Introduction:

Between 1970 and 1990, major rock concerts featured numerous opening acts that were virtually unknown at the time. Some of these bands went on to achieve immense success, their first performances foreshadowing their future stardom. This article explores a few such bands, focusing on their early performances and the indicators that pointed to their potential greatness.

Van Halen: A Local Favorite

Van Halen, a band renowned for their innovative use of electric guitars, opened for various other acts in the 1970s. Their shows, whether at small or large venues, served as indicators that they were destined for great things. Members of the band, including the charismatic Sammy Hagar and the technical wizard Eddie Van Halen, had a reputation for the concerts they played.

One notable event was a concert held in Pasadena during the mid-1970s. A teenager hosted a private show at his parents' house, and the police had to intervene due to the crowd's enthusiasm. This indicates the immense popularity and hype that surrounded Van Halen from the start of their careers. Attendees could sense the potential of the band even during these intimate, local events.

The Epiphany at the Academy of Music: Yes

On November 25, 1971, a concert featuring Procol Harum, King Crimson, and an opening band that profoundly impacted the future of rock music took place at The Academy of Music in New York City. While the headliners, Procol Harum and King Crimson, were known to the audience, it was the opening act, Yes, that left an indelible mark on their collective memories.

The concert began with an opening band that utilized a seated stage, a maneuver that was somewhat unusual at the time. As the band started to play, the audience was immediately captivated. From the opening notes, it became clear that something different and remarkable was happening. The technical level of musicianship was unparalleled, and the vocal harmonies were impeccable. The live performances of Yes were nothing short of stunning.

After the initial wave of applause, the theater erupted in an ovation rarely seen for an opening act. In fact, the theater remained buzzing long after King Crimson took the stage and played a shortened set. This event highlighted the monstrous signing power of an unknown band, as the entire crowd was raving about the opening act.

Even Procol Harum, the headlining band, received comparisons to their opening act. And three months later, the band returned to perform as the headliner at the same venue, where their popularity had only grown. This story serves as a prime example of how an opening act can be a significant indicator of a band’s future potential.

Lesser-Known Opening Acts: Signs of Unveiled Success

The stories of Van Halen and Yes are not isolated cases. Many other bands that opened for major acts in the 1970s and 1980s also went on to achieve great success later in their careers. These openings were often the first steps in a path that eventually led to fame and acclaim. For example, bands like Rush, Queen, and Iron Butterfly all had modest beginnings as opening acts before becoming household names.

Signs of an opening act's future success often include strong crowd engagement, collaborative dynamics between the band members, and unique musical style. When you combine these elements with a memorable live performance, it is often a recipe for future stardom. It is fascinating to reflect on how performances that we may have forgotten now lay the foundation for legendary careers.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the world of rock music is filled with countless stories of lesser-known bands that opened for major acts. These opening acts had the potential to indicate their future success, and in some cases, they went on to become huge stars. By studying these performances, we can better understand the early signs of success and appreciate the impact of these forgotten heroes. The lessons learned from these bands serve as a reminder of the often-untold stories that shape the rock music industry.