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

August 4

1959 - Robbin Crosby from Ratt is born
Born on August 4, 1959, Robbin Crosby became the rhythm guitarist and principal songwriter of Ratt, helping define the sound of the Sunset Strip explosion during the 1980s. Nicknamed "King" for his towering 6-foot-5 frame, Crosby's massive rhythm guitar work provided the foundation for Warren DeMartini's lead playing, creating one of hard rock's most formidable guitar duos. His songwriting helped produce classics such as "Round and Round", "Lay It Down", "Wanted Man", "You're in Love", and "Back for More", while albums like Out of the Cellar, Invasion of Your Privacy, and Dancing Undercover established Ratt as one of the premier hard rock bands of the decade. Though his later years were marked by personal struggles, Crosby's contributions remain an essential part of the band's enduring legacy.
1969 - Max Cavalera from Sepultura is born
Born on August 4, 1969, Max Cavalera became one of the most influential figures in extreme metal after co-founding Sepultura in 1984. His ferocious vocals, crushing riffs, and fearless incorporation of Brazilian rhythms helped transform the band from underground thrash hopefuls into one of the world's most respected metal acts. Albums such as Beneath the Remains, Arise, Chaos A.D., and Roots produced classics like "Refuse/Resist", "Territory", "Roots Bloody Roots", and "Dead Embryonic Cells". After leaving Sepultura in 1996, Cavalera founded Soulfly, later reunited with his brother Igor in Cavalera Conspiracy, and continued pushing the boundaries of heavy music. His influence on groove metal, thrash, and extreme metal remains immense.
1975 - Ritchie Blackmore's Rainbow releases Ritchie Blackmore's Rainbow
On August 4, 1975, Rainbow released their debut album, Ritchie Blackmore's Rainbow, marking guitar legend Ritchie Blackmore's first project after departing Deep Purple. Joined by the powerhouse vocals of Ronnie James Dio, Blackmore created a band that blended hard rock with fantasy-inspired lyrics, classical influences, and virtuosic musicianship. Featuring standout tracks like "Man on the Silver Mountain", "Catch the Rainbow", "The Temple of the King", and "Sixteenth Century Greensleeves", the album introduced a sound that would become a cornerstone of melodic hard rock and heavy metal. The chemistry between Blackmore and Dio proved extraordinary, laying the foundation for one of rock's most celebrated partnerships. Produced by Martin Birch and Ritchie Blackmore.
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