Legendary Rock Tours: Opening Acts That Blazed the Stage
Introduction
While headliners like Bob Dylan, KISS, and The Who steal the show, opening acts often stand as the unsung heroes of rock tours. Their performances can set the tone and captivate audiences, sometimes even stealing the spotlight from the main acts. From legendary rock bands to lesser-known but talented performers, these opening acts have left a lasting impression on music fans around the world.
Van Halen Opening for KISS
The sibling-led Van Halen is often seen as KISS's rival: both bands have powerful guitar riffs, dynamic stage performances, and an undeniable electrifying energy. On their first tour, KISS famously made a bold statement by stating they would “eat them up and spit them out.” However, Van Halen proved KISS wrong, killing them on stage and becoming a formidable player in the rock scene. Their performance together at the Van Halen vs. KISS tour is one of the talked-about collaborations in rock history.
Def Leppard and Journey: A Clash of Titans
Def Leppard's performance as the opening act for Journey is a noteworthy event in rock history. Journey is known for hits like "Don't Stop Believin'" and "Open Arms," while Def Leppard's "Pour Some Sugar on Me" and " sunday in the Park with George" have carved their own unique place in metal history. On these tours, the crowd was awed by both bands but ultimately, Def Leppard left a lasting impact, demonstrating that not every opening act is there to just do the minimum.
Legendary Breakout Acts
From bad company and Lynard Skynard opening for Edgar Winter's Grin to Tracy Chapman's backing act, Johnny Clegg and Savuka, the opening acts in these tours played a significant role in the success and legacy of their respective bands. Band members like Geezer Butler and Gene Simmons often remember these performances with a mix of amusement and respect. In the case of Lynard Skynard and bad company, these bands provided a platform for Edgar Winter to showcase his raw talent, which went on to inform his later work.
The Who and Herman's Hermits
The Who, a band known for their explosive performances and unique fusion of rock, punk, and electronic music, opened for Herman's Hermits (a British pop band with a following in the early 1960s) in the late 1960s. The stark contrast between the two acts created a memorable and intriguing pre-show experience, demonstrating how different acts can provide unique pre-show atmospheres that further the narrative of the tour.
Van Halen's Memorial Day Performance
The 1985 Monsters of Rock tour's ninth act, Van Halen, gave a memorable performance that will forever be etched in rock lore. The fans witnessed a daring act: Van Halen skydiving into the arena, walking through the crowd, and then Eddie Van Halen launching into an electrifying performance of "Eruption" as they entered the stage. This performance further cemented Van Halen's place as one of the boldest and riskiest bands in rock history, leaving audiences in awe.
David Bowie's Lesser-Known Role
In what could be considered one of the more unusual instances in music history, David Bowie took on the role of a junior opening act. As the pre-show act for T-REX, Bowie had to compete with an mime added to the act. While some may disagree, this shows that even iconic artists can find themselves in various roles on the rock circuit. Nonetheless, his presence added an element of intrigue and unpredictability that fans appreciated.
Conclusion
While opening acts often go unnoticed, they play a crucial role in the development and legacy of the bands they support. From delivering dynamic and unforgettable performances to setting the tone for the main acts, these unsung heroes of rock tours are essential components of a memorable music experience. So, the next time you hear a band name on a tour bill, remember that each opening act brings its unique energy and constitutes a significant part of the rock tour experience.