It was on this day in 1986 that the rap group the Beastie Boys debuted their first album, "License to Ill". After playing in punk bands in the burgeoning Downtown Manhattan arts scene of the early 80's members Mike D, Ad Rock and MCA were quickly drawn to this growing style of music coming out of the Bronx called hip hop. On today's "A Day in the Life" we explore the early career of the Beastie Boys and their association with record producer Rick Rubin.

It was on this day in 1943 that a young conductor-in-training named Leonard Bernstein took the stage to conduct the New York Philharmonic for the first time. On today's "A Day in the Life", learn the circumstances that led to Bernstein's unexpected debut and hear it for yourself.

Author Kurt Vonnegut was born on this day in 1922. He once remarked "Music is to me, proof of the existence of God." What genre of music was his favorite? Find out on today's "A Day in the Life."

On this day in 1994, the Second Symphony of American composer Stephen Albert had its world premiere - almost two years after Albert's death in a car accident on Cape Cod, at age 51. On today's "A Classical Day in the Life", we explore the music of Albert and learn how his unfinished Second Symphony came to life following his untimely death.

Children's television program Sesame Street debuted on PBS on this day in 1969. Today's "Day in the Life" considers musical Muppets from the past as well as the pop-song inspiration for the Sesame Street theme song.

Today in 1901, the second piano concerto by Russian pianist, conductor, and composer Sergei Rachmaninoff had its premiere. On today's "A Classical Day in the Life", we explore Rachmaninoff's career and triumph over depression.

The first issue of Rolling Stone was published on this day in 1967 in San Francisco. Today's "A Day in the Life" explores the musical origins of the publication's title and shares fun facts such as who was on that first cover and how much it cost.

It was on this day in 1994 that Sonny Bono was elected to Congress as the representative of California's 44th Congressional District. On today's "A Day in the Life" we search the political landscape around the world for musicians who have been bitten by the bug of politics.

On this day in 1602, Oxford University's Bodleian Library opened. On today's "A Classical Day in the Life" join us as we explore the library's music collection.

On this date in 1943, the International Sweethearts of Rhythm were in the midst of a week-long engagement at the Paradise Theater in Detroit. On today's "A Classical Day in the Life", we explore the history of all-female jazz bands during World War II.