August 17 in History

• 1950

  August 17, 1950:

  The Weavers' rendition of the song titled "Goodnight Irene" becomes number 1 in the United States. The song was initially recorded in 1933 by Huddie 'Lead Belly' Ledbetter.

• 1977

  August 17, 1977:

  President of the United States, Jimmy Carter describes Elvis Presley as “unique and irreplaceable” in a statement issued a day after the death of the actor.

• 1979

  August 17, 1979:

  "Life of Brian", a comedy film written by Monty Python, is released in the United States. It stars actors like John Cleese, Terry Gilliam, and Graham Chapman.

• 1987

  August 17, 1987:

  American entertainer Tom Waits issues his album titled “Franks Wild Years”. "Hang on St. Christopher" and "Innocent When You Dream (Barroom)" are some of the popular songs on the album.

• August 17, 1987:

  “Together Forever” a musical tour by renowned hip hop groups Run-D.M.C., and Beastie Boys comes to an end. The last show was held at the Madison Square Garden.

• 1990

  August 17, 1990:

  William Peter Blatty’s horror film titled "Exorcist 3" is premiered. The movie would make over $40 million from box office.

• 1992

  August 17, 1992:

  American music group, Exodus unveils their 5th studio album entitled “Force of Habit”. In the United States, it was released under the Capitol Records label.

• 1998

  August 17, 1998:

  A star is placed on the iconic Hollywood Walk of Fame to honor Carlos Santana, founder of the band known as ‘Santana’.

• 2008

  August 17, 2008:

  Spain records their first gold medal in a tennis event at the Olympic Games after Rafael Nadal defeats Fernando González from Chile.

• 2011

  August 17, 2011:

  Katy Perry’s single, "Last Friday Night (T.G.I.F.)" tops the Hot 100 chart. She becomes the 2nd singer to have five songs from an album to top the chart.