January 2025

Wednesday, January 22

Then & Now!

The ‘Voice’, Steve Perry, was born on January 22, 1949, in Hanford, California. Best known as the lead vocalist of the rock band Journey, Perry's singing voice has garnered acclaim from prominent musical peers and publications.

He joined Journey in 1977 and quickly became the face of the band, contributing to their massive success with hits like "Don't Stop Believin'," "Open Arms," and "Lights." His powerful, emotive voice helped Journey become one of the best-selling bands of all time. Perry's tenure with Journey included a brief hiatus in the late 1980s, but he returned to the band for a reunion tour in the mid-1990s.

The band recorded Trial By Fire in 1996. The album was a huge success, entering the Billboard charts at number three and going platinum before year's end, but its triumph was short-lived.

Before the Trial By Fire tour could begin, Perry suffered a hip injury while hiking in Hawaii and was unable to perform. Perry was diagnosed with a degenerative bone condition and a hip replacement was required, and as he was reluctant to rush into the surgery, Perry wanted to postpone the tour. The remaining members waited until 1998, nearly 17 months after Perry's injury, before making a decision on Journey's future. Growing impatient and realizing the window of opportunity was closing to follow up the success of the Trial By Fire LP with a world tour, Journey members Jonathan Cain and Neal Schon met with Perry. They presented him with an ultimatum: If he did not undergo hip replacement surgery so the tour could proceed upon his recovery, the band would hire a replacement singer. Still hesitant to undergo surgery, and now upset at his bandmates, Perry announced that he was permanently leaving Journey.

Perry provided lead vocals on nine of Journey's albums: Infinity (1978), Evolution (1979), Departure (1980), Dream, After Dream (1980, a Japanese movie soundtrack), Captured (1980, a live album), Escape (1981, which reached number one on the Billboard chart), Frontiers (1983), Raised on Radio (1986), and Trial By Fire (1996). The single "Open Arms" from Escape was their biggest hit single, charting at number two for six weeks on the Billboard Hot 100.

In addition to his work with Journey, Perry had a successful solo career, releasing albums like "Street Talk" (1984) and "For the Love of Strange Medicine" (1994). His solo hits include "Oh Sherrie" and "Foolish Heart." Despite his success, Perry stepped away from the spotlight in the late 1990s to focus on his health and personal life. He made a triumphant return to music in 2018 with the release of his solo album "Traces," which was well-received by fans and critics alike. Perry's enduring legacy in rock music was further solidified when Journey was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2017.

In 2023, Perry made the Billboard top 50 list of best rock singer band lead vocalists of all time, coming in number 30. At the same time, Billboard readers chose Perry as the favorite Rock Singer of All Time, with 67 percent of the overall votes.

Significant Events

Joe Paterno, affectionately known as "JoePa," passed away on January 22, 2012, at the age of 85. The legendary Penn State football coach, who had built a storied career over 46 years, succumbed to lung cancer at Mount Nittany Medical Center in State College, Pennsylvania. Paterno's death came just months after he was fired amid a child sex abuse scandal involving his former assistant Jerry Sandusky. Despite the controversy, Paterno's family remembered him for his unwavering dedication to his family, players, and the university, and his commitment to the motto "Success with Honour."

Paterno's legacy is a complex one, marked by both his incredible achievements on the football field and the scandal that overshadowed his final years. He remains the winningest coach in Division I college football history, with 409 victories, and led the Nittany Lions to two national championships and 37 bowl games. His impact on the sport and the lives of his players is undeniable, with over 250 of his players going on to play in the NFL. Paterno's contributions to college football and his dedication to his players and community continue to be remembered and debated.

Telly Savalas, best known for his iconic role as Lt. Theo Kojak on the 1970s TV series "Kojak," passed away on January 22, 1994, just one day after his 72nd birthday. He succumbed to prostate and bladder cancer at his suite in the Sheraton-Universal Hotel in Universal City, California. Savalas, who was surrounded by his family at the time, had been battling cancer for several years and had recently been released from Huntington Memorial Hospital to spend his final days at the hotel. His deep, resonant voice and memorable catchphrase, "Who loves ya, baby?" left an indelible mark on television history.

