Today in 2003, 50 million people were affected by a massive failure of the electrical grid. What type of music is best to listen to during a blackout? And does such an event cause a rise in the birth rate? Find out on today's "A Day in the Life."

It is the 150th birthday of soprano Emma Eames, one of the first opera singers to have her voice captured by recording technology. Hear vintage audio of Eames in her signature roles as well as what she thought of making such recordings on today's "A Day in the Life."

English poet William Blake passed away on this day in 1827. What was he working on at the time of his death? And what was his influence on the music of Monty Python and U2? Find out on today's "A Day in the Life."

Today in 1973, DJ Kool Herc threw the first ever hip-hop party. The venue was his sister's high-rise apartment in the Bronx. What was the price of admission, what music did he play, and what innovative techniques did he introduce? Find out on today's "A Day in the Life."

Isaac Hayes passed away today in 2008. Today's DITL looks at the wide-reaching impact of his career as a songwriter, performer, producer, and voice-actor. From "Shaft" to "Soul Man" to Public Enemy and South Park, Hayes was one bad mother--shut your mouth!

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Why did Ryan Raul Bañagale once consider "Philosophy" by Ben Folds Five to be the greatest song ever? He explains all in this "Critical Karaoke" performance outtake from CK Episode 4.

Virtuoso of the "mouth organ," Larry Adler passed away today in 2001. A master of both popular and classical repertoire, he remains largely unknown. Find out why on today's "A Day in the Life."

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Yo! MTV Raps debuted on this day in 1988 in the United States, quickly spreading the music and culture of hip hop to new audiences across the country. Who was on the first episode? Find out on today's "A Day in the Life."

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Today in 1957, American Bandstand had its national broadcast debut. Find out how Dick Clark's dance-oriented program spawned the phrase: "It's got a good beat and you can dance to it" on today's "A Day in the Life."

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Today in 1944, the Gestapo discovered the family of Otto Frank in Amsterdam, including his daughter Anne. Find out how The Diary of Anne Frank connects to the band Neutral Milk Hotel and the comedian Stephen Colbert on today's "A Day in the Life."

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