Britney’s breakdown (and comeback!); Metallica’s Death Magnetic; the long-awaited arrival of Chinese Democracy; the death of drummer Mitch Mitchell; the crowning of a new American Idol; the crowning of a new president — the year’s biggest stories were all documented right here in Rock Daily. For a month-by-month guide of 2008’s most important album releases, deaths, festivals and more, check out our annual wrap-up here:

• 2008’s Biggest Stories