September 23

 Neal Smith

September 23, 1947

Neal Smith became the drummer for the original Alice Cooper band in 1967 after replacing John Speer. He played on every studio album released by the group from Pretties for You in 1969 through Muscle of Love in 1973. His drumming was a key part of the band's sound during the breakthrough years that produced Love It to Death, Killer, School's Out, and Billion Dollar Babies.

When Alice Cooper began a solo career in 1974, Smith joined former bandmates Michael Bruce and Dennis Dunaway in Billion Dollar Babies, which released the album Battle Axe in 1977. He later recorded and performed with a variety of artists while also pursuing solo projects and songwriting.

Smith reunited with members of the original Alice Cooper band on several occasions and contributed to later Alice Cooper recordings. He remains active in music in 2026.

🎸 🎸 🎸

Bruce Springsteen

September 23, 1949

Bruce Springsteen began building a regional following in New Jersey before signing with Columbia Records and releasing Greetings from Asbury Park, N.J. in 1973. As a singer, songwriter, and guitarist, he developed a style that combined rock, folk, and rhythm and blues influences. His breakthrough came with Born to Run in 1975, followed by Darkness on the Edge of Town in 1978.

Throughout the 1970s, Springsteen worked closely with the E Street Band, whose members became an important part of his recording and touring career. Albums such as The River, Born in the U.S.A., Tunnel of Love, and The Rising expanded his audience in the decades that followed while maintaining his focus on character-driven songwriting.

His career has included extensive touring, recording, and collaborations with other artists. He remains active in music in 2026.

🎸 🎸 🎸

< Yesterday

Tomorrow >