays:

Folk singer/producer Fred Hellerman (The Weavers) is 87.

Actress Zohra Lampert (Doctors’ Hospital, The Girl with Something Extra) is 77.

Canadian pop-country singer Lucille Starr is 76.

Actor Buck Taylor (Monroes, Gunsmoke) is 76.

Actor Harvey Keitel (Life on Mars, The Path to 9/11) is 75.

Guitarist Ralph Cole, of the 1970s Canadian rock group Lighthouse is 67.

Actress Zoe Wanamaker (Poirot, My Family) is 65.

Comedian/actor Franklin Ajaye (Deadwood) is 65.

Singer Stevie Wonder is 64.

Rock singer Peter Gabriel (Genesis) is 64.

Manitoba-born singer/songwriter Tom Cochrane is 60.

Country singer/songwriter Ray Kennedy is 60.

Actress Julianne Phillips (Sisters) is 54.

Actor Tom Verica (The Nine, American Dreams, Providence) is 50.

Comedian/satirist Stephen Colbert (The Colbert Report) is 50.

Drummer John Richardson of The Gin Blossoms is 50.

Country singer Lari White is 49.

Singer Darius Rucker of Hootie and the Blowfish is 48.

Actress Susan Floyd (Law & Order, Then Came You) is 46.

Drummer Andy Williams of Casting Crowns is 42.

Actress Samantha Morton (Max & Ruby) is 37.

TV hostess Brooke Anderson(The Insider, Showbiz Tonight) is 36.

Ottawa-born actress Janet Lane (Demons from Her Past, Bethune) is 36.

Bassist Mickey Madden of Maroon 5 is 35.

Actor Michael Mantenuto (Dirtbags) is 33.

Actor Robert Pattinson (Twilight Saga) is 28.

Writer/producer/actress Lena Dunham (Girls) is 28.

Actress Candice Accola (The Vampire Diaries) is 27.

Actor Hunter Parrish (Weeds) is 27.

Actor Misha Gabriel Hamilton (Massholes) is 27.

Actress/singer/songwriter Debby Ryan (Jessie, The Suite Life On Deck) is 21.

Chart Toppers – May 13

1950
My Foolish Heart – The Gordon Jenkins Orchestra (vocal: Eileen Wilson)
It Isn’t Fair – The Sammy Kaye Orchestra (vocal: Don Cornell)
The Third Man Theme – Anton Karas
Long Gone Lonesome Blues – Hank Williams

1959
The Happy Organ – Dave ‘Baby’ Cortez
Sorry (I Ran All the Way Home) – The Impalas
Kookie, Kookie (Lend Me Your Comb) – Edward Byrnes & Connie Stevens
White Lightning – George Jones

1968
Honey – Bobby Goldsboro
Tighten Up – Archie Bell & The Drells
The Good, the Bad and the Ugly – Hugo Montenegro
Have a Little Faith – David Houston

1977
Hotel California – Eagles
When I Need You – Leo Sayer
Sir Duke – Stevie Wonder
Play, Guitar Play – Conway Twitty

1986
West End Girls – Pet Shop Boys
Greatest Love of All – Whitney Houston
Why Can’t This Be Love – Van Halen
Grandpa (Tell Me ’bout the Good Old Days) – The Judds

1995
This is How We Do It – Montell Jordan
Have You Ever Really Loved a Woman? – Bryan Adams
Water Runs Dry – Boyz II Men
Little Miss Honky Tonk – Brooks & Dunn

2004
This Love – Maroon 5
Take My Breath Away – Jessica Simpson
Naughty Girl – Beyoncé Knowles
You’ll Think of Me – Keith Urban

ON THIS DAY in 1907

author Leslie Charteris, who created the crime fighting character of The Saint which had successful runs on both radio & TV, was born in Singapore.

In 1908, wireless radio broadcasting was patented by Nathan B Stubblefield. He called it “Wireless Telephony” and his demonstrations maxed at a quarter-mile.

In 1910, orchestra leader Gordon Jenkins was born in Webster Grove Missouri. He was very active in bigtime radio, scoring music for The Mayor of theTown, The Man Called X, Al Jolson, Jack Carson & Dick Haymes, to name just a few. He also worked as musical director at Decca & Capitol Records where he recorded with some of the top stars of the day, including Frank Sinatra & Nat Cole.  He died of ALS May 1 1984 a few days before his 74th birthday.

