January 1962
Events
- 1962James West co-invents the electret microphone
Bell Labs researcher James West co-invented the electret microphone with Gerhard Sessler, a device now found in 90 percent of all microphones worldwide — in phones, hearing aids, recording equipment, and more. West holds over 250 US and foreign patents and is one of the most consequential inventors in American history.
- 1962Wilt Chamberlain Averages 50.4 Points Per Game for a Season
In the 1961-62 NBA season Chamberlain averaged 50.4 points per game — a record that has never been approached. He also averaged 25.7 rebounds. The season is considered the greatest individual season in NBA history.
- 1962Oscar Robertson Averages a Triple-Double for an Entire Season
Cincinnati Royals guard Oscar Robertson averaged 30.8 points, 12.5 rebounds, and 11.4 assists per game across the full 1961-62 NBA season — the only player ever to average a triple-double for an entire season.
- January 1962Smokey Robinson & the Miracles Release 'You've Really Got a Hold on Me'
One of Smokey Robinson's most emotionally complex compositions, the song reached #1 on the R&B chart and #8 pop, later covered by The Beatles on their debut UK album, demonstrating Motown's transatlantic influence.
- January 1962Sam Cooke Releases 'Twistin' the Night Away'
Cooke's joyful dance record hit #9 on the pop chart and #1 on R&B, demonstrating his mastery of connecting Black musical joy to mainstream commercial success while he simultaneously planned more serious artistic work.