2026-11-11 · On this day
November 11 in Rock History: Berry Oakley, Jason White (Green Day guitarist), Dave Alvin and 2 more
5 rock stories from November 11: concerts, releases, turning points and the people behind them.
1972: Berry Oakley
On November 11, 1972: Berry Oakley, American bass player (born 1948)
Berry Oakley was a founding member of the Allman Brothers Band, a prominent Southern rock group known for their blend of blues, country, and hard rock. He was a skilled bassist, recognized for his melodic playing style, which added depth and complexity to the band's sound.
Berry Oakley's death on November 11, 1972, marked a significant turning point in the Allman Brothers Band's history. He was just 24 years old at the time of his passing.
1973: Jason White (Green Day guitarist)
On November 11, 1973: Jason White, American singer-songwriter and guitarist
Jason White, the touring guitarist of Green Day, has been an integral part of the band since 1999. He has worked with the band in the studio and on tour, and has appeared in various music videos, including "When I Come Around" and "Wake Me Up When September Ends". White's contributions to Green Day's music have been significant, and he has been a key member of the band's live performances.
White's career with Green Day has been marked by several notable milestones, including his work on the band's 2012 trilogy, ¡Uno!, ¡Dos!, and ¡Tré!, where he joined the group as a session member. He is also a member of the punk band Pinhead Gunpowder, which features Green Day vocalist Billie Joe Armstrong, and has been involved in several of Green Day's side projects, including Foxboro Hot Tubs, the Network, and the Coverups.
1955: Dave Alvin
On November 11, 1955: Dave Alvin, American singer-songwriter and guitarist
Dave Alvin, born in 1955, is a singer-songwriter and guitarist known for his work in the roots rock genre. As a founding member of the Blasters, a roots rock band, Alvin's early career was marked by his energetic and soulful performances. The Blasters' music was a blend of rockabilly, blues, and country, which would later influence Alvin's solo work.
Dave Alvin's solo career took off in the late 1980s, with his debut album and subsequent releases showcasing his unique blend of roots rock and Americana. He has also been involved in various side projects and collaborations, including stints with the bands X and the Knitters. Alvin's music often features his distinctive guitar playing and storytelling style, which has endeared him to fans of roots rock and Americana.
1950: Jim Peterik
On November 11, 1950: Jim Peterik, American singer-songwriter and guitarist
Jim Peterik, born in 1950, is a renowned American musician and songwriter. As a vocalist and guitarist in The Ides of March, he gained recognition for his work in the band, which was a prominent act in the 1960s and 1970s.
Jim Peterik co-wrote the iconic anthem "Eye of the Tiger" for the 1982 film Rocky III, cementing his place in rock history. He is also the founder of the rock band Survivor, with whom he achieved significant success, including notable concerts and tours.
1945: Chris Dreja
On November 11, 1945: Chris Dreja, English guitarist and songwriter (died 2025)
Chris Dreja was born in 1945, marking the beginning of a career that would span multiple decades and genres. As a founding member of the English rock band The Yardbirds, Dreja played rhythm guitar and bass, contributing to the band's unique sound and style.
Dreja's time with The Yardbirds came to an end in the late 1960s, but his legacy lived on as the band was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1992. He continued to perform with The Yardbirds in later years, but a series of strokes forced him to retire from live touring around 2011.