In 1914, radio & TV newsman Howard K Smith was born in Ferriday Louisiana.  He covered WWII in Europe as one of ‘Murrows Boys’ for CBS radio.  He moderated the first Kennedy-Nixon presidential debate, and went on to be anchor of the ABC evening TV news.   He died Feb 18 2002 at age 87.

In 1930, syndicated gossip columnist Walter Winchell made his radio debut on New York’s WABC.  Quickly picked up by the network he went on to become a Sunday night institution for the next 27 years, 18 of them under the banner ‘The Jergens Journal.’

In 1934, the song “Cocktails For Two” by Duke Ellington hit #1.

In 1937, the BBC broadcast the coronation of King George VI via shortwave radio to listeners around the world.  It was the corporation’s first “outside” broadcast.

In 1955, Winnipeg-born singer Gisele MacKenzie introduced her soon-to-be hit song, Hard to Get, as part of her dramatic role on the NBC-TV series ‘Justice.’ By the end of the summer the single had risen to number four on the Billboard pop music chart.

In 1958, “All I Have to Do Is Dream” by Everly Brothers topped the charts and stayed there for 5 weeks. The same week “Nee Nee Na Na Na Na Nu Nu” by Dicky Doo & The Dont’s hit #40.

Also in 1958, Johnny Mathis recorded his next entry in the pop music Top 20, ‘A Certain Smile.’

In 1959, after divorcing Debbie Reynolds singer Eddie Fisher married actress Elizabeth Taylor. It was his second marriage and her fourth. They divorced in 1964.

In 1960, Frank Sinatra and Elvis Presley, who was just back from his military service in Germany, appeared on the ABC TV special ‘Welcome Back Elvis.” Each performed the other’s hit; Elvis sang “Witchcraft” while Sinatra did “Love Me Tender.”

In 1961, in Hamburg, West Germany The Beatles signed a recording contract with producer Bert Kaempfert. Later the still little-known group played a gig at the coty’s Top Ten Club.

In 1963, Bob Dylan was supposed to appear on TV’s “Ed Sullivan Show,” but he walked out of rehearsals after he was forbidden to sing “Talking John Birch Society Blues.” The reason? Because the lyrics ‘mocked’ the US Military.

In 1964, Ray Charles‘ “Busted” won a Grammy as Best R&B Recording.

In 1965, the Rolling Stones re-recorded “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction” at the RCA Studios in Hollywood. They had first recorded it in Chicago two days earlier. It was the Hollywood version that was released and became the Stones’ signature song.

In 1967, shares in Toronto radio station CHUM first traded on the Toronto Stock Exchange. Under Allan Waters the CHUM organization grew to become one of the largest media empires in Canada; it’s currently owned by Bell Media.

Also in 1967, UK band Procol Harum released their first single, “A Whiter Shade of Pale,” which stands as their biggest hit. Co-writer Keith Reid got the title at a party when someone told a woman, “You’ve turned a whiter shade of pale.”

In 1968, Jimi Hendrix was arrested for possession of hashish and heroin when he crossed the border for a concert in Toronto. He claimed the drugs were planted and he was later exonerated.

Also in 1968, CBS-TV’s Ed Sullivan Show was headlined by Gary Puckett and the Union Gap performing “Lady Willpower” & “Young Girl.’  Richard Pryor, Rodney Dangerfield and David Frye were the featured comedians.

In 1971, Jerry Lee Lewis was granted a divorce from his cousin Myra.

In 1972, the Rolling Stones released their 12th studio album “Exile on Main St.”

Also in 1972, Apple Records released the single “Mary Had a Little Lamb” by Paul McCartney & Wings. It failed to make it into the Top 20.

In 1973, “Dueling Tubas” by comedian Martin Mull appeared on the charts at #92.

In 1975, Jefferson Starship gave a free concert for a crowd of 60,000 in New York’s Central Park. Later the band and sponsor of the concert WNEW-FM were charged $14,000 to cover the cost of the clean-up and damage the mob did to the park.

In 1977, The Eagles were awarded a Gold Record for the hit, Hotel California. The award was the second of three Gold Record singles for the group. The other million sellers were New Kid in Town and Heartache Tonight.

Also in 1977, Virgin Records announced they had signed the Sex Pistols. That was the group’s third label in five months (EMI and A&M were the other two).

In 1979, the new version of Jefferson Starship  made their debut at a free concert at Golden Gate Park in San Francisco.  Mickey Thomas was the new lead vocalist, replacing Grace Slick.

In 1980, Linda Ronstadt was awarded a Gold Record for her “Mad Love” album.

In 1981, Van Halen kicked off their 82-concert Fair Warning Tour of the US and Canada at the Metro Centre in Halifax.

