Music · 1951
The Dawn of Rock and Multitrack Magic
In 1951, rhythm and blues began mutating into rock 'n' roll while studio innovation transformed pop production forever. From electrifying jukebox singles to groundbreaking radio broadcasts, music took a bold leap into a modern era.
- April 1951 • Jackie Brenston • R&B
Rocket 88
Recorded at Sam Phillips's Sun Studio with distorted guitar amplifiers, this driving track became widely celebrated as the first true rock 'n' roll record.
- March 1951 • Les Paul & Mary Ford • Pop
How High the Moon
Les Paul and Mary Ford revolutionized music production by using pioneering sound-on-sound multitrack recording techniques to create a dizzying, layer-filled number one hit.
- Sept 11, 1951 • Igor Stravinsky • Opera
The Rake's Progress
Igor Stravinsky conducted the world premiere of his celebrated neoclassical opera at the Teatro La Fenice in Venice, drawing global acclaim.
- October 1951 • Johnnie Ray • Pop
Cry
Johnnie Ray's emotionally charged, tearful delivery captivated listeners and launched him into stardom, presaging the dramatic performance styles of modern pop.
- 1951 • Hank Williams / Tony Bennett
Cold, Cold Heart
Hank Williams penned this classic country ballad, which gained massive crossover success after pop crooner Tony Bennett covered it the same year.
- May 1951 • The Dominoes • R&B
Sixty Minute Man
Featuring Billy Ward and His Dominoes, this cheeky vocal group track crossed over to the pop charts and laid the foundation for vocal group rock 'n' roll.
- July 1951 • Alan Freed • Cleveland
Moondog House Radio Show
DJ Alan Freed began broadcasting R&B records to a wide audience on WJW in Cleveland, popularizing the term 'rock and roll' across the airwaves.
- March 29, 1951 • Broadway • Musical
The King and I
Rodgers and Hammerstein's legendary musical opened on Broadway, starring Yul Brynner and Gertrude Lawrence to immediate critical and popular acclaim.
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