Here are four things every rocker should know on this date in Rock & Roll History:

1945: Chris Dreja, a guitarist who was a founding member of The Yardbirds, was born. Oddly, when I think of Yardbirds’ guitarists, Chris is not the first name that comes to mind. Can you say Eric, Jeff & Jimmy?

1965: The Velvet Underground played their first gig. It was a high school dance in New Jersey. I’d imagine the school’s parents were delighted. I know I’d be thrilled if Lou Reed showed up at my kids’ school. I’d be in the front freakin’ row.

1971: Led Zeppelin’s fourth tour of England kicked off just a few days after they released their fourth album, which I think most rockers would consider a Desert Island Disc. I know I certainly do.

1986: Pink Floyd announced they would keep using the name Pink Floyd, even though Roger Waters would no longer be a member of the band. Note to the surviving members, and you know who you are: kiss and make up and get your asses out on tour before it’s too late. Who do you think you are, The Kinks?