In 1982, the final episode of “The Incredible Hulk” was broadcast.

In 1983, 35-year-old singer Marvin Lee Aday, better known as Meatloaf filed for bankruptcy.

In 1984, the song “Hello” by Lionel Richie topped the charts and stayed there for 2 weeks.

In 1985, Lionel Richie received an honorary Doctor of Music degree from Tuskegee Institute in Alabama (his alma mater). Richie had put 14 hits on the pop charts in the 1980s, including one platinum smash, Endless Love (with Diana Ross) and four gold records (Truly, All Night Long, Hello and Say You, Say Me).

Also in 1985, singer Phil Collins kicked off the North American leg of his No Jacket Required World Tour at the Centrum in Worcester, Massachusetts.

In 1987, the final episode of “Hill Street Blues” aired on NBC.

Also in 1987, all 40-thousand tickets for three upcoming Pink Floyd concerts at the Forum in Montreal sold out in 4½ hours.

In 1989, the 2000th edition of syndicated TV’s “Entertainment Tonight” was aired.

Also in 1989, drummer Ron Wilson of the Surfaris (Wipe Out) suffered a fatal brain aneurysm at age 43.

In 1990, for just the 3rd time, “Saturday Night Live” utilized a time delay because the controversial (& unpredictable) Andrew Dice Clay (above) was hosting.

In 1992, actor Robert Reed, who starred in two TV series, The Defenders & The Brady Bunch, died of AIDS at age 59.

Also in 1992, Rod Halford of Judas Priest held a press conference in L.A. to deny rumors he was HIV positive or had AIDS.

In 1993, the last broadcast of “Cheers” was telecast on NBC.  The same night, CBS aired the finale of “Knots Landing.”

Also in 1993, the final episode of the 6 year run of ABC’s “Wonder Years” was seen in the Netherlands.

In 1995, former member of The Monkees Peter Tork guested in the “Career Day” episode, during the second season of the ABC-TV sitcom “Boy Meets World.”

In 1996, Hootie & the Blowfish went to No.1 on the Billboard album chart with ‘Fairweather Johnson’.

Also in 1998, the UK media reported that Elton John had fired his manager of 30 years, John Reid. The reports said the two had clashed over the star’s career as well as financial issues.

In 1999, George Jones pleaded guilty in Franklin, Tenn., to driving while impaired and violating the state’s open-container law, in charges stemming from his near-fatal March 6 car accident. Jones, who got to keep his driver’s license, was fined $550.

Also in 1999, the final episode of “The Nanny” was aired by CBS.

In 2000, British hooligans stole the 10 foot iron gates to Strawberry Fields, the Salvation Army house immortalized in The Beatles song. Later the gates were located in the hands of local scrap metal dealers.

In 2001, the singing barber, Perry Como, a first-line star of radio, TV & recording, died at age 88.  He scored fourteen No.1 singles among 150 US chart hits, including the singles ‘It’s Impossible,’  ‘Magic Moments’ and ‘Catch A Falling Star.’  In the 1960’s Como had been television’s highest-paid performer.

In 2002, Dionne Warwick was arrested at Miami International Airport when baggage screeners found 11 marijuana cigarettes inside her lipstick container.

Also in 2002, Tom Hamilton‘s (Aerosmith) home in Cape Cod was destroyed by a fire. The house was under construction at the time.

Still in 2002, the 200th episode of “X-Files” aired on FOX.

Again in 2002, Big Tymers were at No.1 on the US album chart with ‘Hood Rich.’

In 2004, Barry and Robin Gibb of the Bee Gees were presented with honorary degrees from Manchester University. They also picked up a posthumous award for their brother Barry. The brothers had once lived nearby the university in Manchester City.

In 2005, Edson (Alberta) radio station CJYR and its 4 rebroadcasters began a format change to Classic Hits that ended the next morning at 7 when The Fox Radio Group was launched.  The new calls were CFXE Edson, CFXGGrande Cache, CFXH Hinton, CFXP Jasper and CFXW Whitecourt.

In 2006, Metallica’s James Hetfield was honored at the second annual MusiCares MAP Fund benefit concert in Hollywood. He received the Stevie Ray Vaughan Award for his “devotion to helping other addicts with the recovery process.”

In 2007, U2 guitarist The Edge received an honorary doctor of music degree from Boston’s Berklee College of Music. He was acknowledged “for their enduring contributions to American and international culture.”

