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Live And Legendary – 12 Live Performances That Helped Create Rock Legends

By Terrie Carr

TC here and this week the DHA Coffee Break theme focuses on “Legendary LIVE” performances.
Basically live performance tracks that are unforgettable from rock’s performers that were destined to become legends because of their ability to captivate an audience.
I have been captivated by most if these performers (Janis and Zeppelin were the only artists on this list I unfortunately did not see) and their ability to transport me somewhere else was magic……

  • Peter Frampton- Show Me The Way

    I love everything about Frampton Comes Alive- The best selling live rock album of all time- The 70’s at its finest!

  • Queen- Radio Ga Ga

    From Live Aid (1985) – One of the greatest live performances in musical history. Freddie showing everyone how it’s done!

  • Led Zeppelin- How Many More Times

    A young Zep- all between the ages of 20 and 25. This performance is so raw and mind blowing and showcases the talents of each band member. WOW!

  • Van Halen- Unchained

    Nothing matched the energy, raw sex appeal and excitement when Van Halen played in their prime. THIS is rock and roll! The soundtrack of my life!

  • Black Sabbath- N.I.B

    Ozzy’s vocals live in the early days were untouchable. Tony’s guitar sound and Bill and Geezer together? Insane performance from 1970!

  • Janis Joplin- Ball & Chain

    Janis at Monterey Pop was surely an experience. Her entire being is in this performance. Check out Cass Elliot in the audience if you want to see a pure reaction.

  • AC/DC- Highway To Hell

    LOVE this performance from 1979 just before we lost Bon. EFFORTLESS and SO rock and roll!

  • Lynyrd Skynyrd- Freebird

    The slow build and epic jam at the end are mind blowing. “What Song Is It You Wanna Hear”? Legendary for sure….

  • Iron Maiden- The Trooper

    The energy at a Maiden show is killer! They are metal magic and the crowd is always in tandem with the band…every step….ever note…every move. So epic! There are so many performances of The Trooper that kill it, but I love the one from 1985 in particular- something about Maiden in the 80’s is the best!

  • Kiss- Detroit Rock City

    Kiss – Circa 1976- So much power and energy- WHAT A SHOW!

  • Bruce Springsteen & The E Street Band- Jungleland

    Bruce and the band in 1980 were a rock and roll machine. Performances over three hours every night.

    It was incredible.

    Jungleland during The River Tour was an experience. Rest In peace Clarence…..

  • Rush- The Spirit Of Radio

    Being the Rush geek that I am I had to include the worlds greatest power trio. This footage from the Capitol Theater in Passaic is beyond belief and you can tell that this band would be headlining arenas next! Look how young they are!

There are so many amazing live performances that changed history.
These are just a few of the life changers for me when I was a kid who loved rock rebellion and got lost in the music.
As always, thanks for reading!
What are a few of yours? Hit me up at TC@WDHAFM.COM

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