2026-10-12 · On this day
October 12 in Rock History: Ricky Wilson (guitarist), Gene Vincent, Jordan Pundik and 2 more
5 rock stories from October 12: concerts, releases, turning points and the people behind them.
1985: Ricky Wilson (guitarist)
On October 12, 1985: Ricky Wilson, American singer-songwriter and guitarist (born 1953)
Ricky Wilson, American singer-songwriter and guitarist (born 1953) This entry marks the documented death anniversary connected with Ricky Wilson (guitarist).
Ricky Helton Wilson was an American musician best known as the original guitarist and founding member of rock band the B-52s. Born in Athens, Georgia, Wilson was the brother of fellow member Cindy Wilson. The B-52s were founded in 1976, when Ricky, Cindy, Kate Pierson, Keith Strickland and Fred Schn Readers can follow the cited source for the full biographical and historical context behind this item.
1971: Gene Vincent
On October 12, 1971: Gene Vincent, American musician (born 1935)
Gene Vincent was a pioneering American rock-and-roll musician who played a significant role in shaping the rockabilly style. His 1956 hit single "Be-Bop-a-Lula" with his backing band the Blue Caps is widely regarded as an early example of rockabilly, a genre that blended elements of country, blues, and rhythm and blues.
Gene Vincent's chart career was relatively short-lived, with only three top-40 hits in the US in 1956 and 1957. However, he enjoyed more success in the UK, where he had eight top-40 hits between 1956 and 1961.
1979: Jordan Pundik
On October 12, 1979: Jordan Pundik, American singer-songwriter and guitarist
Jordan Pundik, the lead vocalist and guitarist of the Floridian rock band New Found Glory, was born in 1979. As a founding member of the band, Pundik has been instrumental in shaping the group's sound and style, which blends elements of pop-punk and melodic hardcore.
Pundik's career with New Found Glory has been marked by numerous notable releases, including several albums and singles that have received critical acclaim. The band's music has been featured on various television shows and films, and they have toured extensively throughout their career, sharing the stage with other notable rock and punk bands.
1956: David Vanian
On October 12, 1956: David Vanian, English singer-songwriter
David Vanian, the lead singer of the influential punk rock band the Damned, was born in 1956. As a founding member of the band, he has been the only constant presence throughout their various lineup changes since their formation in London in 1976.
The Damned, with Vanian at the helm, achieved several notable milestones in the punk rock scene. They were the first British punk band to release a single, an album, and have a record hit the UK charts, as well as the first to tour the United States. Vanian's distinctive baritone voice, dark lyrics, and iconic vampire-themed costumes have had a lasting impact on the goth subculture, influencing many artists to come.
1948: Rick Parfitt
On October 12, 1948: Rick Parfitt, English singer-songwriter and guitarist (died 2016)
Rick Parfitt was born in 1948, marking the beginning of a storied career in music. As a rhythm guitarist, singer, and songwriter, he was a key member of the iconic rock band Status Quo. Parfitt's contributions to the band's sound and style helped shape their unique identity.
Parfitt's tenure with Status Quo spanned over four decades, with the band releasing numerous albums and singles throughout the 1970s and 1980s. He was a key figure in the band's live performances, known for his energetic stage presence and charismatic vocals. Parfitt's guitar work and songwriting skills were instrumental in creating some of Status Quo's most enduring hits, cementing his legacy as a rock music icon.