Savalas's career spanned over four decades, with notable roles in films such as "Birdman of Alcatraz" (1962), "The Dirty Dozen" (1967), and "On Her Majesty's Secret Service" (1969), where he portrayed the villain Ernst Stavro Blofeld. Beyond acting, he was also a singer, releasing a cover of the song "If," which became a UK number-one single in 19752. His legacy lives on through his contributions to film and television, as well as his impact on popular culture. Savalas was remembered not only for his professional achievements but also for his courage and grace in facing his illness.

On January 22, 1988, Mike Tyson faced off against Larry Holmes in a highly anticipated heavyweight boxing match at the Atlantic City Convention Hall. Tyson, at just 21 years old, was the reigning undisputed heavyweight champion and entered the ring with a fierce reputation. Holmes, a former champion, was attempting a comeback after a brief retirement. From the opening bell, Tyson dominated the fight with his speed, power, and relentless aggression. Holmes, despite his experience and reach advantage, struggled to fend off Tyson's onslaught. In the fourth round, Tyson knocked Holmes down three times, prompting the referee to stop the fight and award Tyson a TKO victory.

This victory solidified Tyson's status as the best heavyweight boxer of his era and showcased his ability to defeat even the most seasoned opponents. Holmes, who had never been knocked out before, praised Tyson's punching power and acknowledged that he was sharper than expected. The fight remains a significant moment in boxing history, highlighting Tyson's dominance and Holmes' resilience. Tyson's win over Holmes is often remembered as one of his most impressive performances, further cementing his legacy as one of the greatest heavyweight champions of all time.

On January 22, 1984, the Los Angeles Raiders delivered a dominant performance to defeat the Washington Redskins, 38-9, in Super Bowl XVIII. The Raiders' victory was highlighted by their exceptional defense, which sacked Redskins quarterback Joe Theismann six times and intercepted him twice. On offense, Raiders running back Marcus Allen was the standout player, rushing for a then-record 191 yards and two touchdowns, including a 74-yard run that remains one of the most memorable plays in Super Bowl history. Allen's performance earned him the Super Bowl MVP award, and the Raiders' defense effectively shut down the Redskins' offense, holding them to just one touchdown and a missed extra point.

The Raiders' win not only secured their second Super Bowl title but also marked a significant moment in NFL history, as they became the first AFC team to score over 30 points in a Super Bowl. The game was played at Tampa Stadium in Tampa, Florida, and was watched by an estimated 77.62 million viewers. The Raiders' comprehensive victory showcased their depth and resilience, and their ability to outperform the defending champions solidified their place among the NFL's elite teams. The game's outcome also underscored the importance of a strong defense and a balanced offensive attack in achieving Super Bowl success.

"Airwolf," the action-adventure television series, premiered on January 22, 1984, on the CBS network. Created by Donald P. Bellisario, the show follows the adventures of Stringfellow Hawke, played by Jan-Michael Vincent, a reclusive and highly skilled helicopter pilot who is recruited by a secret government agency to retrieve and operate the advanced helicopter known as Airwolf. The helicopter, equipped with cutting-edge technology and weaponry, becomes the centerpiece of thrilling missions that blend espionage, combat, and high-stakes drama. The series also stars Ernest Borgnine as Dominic Santini, Hawke's loyal friend and co-pilot, and Alex Cord as Michael Archangel, the enigmatic government agent who oversees their missions.

"Airwolf" quickly gained a devoted fan base due to its captivating storylines, impressive aerial stunts, and the dynamic chemistry between its lead characters. The sleek and futuristic design of the titular helicopter became an iconic symbol of the series, contributing to its lasting appeal. Despite facing stiff competition from other popular shows of the time, "Airwolf" managed to carve out its own niche and left an indelible mark on 1980s television.