In 2008, Canadian singer-songwriter Neil Young had a spider named after him. East Carolina University biologist Jason Bond discovered a new species of trapdoor spider and opted to name it after his favourite musician. In 2007 Myrmekiaphila neilyoungi were first located in Jefferson County, Alabama.

In 2011, the video for Steven Tyler’s solo single “(It) Feels So Good,” had its debut on Fox TV’s American Idol. The Aerosmith frontman also was serving as a judge on Idol.

In 2012, The Eagles were presented with an honorary doctorate from the Berklee College of Music at the school’s commencement ceremony at Boston University.

Also in 2012, Kid Rock teamed up with the Detroit Symphony Orchestra at Fox Theatre for a fundraising concert to benefit the orchestra. The show raised more than $1 million.

In 2013, actress Ruth Foster (above), who portrayed Walnut Grove’s post-mistress on 61 episodes of the NBC TV frontier series Little House on the Prairie (and several TV movies under the Little House banner), died of natural causes at age 92.

Today’s Birthdays:

Composer Burt Bacharach is 86.

Actress Susan Hampshire (Monarch of the Glen, The Grand, The Forsyte Saga) is 77.

Actress Millie Perkins (Knots Landing, Any Day Now, Young & the Restless) is 76.

Country singer Billy Swan is 72.

Actress/talk show host Linda Dano (Another World, Attitudes) is 71.

Keyboardist Ian McLagen of Small Faces and The Faces is 69.

Singer Steve Winwood is 66.

Actress Lindsay Crouse (Dragnet 2003, Buffy the Vampire Slayer) is 66.

Actor Bruce Boxleitner (Babylon 5, Scarecrow & Mrs. King) is 64.

Singer Billy Squier is 64.

Actor Gabriel Byrne (Vikings, In Treatment, Madigan Men, Wagner) is 64.

Country singer Kix Brooks of Brooks and Dunn is 59.

Actress Kim Greist (Chicago Hope, Wiseguy) is 56.

Actor Ving Rhames (Gravity, The District, Kojak 2005) is 55.

Edmonton-born comedian/writer/actor Bruce McCulloch (Kids in the Hall, Sat. Night Live) is 53.

Guitarist Billy Duffy of The Cult is 53.

Actor Emilio Estevez (Rated X, Late Last Night) is 52.

Actress April Grace (Joan of Arcadia) is 52.

Keyboardist Eddie Kilgallon (Ricochet) is 49.

Actor Stephen Baldwin (The Young Riders) is 48.

Actress Vanessa Williams (Soul Food, Melrose Place) is 51.

Vancouver-born actress Deborah Kara Unger (The Hot Zone, The Rat Pack) is 50.

Actress Kim Fields (Living Single, Facts of Life, Diff’rent Strokes) is 45.

Actress Samantha Mathis (Aaron’s Way, Knightwatch) is 43.

Actress Jamie Luner (Melrose Place, Profiler) is 43.

Toronto-born actor Christian Campbell (Book of Daniel, All My Children, The $treet) is 42.

Actor Mackenzie Astin (Facts of Life) is 41.

Toronto-born actor Aaron Abrams (Hannibal) is 36.

Actor Jason Biggs (Total Security, As the World Turns) is 36.

Ontario-raised actress Malin Akerman (Trophy Wife, Childrens’ Hospital, The Comeback) is 36.

Actor Aaron Yoo (The Tomorrow People) is 35.

Actor Rami Malek (The Pacific, The War at Home) is 35.

Ontario-born actress Emily VanCamp (Revenge, Everwood, Brothers & Sisters) is 28.

Actress Clare Bowen (Nashville) is 25.

Actor Malcolm David Kelley (Lost) is 22.

Acting twins Sullivan and Sawyer Sweeten (Everybody Loves Raymond) are 19.

Chart Toppers – May 12

1949
Cruising Down the River – The Russ Morgan Orchestra (vocal: The Skyliners)
Forever and Ever – Perry Como
Careless Hands – Mel Torme
Lovesick Blues – Hank Williams

1958
All I Have to Do is Dream – The Everly Brothers
Wear My Ring Around Your Neck – Elvis Presley
Return to Me – Dean Martin
Oh Lonesome Me – Don Gibson

1967
Somethin’ Stupid – Nancy Sinatra & Frank Sinatra
The Happening – The Supremes
Sweet Soul Music – Arthur Conley
Need You – Sonny James

1976
Welcome Back – John Sebastian
Right Back Where We Started From – Maxine Nightingale
Boogie Fever – Sylvers
My Eyes Can Only See as Far as You – Charley Pride

