2026-11-05 · On this day
November 5 in Rock History: Kevin Jonas, Ryan Adams, Jonny Greenwood and 5 more
8 rock stories from November 5: concerts, releases, turning points and the people behind them.
1987: Kevin Jonas
On November 5, 1987: Kevin Jonas, American singer-songwriter, guitarist and actor
Kevin Jonas was born in 1987, marking the beginning of a career that would eventually lead him to become a prominent figure in the music industry. As the lead guitarist of the Jonas Brothers, Kevin, along with his brothers Joe and Nick, gained a significant following in the late 2000s through their appearances on the Disney Channel.
Kevin Jonas's career continued to evolve beyond his work with the Jonas Brothers. He has since pursued various projects, including acting and music ventures.
1974: Ryan Adams
On November 5, 1974: Ryan Adams, American singer-songwriter and guitarist
Ryan Adams was born in 1974, marking the beginning of a storied career in music. As a singer-songwriter and guitarist, Adams has released numerous albums, both as a solo artist and as a member of the band Whiskeytown. His early work with Whiskeytown, a roots-rock band, laid the groundwork for his later success as a solo artist.
Ryan Adams has had a prolific career, releasing 30 studio albums, including several critically acclaimed and commercially successful records. He has toured extensively, performing at numerous notable venues and festivals, and has made appearances on various television programs, including Saturday Night Live.
1971: Jonny Greenwood
On November 5, 1971: Jonny Greenwood, English guitarist and songwriter
Jonny Greenwood, born in 1971, is a highly influential English musician and composer, best known as the lead guitarist of the iconic rock band Radiohead. As a key member of Radiohead, Greenwood has been instrumental in shaping the band's unique sound, which blends alternative rock, electronic, and experimental elements. His innovative guitar playing and compositional skills have been widely praised, earning him recognition as one of the greatest guitarists in the industry.
Greenwood's work with Radiohead has been marked by numerous critically acclaimed albums, including OK Computer, Kid A, and In Rainbows, which have been widely influential in the development of alternative rock and electronic music. He has also composed music for various film scores, including There Will Be Blood and The Master, showcasing his versatility as a composer.
1956: Jeff Watson (guitarist)
On November 5, 1956: Jeff Watson, American guitarist and songwriter
Jeff Watson, an American guitarist and songwriter, was born in 1956. As a founding member and lead guitarist of the hard rock band Night Ranger, Watson's eight-fingered tapping technique became a signature aspect of his playing style, often performed alongside guitarist Brad Gillis.
Watson's tenure with Night Ranger spanned multiple albums and tours, including the band's breakthrough release, which brought them significant commercial success. He also appeared on various television programs, showcasing his guitar work to a broader audience.
1948: Peter Hammill
On November 5, 1948: Peter Hammill, English singer-songwriter, guitarist and producer
Peter Hammill, a founding member of the influential progressive rock band Van der Graaf Generator, has been a prominent figure in the genre since the 1960s. Born in 1948, Hammill's early career was marked by his work with the band, which was known for its complex and experimental sound. As a singer-songwriter, guitarist, and producer, Hammill has been recognized for his innovative approach to music.
Hammill's career has spanned multiple decades, with notable highlights including his work with Van der Graaf Generator and his solo releases. In 2012, he received the Visionary award at the first Progressive Music Awards, a testament to his enduring influence on the progressive rock genre.
1946: Gram Parsons
On November 5, 1946: Gram Parsons, American singer-songwriter and guitarist (died 1973)
Gram Parsons, born in 1946, was a pioneering American singer-songwriter and guitarist who played a significant role in shaping the country rock and alt-country genres. He was a key figure in the development of "Cosmic American Music," a fusion of country, rhythm and blues, soul, folk, and rock styles. Parsons' work with the International Submarine Band, the Byrds, and the Flying Burrito Brothers helped to popularize this unique sound.
Parsons' influence on rock music continued to be felt after his death in 1973. He was posthumously inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2026, recognized for his significant musical influence. Parsons' legacy has endured, with his contributions to country rock and alt-country remaining an important part of rock music's rich history.
1941: Art Garfunkel
On November 5, 1941: Art Garfunkel, American singer-songwriter and guitarist
Art Garfunkel, American singer-songwriter and guitarist This entry marks the documented birthday connected with Art Garfunkel.
Arthur Ira Garfunkel is an American singer, actor and poet who is best known for his partnership with Paul Simon in the folk rock duo Simon & Garfunkel. Readers can follow the cited source for the full biographical and historical context behind this item.
1931: Ike Turner
On November 5, 1931: Ike Turner, American singer-songwriter, guitarist and producer (died 2007)
Ike Turner was born in 1931, marking the beginning of a storied career that would span multiple decades. As a singer-songwriter, guitarist, and producer, Turner was an early pioneer of 1950s rock and roll. His work in the 1960s and 1970s with his wife Tina Turner as the leader of the Ike & Tina Turner Revue cemented his place in music history.
Turner's career milestones include his work as a talent scout and record producer, helping to launch the careers of numerous artists. He was also a key figure in the development of rock and roll, with his music often incorporating elements of blues, R&B, and gospel. Turner's influence can be seen in the work of later artists, and his legacy continues to be celebrated by fans of rock and roll music.