"Mama's Family," an American sitcom, premiered on January 22, 1983, on NBC. The show is a spin-off from the popular sketch series "The Carol Burnett Show" and centres around the hilarious escapades of the Harper family, led by the sharp-tongued matriarch, Thelma Harper, also known as "Mama," portrayed by Vicki Lawrence. The series follows Mama's interactions with her quirky family members, including her nervous sister Fran (Rue McClanahan), her clumsy son Vinton (Ken Berry), and her high-spirited daughter-in-law Naomi (Dorothy Lyman). The show's humour derives from the often chaotic and comical situations that arise from Mama's attempts to keep her family in line.

Despite initial struggles with ratings and a brief cancellation after its second season, "Mama's Family" found new life in first-run syndication from 1986 to 1990. The show's relatable humour and endearing characters struck a chord with audiences, making it a beloved staple of 1980s and early 1990s television. The character of Thelma Harper, with her iconic floral dress and sensible shoes, became a cultural touchstone, and Vicki Lawrence's portrayal earned her a devoted fan base.

Billboard Number Ones

1980 Rock With You - Michael Jackson
1981 (Just Like) Starting Over - John Lennon

1982 Physical - Olivia Newton-John
1983 Down Under - Men at Work

1984 Owner of a Lonely Heart- Yes
1985 Like a Virgin - Madonna

1986 That's What Friends Are For - Dionne Warwick, Elton John, Gladys Knight and Stevie Wonder

1987 Shake You Down - Gregory Abbott
1988 Got My Mind Set On You - George Harrison

1989 Two Hearts - Phil Collins

Top Grossing Movies

1980 Kramer vs. Kramer  

1981 9 to 5          

1982 Absence of Malice    

1983 Tootsie   

1984 Terms of Endearment    

1985 Beverly Hills Cop   

1986 Iron Eagle 

1987 Critical Condition  

1988 Good Morning, Vietnam        

1989 Rain Man 

Today's Your Birthday!

Michael Hutchence, born on January 22, 1960, in Sydney, Australia, was the charismatic lead singer of the rock band INXS. Hutchence co-founded the band in 1977, and his powerful voice and dynamic stage presence helped propel INXS to international fame. The band's hits, such as "Need You Tonight" and "New Sensation," solidified their place in rock music history. Hutchence's career was not limited to music; he also appeared in films like "Dogs in Space" (1986) and "Frankenstein Unbound" (1990). His personal life was often in the spotlight, marked by high-profile relationships with models and actresses, including Helena Christensen and Paula Yates, with whom he had a daughter, Tiger Lily.

Tragically, Hutchence's life was cut short when he died by suicide on November 22, 1997, at the age of 37. His death shocked fans around the world and left a void in the music industry. In the years since his passing, Hutchence's legacy has been honoured through various tributes, including documentaries and biographies that explore his impact on music and his complex personal life. Despite his untimely death, Hutchence's contributions to rock music and his enduring influence continue to be celebrated by fans and fellow musicians alike.

Mike Bossy, born on January 22, 1957, in Montreal, Quebec, Canada, was one of the most prolific goal-scorers in NHL history. He spent his entire 10-season career with the New York Islanders, from 1977 to 1987, and was a key player in their dynasty of the early 1980s. Bossy won the Calder Memorial Trophy as the NHL's top rookie in 1978, setting a then-record with 53 goals in his first season. He led the league in goals twice and was known for his incredible consistency, scoring 50 or more goals in nine consecutive seasons, a feat matched only by Wayne Gretzky and Alexander Ovechkin.

Bossy's contributions to the Islanders' four consecutive Stanley Cup championships (1980-1983) were monumental, and he was awarded the Conn Smythe Trophy as the playoff MVP in 1982. His career was cut short by injuries, but he left an indelible mark on the sport, finishing with 573 goals and 1,126 points in 752 games. Bossy was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1991 and was named one of the 100 Greatest NHL Players in history in 2017.

In the fall of 2021, Bossy announced that he had been diagnosed with lung cancer. He died in the spring of 2022 at the age of 65. A week after Bossy's death, Guy Lafleur also succumbed to lung cancer (he and Bossy smoked heavily during their playing days); both Bossy and Lafleur were Quebec natives whose contemporary careers as star right-wingers were often compared.

