TRH — Today in Rock History. Every day, rock history, never forgotten.

July 19

1947 - Brian May from Queen is born
Born on July 19, 1947, Brian May became one of rock's most celebrated guitarists as the co-founder and lead guitarist of Queen. Armed with the homemade "Red Special" guitar he built with his father, May developed one of the most recognizable guitar tones in music history, combining orchestral arrangements, soaring melodies, and technically brilliant solos. His songwriting and guitar work helped create timeless classics such as "We Will Rock You", "Tie Your Mother Down", "Hammer to Fall", "Fat Bottomed Girls", "The Show Must Go On", and "I Want It All", while his signature harmonized guitar arrangements became a defining element of Queen's sound. Beyond music, May earned a doctorate in astrophysics, making him one of the rare musicians who can legitimately discuss both black holes and Black Sabbath. More than five decades into his career, he remains one of the most influential and instantly recognizable guitarists in rock history.
1967 - Robb Flynn from Machine Head is born
Born on July 19, 1967, Robb Flynn became the guitarist, vocalist, and driving creative force behind Machine Head after founding the band in 1991. Following his early work with Bay Area thrash pioneers Vio-lence, Flynn helped forge a heavier, groove-driven sound that evolved into one of modern metal's most respected catalogs. Albums like Burn My Eyes, The Blackening, Unto the Locust, and Øf Kingdøm and Crøwn showcased his ability to combine crushing riffs, technical musicianship, and emotionally charged songwriting. Through constant evolution and an uncompromising vision, Flynn has remained one of the most influential figures in modern heavy metal.
1971 - Russell Allen from Symphony X is born
Born on July 19, 1971, Russell Allen became the powerhouse vocalist of Symphony X in 1995, bringing one of the strongest voices in progressive and power metal to albums like The Divine Wings of Tragedy, V: The New Mythology Suite, The Odyssey, and Paradise Lost. Possessing a rare combination of power, grit, and melodic control, Allen helped elevate Symphony X into one of progressive metal's premier bands while also fronting projects such as Adrenaline Mob, Allen/Lande, and Star One. His commanding vocal style has earned him a reputation as one of the finest metal singers of his generation.
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