It was on this day in 1943 that English actor, comedian, and singer-songwriter, Eric Idle was born. Idle is most well-known for his work as a member of the British surreal comedy group, Monty Python. On today's "A Day in the Life", we explore the music of Eric Idle.

Today in 1958, the so-called “Father of the Blues”—W. C. Handy—passed away in New York City at the age of 84. On today's "A Day in the Life" we explore the music and legacy of Handy, from "St. Louis Blues" to "Muscle Shoals Blues" and beyond.

It was on this day in 1942 that the American singer and musician, Aretha Franklin, was born in Memphis, TN. On today's "A Day in the Life", we follow her career from singing gospel songs in her father's church to becoming an internationally acclaimed superstar.

Today in 1436, the Cathedral of Saint Mary of the Flowers was consecrated in Florence, Italy. Did Renaissance composer Guilaume Dufay utilize a series of ratios that mirror the architectural proportions of the cathedral's dome in a motet he wrote for the cathedral's dedication ceremony? Find out on today's "A Classical Day in the Life".

This exemplar of the Baroque languished in obscurity for nearly a century after its composition… And in 1977 it was shot into space! Find out how, exactly, Bach ended up voyaging through space on today's "A Classical Day in the Life".

Today in 1956, Billboard debuted its weekly “Best Selling Popular Albums” chart. On today's "A Day in the Life", we take a look at some fun facts associated with the chart from the The Kingston Trio to the Beatles and even some Paula Abdul.

It was on this day in 1953 that American singer-songwriter Chaka Khan was born in Chicago. On today's "A Day in the Life" we follow the trajectory of Khan's career and explore her association with Stevie Wonder and Prince.

On this day in 2001, the Russian Space Station Mir - or whatever pieces were left of it after it re-entered the atmosphere - fell into the Pacific Ocean. On today's "A Classical Day in the Life" we take a Mir-eyed view of the music and culture of our planet.

It was on this day in 1920 that Fanny Waterman, founder of the Leeds International Pianoforte Competition, was born. Waterman, an accomplished pianist and teacher, was inspired by the many great pianists that performed in her home town of Leeds during her childhood. Learn more on today's "A Classical Day in the Life".

It was on this day in 1956 that the musical "Mr. Wonderful" opened on Broadway starring Sammy Davis Jr. On today's "A Day in the Life" we explore the early career of Sammy Davis Jr.