When was rock star first used?

The term "rock star" was first popularized in the late 1960s and early 1970s, coinciding with the rise of rock music and the emergence of iconic musicians. While the exact first use of the phrase is difficult to pinpoint, it became widely recognized in the context of artists like Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin, and later, bands like Led Zeppelin and The Rolling Stones. The term encapsulated the fame, charisma, and lifestyle associated with leading figures in the rock music scene.