Musical #tbt: May 2

1969

The Who previewed their double leaf rock opera, Tommy, to eager press in London. The ambitious project went on to win a Tony and sell 20 million copies globally. In 1998, the Academy recognized Tommy for the masterful work it is, inducting the album into the Grammy Hall of Fame.

Tommy, the first clearly billed Rock Opera, changed the world of music forever.

1989

Three police cars responded to a call from a Zales security guard. Apparently a man walked into the California store wearing a wig, fake mustache and false teeth. Upon detaining the man, police uncovered a carefully disguised Michael Jackson.

2003

Brother Ali dropped his second album, Shadows on the Sun. The Uncle Sam Goddam rapper wasn’t having it from the sun or anyone else, rapping resiliently through whatever the world threw his way. On the album title Ali explained, “What I’m saying is that all the factors in the world that feel oppressive to me, this gift that God gave me, will give me the ability to overcome everything.”