1985
Crazy for You – Madonna
Don’t You Forget About Me – Simple Minds
One Night in Bangkok – Murray Head
Somebody Should Leave – Reba McEntire

1994
The Sign – Ace Of Base
Return to Innocence – Enigma
I’ll Remember – Madonna
A Good Run of Bad Luck – Clint Black

2003
Rock Your Body – Justin Timberlake
Ignition – R. Kelly
Sing for the Moment – Eminem
Have You Forgotten? – Darryl Worley

ON THIS DAY in 1888

American songwriter Irving Berlin was born Israel Isidor Baline in Siberia, Russia.  Whether for Broadway musicals or films, for humorous songs or romantic ballads, his compositions are celebrated for their appealing melodies and memorable lyrics. His many popular songs include “There’s No Business Like Show Business,” “God Bless America,” and “White Christmas.” In 1968 Berlin received a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award.  He died following a heart attack Sept. 22 1989 at age 101.

In 1911, Emmy-winning comedian Phil Silvers was born Philip Silversmith in New York City.  He was the original con man Sgt Bilko who starred in 143 episodes of You’ll Never Get Rich: The Phil Silvers Show in the late 1950’s.  Later he had a recurring role on The Beverly Hillbillies.  He died after a heart attack Nov 1, 1985 at age 74.

In 1911, comedian Doodles (Winstead) Weaver was born in Los Angeles. He was the brother of NBC-TV executive Sylvester “Pat” Weaver and the uncle of actress Sigourney Weaver, but was best known for his appearances & recordings with Spike Jones & His City Slickers.  He died by his own hand Jan 17 1983 at age 71, after years of alcoholism & failing health.

In 1912, comedian & actor Foster Brooks was born in Louisville. He was a radio newscaster and disc jockey in Louisville and Buffalo before switching to TV newscasting. Brooks moved to L.A. in the 60s and began acting in television. He then began his drunk act, which went over well with crowds at Las Vegas nightclubs and on television. Brooks was a frequent guest on talk and variety shows and numerous Dean Martin celebrity roasts. Despite his on-screen personna he actually quit drinking in the early 1960s, on a bet, and remained a teetotaler for the rest of his life. He died Dec. 20 2001 at age 89.

In 1913, orchestra leader Tutti Camarata was born in Glen Ridge New Jersey. He played trumpet for bands such as Jimmy and Tommy Dorsey, Benny Goodman and others. He also did arranging for Glen Gray and the Casa Loma Orchestra, Goodman, Louis Armstrong, Bing Crosby, Billie Holliday, Ella Fitzgerald, & Duke Ellington. He was musical director for several TV shows including Startime, The Vic Damone Show and The Alcoa Hour. He died April 13 2005 at age 91.

In 1920, actor Denver Pyle was born in Bethune, Colorado. He is best remembered for his role as Uncle Jesse on TV’s “The Dukes of Hazzard” (1979).  He also left his mark on other series, The Life and Times of Grizzly Adams (1977-78 ), The Doris Day Show (1968-70), and the Andy Griffith Show (1960-68.) He died of lung cancer Dec 25, 1997 at age 77.

In 1928, General Electric’s WGY-TV in Schenectady, NY began the first schedule of regular TV programs. A very short schedule, mind you. WGY offered programming to the upstate New York audience three times a week using the mechanical scanning method. And mechanical scanning was NOT to be the wave of the future. It was electrical scanning, developed by Philo Farnsworth, that would make television available to the masses.

In 1935, actor Doug McClure was born in Glendale Calif. Although he made more than 500 appearances in his career, he is undoubtedly best remembered as Trampas in the series The Virginian (1962-66) and Backtrack! (1969).  He died of lung cancer Feb 5 1995 at age 59.

In 1944, the Bureau of Broadcast Measurement (BBM) was formed as a non-profit Canadian radio ratings service. Advertisers and advertising agencies controlled two-thirds of the votes, broadcasters the other third of the power.

In 1946, Jack Barry, later a familiar face on TV game shows, hosted Juvenile Jury on WOR radio in New York City. The show was such a hit after five weeks on the air that it debuted on the Mutual Broadcasting System coast to coast. Maybe Barry became a bit too familiar in 1959. It was Twenty One, the enormously popular show that Barry hosted, that led to the Quiz Show Scandal that rocked television and the U.S. Congress.

In 1953, the No. 1 Billboard Pop Hit was “The Song from Moulin Rouge,” by Canadian-born Percy Faith & his Orchestra & vocalist Felicia Sanders.

In 1956, the pioneering kids TV show, The Pinky Lee Show, aired for the final time  on NBC-TV.

