This Day in Hip Hop & R&B History: June 26
June 26 is a date that has left its mark on the hip-hop and R&B scene. Some prominent figures who commemorate their birthdays on this day include Wicked star Ariana Grande, who has broken 20…
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – NOVEMBER 22: In this image released on November 22, Megan Thee Stallion performs onstage for the 2020 American Music Awards at Microsoft Theater on November 22, 2020 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images for dcp)
June 26 is a date that has left its mark on the hip-hop and R&B scene. Some prominent figures who commemorate their birthdays on this day include Wicked star Ariana Grande, who has broken 20 Guinness World Records and released many chart-topping albums. Other icons born on June 26 are R&B singer Rosie Gaines, American rapper Fat Trel, and Billy Davis Jr., who kicked off his career in the 1950s. Here are some other notable events and milestones from June 26.
Breakthrough Hits and Milestones
June 26 has seen some talented artists in the hip-hop and R&B industry share their work with the world:
- 2013: Hip-hop duo Run the Jewels released their self-titled debut album. It was meant to be a one-off project, but it peaked at No. 21 on the Top Rap Albums chart in the U.S., motivating them to continue working together.
- 2015: The Internet dropped their third studio album, Ego Death, which included tracks “Under Control,” “Get Away,” and “Special Affair.” The album was a GRAMMY Award contender in 2016.
- 2020: R&B singer Brian McKnight released Exodus, his 16th studio album. The collection peaked at No. 86 on the Billboard Top Current Album Sales chart, with its love-themed tracks adding to its emotional depth and captivating countless listeners.
- 2020: Megan Thee Stallion, one of America's most popular female hip-hop stars, released “Girl in the Hood.” The track was well received, owing to the singer's impressive vocal performance, empowering lyrics, and trap beat.
Cultural Milestones
Several events transpired on June 26 that impacted R&B and hip-hop culture by inspiring and making way for emerging talent:
- 1970: Record producer Irv Gotti was born in Queens, New York City. Prior to his death in February 2025, the hip-hop mogul had discovered and signed many artists, including R&B singer Ashanti.
- 1977: Elvis Presley, who included R&B hits on his albums, graced the stage for the last time at the Market Square Arena in Indiana, Indianapolis. Sadly, he died seven weeks later in August 1977 when he was 42. Before that final performance, fans had waited hours in freezing weather to see him.
- 2011: R. Kelly performed at the Birmingham Jefferson Convention Complex in Birmingham, Alabama, while on his Love Letter tour. The R&B legend was slapped with a 30-year prison sentence a decade later after he was found guilty of trafficking and racketeering.
Industry Changes and Challenges
June 26 has been a day when things have gone sideways in hip hop and R&B, costing the industry some talented artists and landing others in trouble. Some notable events include:
- 2015: The late DMX was arrested for robbery and unpaid child support. This happened right before his anticipated performance at Radio City Music Hall in New York City. He was later sentenced to six months in jail.
- 2020: Huey, who collaborated with renowned artists, such as Bow Wow and T-Pain, died in Kinloch, Missouri, after having been shot the day before. The 32-year-old was known for his hit single “Pop, Lock & Drop It,” which reached No. 6 on the Billboard Hot 100.
With the album releases, arrests, deaths, and incredible performances that have happened on June 26, this date is unforgettable in hip-hop and R&B history.