Tully Blanchard, born on January 22, 1954, in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, is a retired professional wrestler best known for his time with Jim Crockett Promotions and the World Wrestling Federation (WWF) in the mid-to-late 1980s. He was a key member of the legendary wrestling stable, The Four Horsemen, alongside Ric Flair, Arn Anderson, and Ole Anderson. Blanchard's technical prowess and cunning in-ring tactics made him a formidable opponent and a fan favorite. Over his career, he held numerous titles, including the NWA World Television Championship, NWA World Tag Team Championship, and WWF World Tag Team Championship. Blanchard was inducted into both the NWA and WWE Hall of Fame.

Blanchard's career took a turn when he embraced born-again Christianity, which led him to retire from wrestling in 2005. After retiring, he focused on his faith and became involved in ministry work. His daughter, Tessa Blanchard, has followed in his footsteps and become a professional wrestler herself, signed to Total Nonstop Action Wrestling (TNA).

Steve Perry, born on January 22, 1949, in Hanford, California, is an American singer and songwriter best known as the lead vocalist of the rock band Journey. Perry joined Journey in 1977 and quickly became the face of the band, contributing to their massive success with hits like "Don't Stop Believin'," "Open Arms," and "Lights." His powerful, emotive voice earned him the nickname "The Voice" and helped Journey become one of the best-selling bands of all time. Perry's tenure with Journey included a brief hiatus in the late 1980s, but he returned to the band for a reunion tour in the mid-1990s.

In addition to his work with Journey, Perry had a successful solo career, releasing albums like "Street Talk" (1984) and "For the Love of Strange Medicine" (1994). His solo hits include "Oh Sherrie" and "Foolish Heart." Despite his success, Perry stepped away from the spotlight in the late 1990s to focus on his health and personal life. He made a triumphant return to music in 2018 with the release of his solo album "Traces," which was well-received by fans and critics alike. Perry's enduring legacy in rock music was further solidified when Journey was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2017.

Bill Bixby, born Wilfred Bailey Everett Bixby III on January 22, 1934, in San Francisco, California, was a versatile American actor, director, and producer. He is best known for his role as Dr. David Banner in the television series "The Incredible Hulk" (1977-1982), where he portrayed the scientist who transforms into the Hulk after exposure to gamma radiation. Bixby's career spanned over three decades, and he appeared in numerous TV shows and films, including "My Favorite Martian," "The Courtship of Eddie's Father," and "The Magician." His ability to seamlessly transition between comedic and dramatic roles made him a beloved figure in Hollywood.

Bixby's contributions to television were recognized with several awards, including Emmy nominations for his work on "The Courtship of Eddie's Father" and "Rich Man, Poor Man." He also directed episodes of various TV series, showcasing his talent behind the camera. Sadly, Bixby passed away in 1993 at the age of 59 due to complications from prostate cancer. His legacy lives on through his memorable performances and the impact he had on the entertainment industry. Bixby's work continues to be celebrated by fans and industry professionals alike.

Graham Kerr, born on January 22, 1934, in London, England, is a renowned British-born chef and television personality best known for his popular cooking show "The Galloping Gourmet," which aired from 1969 to 1971. The show was famous for Kerr's charismatic style, including his signature move of leaping over chairs with a glass of wine in hand. Before his television career, Kerr trained in kitchens across Europe and served as the chief catering adviser for the Royal New Zealand Air Force. His engaging personality and innovative recipes made him a beloved figure in the culinary world, and he won two Primetime Emmy nominations for his work on the show.

After a serious car accident in 1971, Kerr and his wife Treena decided to step away from television to focus on their health and family. During this time, Kerr rediscovered his Christian faith and began advocating for healthier eating habits. He returned to television in the 1990s with a new show, "Graham Kerr's Kitchen," which emphasized nutritious and balanced meals. Kerr continues to be active in the culinary community, hosting prayer breakfasts and speaking at events about his journey and transformation. His legacy as "The Galloping Gourmet" lives on, but his message has evolved to promote a healthier, more mindful approach to food and life.