Few dates in rock history hold as much tragedy and chaos as August 9. From legendary final performances to tragic losses and messy brawls, this single day has witnessed some of the most pivotal moments in rock history.
Whether you’re into glam, punk or Britpop — this date has something unforgettable for you.
Queen’s Final Performance
by FG/Bauer-Griffin/Getty Images
On August 9, 1986, Queen delivered what would unknowingly become their final live performance with Freddie Mercury at Knebworth Park in Hertfordshire, England. The Magic Tour concert drew a crowd of 120,000 fans, making it one of the largest audiences the band had ever performed for in their home country.
As the final songs of the evening, Queen chose “We Are the Champions” and “God Save the Queen” – an unintentional farewell that holds a lot more meaning in retrospect. Just five years later, on November 24, 1991, Mercury passed away from complications related to AIDS.
Kiss Reunites
Chris Walter/WireImage
In 1995, fans witnessed the original members of Kiss reunite for the first time since 1980. Peter Criss and Ace Frehley rejoined Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons to record their MTV Unplugged special, creating one of the most anticipated rock reunions of the ‘90s.
The performance included stripped-down versions of Kiss classics like “Beth,” “Plaster Caster” and “Goin’ Blind.” The success of this reunion eventually led to the band’s massive 1996-1997 Alive/Worldwide Tour, which became one of the highest-grossing tours of that era.
The Ramones Split
David Tan/Shinko Music/Getty Images
One year later, August 9, 1996, marked the end of another legendary chapter in rock history when The Ramones officially announced their breakup. After 22 years, the band that helped define punk rock decided to call it quits.
The Ramones’ breakup came after years of reported tensions, financial disagreements and the exhausting toll of life on the road. Their final show took place on August 6, 1996, at the Palace in Hollywood, just three days before the official announcement.
Jerry Garcia Passes Away
Photo by Nicolas Russell/Getty Images
Perhaps the most tragic event to occur on August 9th was the death of Grateful Dead’s beloved frontman Jerry Garcia in 1995. At age 53, Garcia suffered a heart attack at the Serenity Knolls treatment center in Forest Knolls, California, where he was seeking help for his long-standing struggles with drug addiction.
The Oasis Newcastle Incident
Photo by Dave Hogan/Getty Images
August 9, 1994, Oasis faced one of their most notorious incidents during a gig at Newcastle Riverside. During the performance, a fan jumped on stage and struck Noel Gallagher in the face. The guitarist refused to continue the show, leading the band to abruptly end their set.
This decision infuriated the crowd of Oasis fans who had paid to see a full performance. As the band attempted to leave the venue, their situation went from bad to worse. An angry mob of over 300 people surrounded and attacked the band’s tour bus.