In 1957, Buddy Holly and the Crickets auditioned for CBS-TV’s “Arthur Godfrey’s Talent Scouts,” but unfortunately were rejected without getting to the air.

Also in 1957, the Everly Brothers made their debut on WSM’s “Grand Ole Opry” in Nashville, singing their first hit “Bye Bye Love.”

In 1959, Annette Funicello (below) made the first of her six appearances as Gina Minelli on the CBS-TV Danny Thomas sitcom “Make Room For Daddy,” in the episode “Gina from Italy.”

Also in 1959, “The Happy Organ” by Dave ‘Baby’ Cortez topped the charts and stayed there for just a week.

Still in 1959, “Kookie, Kookie Lend Me Your Comb” by Ed Byrnes & Connie Stevens hit #4 on the charts.

Again in 1959, Elvis Presley made his first entry on the UK charts with “Heartbreak Hotel.”

In 1963, “Puff (The Magic Dragon)” by Peter, Paul & Mary hit #2 on the pop charts.

Also in 1963, The Beatles started a 30 week run at No.1 on the UK album charts with their debut album ‘Please Please Me’, making it the longest running No.1 album by a group ever.

In 1964, the No. 1 Billboard Pop Hit was “My Guy,” by Mary Wells. It was the first No. 1 hit for the Motown label.

Also in 1964, the Grand Hotel in Bristol England refused to serve the Rolling Stones because they weren’t wearing jackets or ties.

Still in 1964, Capitol Records released the Beach Boys‘ first #1 hit “I Get Around,” with another Top 40 hit on the B side,  “Don’t Worry Baby.”

Again in 1964, Al Martino released his future Top 20 hit single “Tears And Roses.”

In 1965, The Byrds made their TV debut, performing “Mr. Tambourine Man” on NBC TV’s music showcase “Hullabaloo.”

In 1967, the ABC-TV special “Rodgers & Hart Today” was telecast. It starred Bobby Darin, the Supremes, Petula Clark and the Mamas & the Papas.

In 1968, Dunhill Records released their soon-to-be smash hit version of Jimmy Webb’s “MacArthur Park,” as sung/spoken by UK actor Richard Harris.

In 1969, in the UK, the Monty Python comedy troupe was formed by John Cleese, Graham Chapman, Terry Gilliam, Eric Idle, Terry Jones, and Michael Palin. Their classic sketch show “Monty Python’s Flying Circus,” first aired on BBC television October 5 of that year.

In 1970, the Chairmen of the Board were awarded a Gold Record for their biggest hit, Give Me Just a Little More Time. The Detroit group recorded three other songs in 1970, with just moderate success.

Also in 1970, The Beatles‘ recording of Paul McCartney’s “The Long and Winding Road” was released as a single in North America. Recorded at the end of January, it became the Beatles’ 20th and last #1 song in the U.S.

Still in 1970, the triple album “Woodstock” soundtrack was released on Cotillion Records.  It went Gold within two weeks.

In 1972, John Lennon appeared on ABC TV’s “Dick Cavett Show” (with his wife Yoko Ono) and said that the FBI had tapped his phone. He believed officials wanted him deported. Twenty years later proof was found that the Nixon administration regarded John to be a dangerous subversive.

Also in 1972, Rick Nelson recorded what would be his final Top 10 hit (and his first in a decade), “Garden Party.”  The number was based on Rick’s Madison Square Garden experience in which he was booed off stage for playing country-tinged tunes.

In 1973, in a concentrated three-hours of creativity, Stevie Wonder wrote and recorded his funk composition “Higher Ground.” Utilizing overdubs, Stevie played all the instruments on the future Top 5 track’, including drums.

In 1974, Steely Dan‘s biggest hit “Rikki, Don’t Lose That Number” was released on the ABC label.

Also in 1974, “Bad, Bad Leroy Brown” by Frank Sinatra hit #83 .. while “Tubular Bells” by Mike Oldfield rose to #7.

Still in 1974, Led Zeppelin attended Elvis Presley‘s show at the Los Angeles Forum. After a shaky start to the show, Elvis stopped his band and jokingly said: “Wait a minute…if we can start together fellas, because we’ve got Led Zeppelin out there, let’s try to look like we know what we’re doing.”

In 1975, Cher‘s new boyfriend, Gregg Allman of the Allman Brothers, appeared as a guest on her CBS-TV show. The two sang a duet “Don’t Mess Up a Good Thing.”

In 1976, the final episode of “Marcus Welby, MD” aired on ABC-TV.

