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First LP record player
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Fender releases a solid body electric guitar known as the Telecaster.
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First Jukebox to play 45s is introduced.
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The song "Rocket 88" which is thought to be the first rock song is recorded by Jackie Brenston and his Delta Cats.
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Sixty Minute Man by Billy Ward goes to #1 R&B
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The Moondog Show debuts on Cleveland radio.
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Gibson introduces Les Paul electric guitar.
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Sun Records is known to have helped famous singers such as Elvis Presley and Johnny Cash launch their careers.
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The Moondog Coronation Ball (organized by Alan Freed) is held in the Cleveland Arena in Cleveland.
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Crazy Man Crazy by Bill Haley is the first R&R song to hit the pop charts.
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The Weavers disband after their testimony in front of the House of Commitee on Unamerican Activity.
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Doo Wop bands create mainstream hits.
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Big Joe Turner hits #1 on R&B charts with Rock Rattle and Roll.
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Elvis records 1st hit "That's all right in Memphis.
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The Crew Cuts hit #1 on the pop charts with Sh-Boom.
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DJ Alan Freed leaves Cleveland for wins radio in New York. Freed's new program "Rock and Roll Party" is an immediate hit, demonstrating rock's growing appeal
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Many R&B artists are attacked for suggestive lyrics.
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Ray Charles records I got a woman ( which reached #1 on R&B charts) which is considered first soul song.
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The Chordetts create #1 hit "Mr. Sandman".