World Rock Day

Why is Rock and Roll Day Celebrated on July 13?

If you're wondering why Rock and Roll Day is celebrated on July 13, KTS has a playlist to honor the event that inspired this celebration: Live Aid , a concert that brought together the most acclaimed exponents of world rock. Enjoy it while you read!

The History of Live Aid and the Origin of Rock and Roll Day

What Was Live Aid?

37 years ago, Live Aid was held, considered the largest charity concert in history. This event took place simultaneously in London and Philadelphia with the aim of raising funds to combat famine in Ethiopia. It was broadcast via satellite in more than 100 countries and became one of the most watched concerts in the world.

A Historic Concert to Remember

The epic concert, celebrated every July 13 as Rock Day , brought together the greatest exponents of world rock in a 24-hour event. Legendary artists took the stage with a noble mission: to raise funds to help Ethiopia, a country that had been facing a crisis of famine and civil war since 1975.

• Impact in Africa : One million Ethiopians died from malnutrition amid civil conflict. Thanks to Live Aid, $140 million was raised to help combat the humanitarian crisis.

The Birth of Band Aid

The images of the victims in Ethiopia had a profound impact on the world, triggering humanitarian responses from NGOs. Thus was born Band Aid , a non-profit organization founded by Irish and British musicians, which sought to provide aid to East Africa.

Live Aid 1985: The Concert That Changed History

First Steps: “Do They Know It's Christmas?”

Before Live Aid, Band Aid had already made significant strides with the single "Do They Know It's Christmas?" , which brought together artists such as Phill Collins, George Michael, U2 and Sting. This hit reached #1 on music charts around the world.

• Listen to it on Spotify : Do They Know It's Christmas?

“We Are The World”: The Voice of the Greats

Another anthem was "We Are The World" , written by Michael Jackson and Lionel Richie . Artists such as Cindy Lauper, Bob Dylan and Stevie Wonder participated in this song, joining their voices in a mission of solidarity.

• Listen on Spotify : We Are The World

Who Was the Best of Live Aid?

According to many sources, Queen gave one of the best performances in history, with 21 unforgettable minutes that thrilled millions of people.

A Stage of Legends

The concert also featured bands such as Queen, Led Zeppelin, Black Sabbath and The Who, alongside stars such as Paul McCartney . This historic event remains unparalleled, and its impact on music and humanitarian aid remains intact.

How Long Did the Live Aid Concert Last and Which Bands Performed?

The concert lasted a total of 16 hours, with simultaneous performances at Wembley Stadium in London and John F. Kennedy Stadium in Philadelphia.

Artists at Wembley Stadium (London)

• Status quo
• The Style Council
• The Boomtown Rats
• Adam Ant
• Ultravox
• Spandau Ballet
• Elvis Costello
• Nik Kershaw
• Sade
• Sting
• Phil Collins
• Bryan Ferry and David Gilmour
• Paul Young
• U2
• Dire Straits
• Queen
• David Bowie
• The Who
• Elton John
• Freddie Mercury and Brian May
• Paul McCartney
• Pete Townshend
• Bob Geldof
• Alison Moyet

Artists at John F. Kennedy Stadium (Philadelphia)

• Bernard Watson
• The Hooters
• The Four Tops
• Billy Ocean
• Black Sabbath
• Run DMC
• Rick Springfield
• REO Speedwagon
• Crosby, Stills & Nash
• Judas Priest
• Bryan Adams
• The Beach Boys
• George Thorogood & The Destroyers
• Simple Minds
• The Pretenders
• Santana
• Ashford & Simpson
• Madonna
• Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers
• Kenny Loggins
• The Cars
• Neil Young
• The Power Station
• Thompson Twins
• Eric Clapton
• Led Zeppelin
• Duran Duran
• Patti LaBelle
• Hall & Oates
• Mick Jagger
• Bob Dylan
• Keith Richards
• Ron Wood
• Lionel Richie
• Harry Belafonte

A Concert to Remember

Can you imagine attending a concert of this magnitude and enjoying artists who are rock icons? Without a doubt, the excitement of living this experience is unparalleled.

Chances are you have a few albums from these legendary rock bands on your vinyl shelf or in your vinyl record case . This July 13, celebrate Rock and Roll Day by unleashing your collection. Keep Them Spinning at full volume and long live rock!