In 1979, bluegrass guitarist Lester Flatt, who with his partner Earl Scruggs is best remembered for the theme song for “The Beverly Hillbillies” (The Ballad of Jed Clampett), suffered heart failure after a long illness and died at age 64.

Also in 1979, Peaches and Herb were awarded a Platinum Record for their huge hit “Reunited.”

In 1981, reggae icon Bob Marley succumbed to lung and brain cancer in a Miami hospital at the age of 36. “Rastaman Vibration” was the highest-charting album by Bob Marley & the Wailers, reaching Billboard’s top 10 in 1976.

Also in 1981, Kim Carnes‘ “Bette Davis Eyes” hit #1 on the charts & stayed on top for 9 weeks.

In 1982, actor Cory Monteith was born in Calgary, and later became a resident of Victoria, where he attended the public school system.  He was best known for his role as Finn Hudson on the Fox television series Glee.  He had a troubled adolescence involving substance abuse from age twelve; he left school at age sixteen. After an intervention by family and friends, he entered drug rehabilitation at age nineteen. On July 13, 2013, he died in a Vancouver hotel room at age 31 of a toxic combination of heroin and alcohol.

In 1983, the final episode of “Quincy, M.E.” aired on NBC.

In 1985, “Crazy for You” by Madonna topped the charts .. but only for one week.

In 1989, the 217th & final episode of “Dynasty” was telecast on ABC.

Also in 1989, in New York Roy Orbison was posthumously inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame. His widow, Barbara, received the award from Eric Clapton.

In 1990, singer Ritchie Valens (“La Bamba,” “Donna”) was honored posthumously with a star on Hollywood’s Walk of Fame, 31 years after his death in a plane crash.

In 1991, the song “Joyride” by Roxette topped the charts .. but remained #1 for just one week.

In 1992, Baton Broadcasting bought former CBC affiliates CFPL-TV of London and CKNX-TV of Wingham, paying the Blackburn family $31.5 million.

Also in 1992, country singer Tammy Wynette underwent an intestinal bypass to treat a chronic abdominal ailment. Her surgery at a St. Louis hospital lasted 14 hours.

Still in 1992, the 100th episode of “Murphy Brown” aired on CBS.

In 1993, the 28th Annual Academy of Country Music Awards saw top honors go to Garth Brooks.

In 1995, Jimmie Vaughan, Eric Clapton, B.B. King, Buddy Guy and Robert Cray reunited for a tribute to Stevie Ray Vaughan in Austin, Texas, the late blues guitarist’s hometown. All five played with Stevie Ray at his last concert Aug. 26, 1990, just before his death in a helicopter crash.

In 1997, TV producer Brenda Carlin, wife of comedian George Carlin, died of liver cancer at age 57.

In 1998, “Portuguese Mosaic” became the first community-based programming to air on Camosun College’s campus radio station, Victoria’s CKMO-FM.

Also in 1998, country/pop singer Eddy Arnold, just days away from his 80th birthday, announced his retirement from show business.

In 1999, Shedaisy returned to their hometown, Salt Lake City, to sing at a charity dinner benefiting the Karl Malone Foundation for children’s charities. The performance was the first in their hometown for sisters Kristyn, Kelsi and Kassidy Osborn since the release of their debut album, “THE WHOLE Shebang.”

Also in 1999, CBS announced that it would provide high-definition prime-time programming beginning in September.

In 2002, more than 500 Michael Jackson fans held a demonstration outside the Sony records building in Berlin, complaining that the label hadn’t promoted the singer’s latest album ‘Invincible.’

In 2003, suffering from cirrhosis of the liver, bassist Noel Redding of the Jimi Hendrix Experience died at his home in Ireland at age 57. Redding played on the classic Hendrix albums ‘Are You Experienced’, ‘Axis: Bold as Love’ and ‘Electric Ladyland.’

Also in 2003, the “Brake My Wife Please” episode of the FOX-TV cartoon hit “The Simpsons” featured singer Jackson Browne in a duet with Homer on the soundstrack.

In 2005, Vancouver’s CIVT began testing it’s HD service on UHF channel 33 from Mount Seymour on the North Shore.

Also in 2005, former Led Zeppelin guitarist Jimmy Page played “Whole Lotta Love” before the opening bell at the New York Stock Exchange. The performance was in celebration of Warner Music Group’s (WMG) I.P.O. the day before.

In 2006, actor Frankie Thomas, the star of the juvenile adventure series “Tom Corbett Space Cadet” (below) on both radio and TV (he beat out Jack Lemmon for the role), died of respiratory failure following a stroke at age 85.

