Today in 1968 Paul McCartney recorded “Blackbird.” What inspired him to do so? A combination of historical music and contemporary social issues? Find out on today’s “A Day in the Life.”

The opera Tristan und Isolde premiered in Munich on this day in 1865. Learn about the power of an important chord composed Richard Wagner and why some say it was the beginning of the end for traditional harmony.

Today in 1970 Bruce Springsteen began to record his first album: Greetings from Asbury Park, N.J. Find out what songs he recorded, who he recorded, and the critical response to this initial outting today on “A Day in the Life.”

The comedic film Trading Places premiered on this day in 1983. What music accompanied stars Eddie Murphy and Dan Aykroyd through Prince and the Pauper experiences? Find out today on “A Day in the Life.”

1976 Ian Matthias Bavitz—better known as Aesop Rock—was born in Syosset, New York. Where did he get the name? How did he become a new voice for his generation of hip hop artists? Find out on today’s “A Day in the Life.”

Serge Koussevitzky, former music director for the Boston Symphony Orchestra, died on this day in 1951. How did Koussevitzky inspire a young Leonard Bernstein? Find out on today’s “A Day in the Life.”

On this day in 1949 Pete Seeger performed "If I had a Hammer" for the first time in New York City. Find out the circumstances of its premiere and its eventual cover by Peter, Paul, and Mary on today's "A Day in the Life."

Temptations vocalist David Ruffin passed away on this day in 1991. Find out how he came to sing the lead vocal part on “My Girl,” the first of five consecutive hits for group on today’s “A Day in the Life.”

One of the best selling female artists of the 1990s was born on this day in 1974: Alanis Morissette. Jagged Little Pills, Irony, and Alt-Rock Stardom all on today's "A Day in the Life."

Better known as "Scary Spice" of The Spice Girls, Melanie Janie Brown was born in Yorkshire, England on this day in 1975. Find out how she got her name and what she's been up to on today's "A Day in the Life."