In 2007, rapper The Game was arrested at his home in connection with using a gun to threaten a person at a basketball game in Los Angeles three months earlier. He was released the next day, after posting $50,000 bail.

In 2008, drummer John Rutsey, a founding member of the Canadian band Rush, died in his sleep of an apparent heart attack related to his lifelong affliction with diabetes at age 54.

In 2011, big band trumpet veteran Snooky Young, who ended his career as a 20-year member of Doc Severinsen’s Tonight Show orchestra, died at age 92.

Also in 2011, the three surviving members of Pink Floyd performed together for the first time since ‘05’s Live 8 concert (and for only the second time in 30 years). David Gilmour and Nick Mason joined Roger Waters during the latter’s show at London’s O2 arena.

Stil in 2011, “Hot Sauce Committee Part Two,” the eighth studio effort from The Beastie Boys, made its debut at #1 on Billboard’s Alternative Albums, Rock Albums and Hip-Hop Albums charts, and #2 on the Hot 200.

In 2013, trumpeter and bandleader Ollie Mitchell, who played in big bands for Harry James, Buddy Rich and Pérez Prado, who played in  The Wrecking Crew and in Herb Alpert’s Tijuana Brass, as well as the NBC Symphony Orchestra, succumbed to cancer at age 86.

Today’s Birthdays: 

Montreal-born comedian Mort Sahl is 87. 

Actor Bernard Fox (Bewitched, Hogan’s Heroes) is 87.

Singer Eric Burdon (The Animals, War) is 73.

Actor Terry McGovern (Charlie & Company, Darkwing Duck) is 72.

Actress Shohreh Aghdashloo (24) is 62.

Actress Frances Fisher (Lyon’s Den, Glory Days, Becker) is 62.

Actor Boyd Gaines (Angela’s Eyes, One Day at a Time) is 61.

Drummer Mark Herndon of Alabama is 59.

Actress/former MTV VJ Martha Quinn (The Bradys) is 55.

Country singer Tim Raybon of the Raybon Brothers is 51.

Bassist Keith West of Heartland is 46.

Sechelt BC-born actor Aaron  Pearl (CBC’s Intelligence, numerous TV movies) is 42. 

Actor Coby Bell (Third Watch, LA Doctors, The Game) is 39.

Actress Andrea Anders (Mr. Sunshine, The Class, Joey) is 39.

UK actor Warren Brown (Luther, Grownups) is 36.

Actress Mary Elizabeth Ellis ( New Girl, It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia) is 35.

Actress Kulap Vilaysack (The McAingels) is 34.

Actor Austin O’Brien (Promised Land. Touched By an Angel) is 33.

Actor Jonathan Jackson (Nashville, General Hospital) is 32.

Singer/actress Holly Valance (Prison Break, Neighbours) is 31.

Rapper Ace Hood is 26.

Chart Toppers – May 11 

1948
Now is the Hour – Bing Crosby
Manana – Peggy Lee
The Dickey Bird Song – The Freddy Martin Orchestra vocal: Glenn Hughes)
Anytime – Eddy Arnold

1957
School Days – Chuck Berry
A White Sport Coat (And a Pink Carnation) – Marty Robbins
So Rare – Jimmy Dorsey
Gone – Ferlin Husky

1966
Monday Monday – The Mamas & The Papas
Sloop John B – The Beach Boys
Kicks – Paul Revere & The Raiders
I Want to Go with You – Eddy Arnold

1975
He Don’t Love You (Like I Love You) – Tony Orlando & Dawn
Before the Next Teardrop Falls – Freddy Fender
Jackie Blue – Ozark Mountain Daredevils
She’s Actin’ Single [I’m Drinkin’ Doubles] – Gary Stewart

1984
Against All Odds (Take a Look at Me Now) – Phil Collins
Hello – Lionel Richie
Hold Me Now – The Thompson Twins
I Guess It Never Hurts to Hurt Sometimes – The Oak Ridge Boys

1993
Freak Me – Silk
That’s the Way Love Goes – Janet Jackson
Love Is – Vanessa Williams & Brian McKnight
Alibis – Tracy Lawrence

2002
Don’t Let Me Get Me – Pink
Underneath Your Clothes – Shakira
All You Wanted- Michelle Branch
My List – Toby Keith

2011
E.T. – Katy Perry featuring Kanye West
Rolling in the Deep – Adele
Just Can’t Get Enough – The Black Eyed Peas
Live A Little – Kenny Chesney