Archive for rock history

On This Day In METAL History – January 5th…

Posted in classic rock, Heavy Metal, Metal, music news, rock music, rock music news with tags , , , , on January 5, 2015 by Metal Odyssey

Led Zeppelin - Alice Cooper - Whiskey a go go - 1969 promo flyer - #69RP

On January 5th, 1969 – During Led Zeppelin’s first North American tour, they played the last of a four night stand at the Whisky A Go-Go in Los Angeles, California. Alice Cooper (band) was the supporting act. At this point in time, Led Zeppelin were billed as: Led Zeppelin Featuring Jimmy Page, Formerly Of The Yardbirds. Whoa!

Sex Pistols - First US Tour - promo flyer - Never Mind The Bollocks

On this day in 1978 – The Sex Pistols made their North American concert debut at the Great Southeast Music Hall, in Atlanta, Georgia. There was an estimated attendance of 500 people.

Iron Maiden - Bring Your Daughter To The Slaughter - special edition - promo cover pic - #1991BDSH

On January 5th, 1991 – The great IRON MAIDEN reached #1 on the UK singles chart with: Bring Your Daughter To The Slaughter. This song is featured on IRON MAIDEN’s astounding 1991 studio album: No Prayer For The Dying.

____________________________

MetalOdyssey

LONG LIVE METAL.

LONG LIVE THE ROOTS & FAMILY TREE OF METAL.

Stone.

On This Day In METAL History – January 4th…

Posted in classic rock, Hard Rock, Metal, music news, rock music, rock music news with tags , , , , on January 4, 2015 by Metal Odyssey

Judas Priest - Defenders Of The Faith - promo album cover pic - #1984RHGT

1984 – The thunderous Judas Priest released their ninth studio album: Defenders Of The Faith. Along with the timeless Metal ahem that is the title track, this album includes such song favorites as: Some Heads Are Gonna Roll, Freewheel Burning and Love Bites.

L.A. Guns - promo self-titled album cover pic - #1988LA

Top: front cover, Bottom: CD back cover

L.A. Guns - CD back cover promo pic - #1988TG

1988L.A. GUNS release their full-length and self-titled studio album. On this memorable L.A. GUNS album, Phil Lewis is the vocalist and Tracii Guns is the lead guitarist. A significant album of Hard Rock from the 80’s, indeed.

Journey Greatest Hits - promo album cover - #336SPNS

2015Journey Greatest Hits sits at #94 on the Billboard Top 200 Albums Chart. This album has spent a whopping 336 non-consecutive weeks on Billboard’s Top 200! Whoa! Um… maybe Journey should be inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame, one of these days?

Happy Birthday - promo banner - #2014BD

Rammstein - Metal Hammer - cover promo pic - Feb - 2011

Above: Metal Hammer cover feature (Feb. 2011)

Below: My Rock cover feature (Dec. 2011)

Rammstein - My Rock - promo magazine cover - jan - 2012

TILL LINDEMANN

On January 4th, 1963, Till Lindemann was born in Germany. Happy birthday, Till! Whoa, yeah! Till is world-famously known as the lead vocalist and co-founding member for the German Industrial Metal band: Rammstein. Six critically acclaimed studio album have been released by Rammstein. Long live Till Lindemann!

____________________________

Stone - 2011 Photo #1

LONG LIVE METAL.

REST IN PEACE, PETER STEELE.

LONG LIVE THE ROOTS & FAMILY TREE OF METAL.

Stone.

On This Day In METAL History – January 3rd… And A Metal Birthday Salute To John Paul Jones!

Posted in classic rock, Hard Rock, movies, music news, rock music, rock music news with tags , , , , , , on January 3, 2015 by Metal Odyssey

Nazareth - Love Hurts - promo 45rpm single cover sleeve - #1976DM

On January 3rd, 1976 – Scotland’s Nazareth reaches #8 on the Billboard Hot 100 Singles Chart with their hit (cover) power ballad: Love Hurts. This great song was originally written by Boudleaux Bryant and recorded first by The Everly Brothers in 1960. Whoa!

Paranormal Activity - The Marked Ones - promo movie poster pic - #201503

On this day in 2014 – Paranormal Activity: The Marked Ones released to wide-screen theaters. This Horror film was written and directed by Christopher Beau Landon. Horror films and the supernatural are… Metal.

Nickelback - The Best Of Volume 1 - promo album cover pic - #2014AL

On January 3rd, 2015 – The Best Of Nickelback: Volume 1 sits re-entered in the Billboard Top 200 Albums Chart at #130. This Nickelback compilation has also peaked at #21.

Nirvana - Nevermind - large promo album pic!

On this day in 2015 – Nirvana’s Nevermind sits re-entered in the Billboard Top 200 Albums Chart at #170. This iconic Grunge/Alternative Rock album hit #1 back in 1992.

Metallica - The Black Album - promotional album cover pic - #1991JH

On January 3rd, 2015Metallica’s “Black Album” sits re-entered in the Billboard Top 200 Albums Chart at #198. This Metallica album debuted at #1, back in 1991 and has now spent 329 non-consecutive weeks on the Billboard Top 200 albums chart. Hot, damn!

Happy Birthday - promo banner - #2014BD

John Paul Jones - Led Zeppelin - Bass Player magazine cover promo - #2008

Above: Bass Player cover feature – February, 2008

NME Magazine Cover Promo - Joshua Homme - David Grohl, John Paul Jones - 2009

Above: Them Crooked Vultures, NME cover feature – November 2009. From L to R: John Paul Jones, Joshua Homme and David Grohl.

JOHN PAUL JONES

On January 3rd, 1946, John Paul Jones was born in England. Happy birthday, John! Whoa, man! John Paul Jones is a multi-instrumentalist and world-famously known as the co-founder, bassist and co-songwriter for the iconic Led Zeppelin. In 1995, Led Zeppelin were inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame, being presented by the great Aerosmith.

In 2009, the supergroup Them Crooked Vultures released their debut and self-titled studio album. John Paul Jones played bass, keyboards and piano, among other instruments on this album. Them Crooked Vultures also featured David Grohl on drums and Josh Homme (Queens of the Stone Age) on vocals and guitar. Long live John Paul Jones and Metal be thy name!

John Paul Jones - Zooma - promo album cover pic - #1999

Above: In 1999, John Paul Jones released Zooma; his instrumental debut solo album.

___________________________

Stone - 2011 Photo #1

LONG LIVE METAL.

LONG LIVE THE ROOTS & FAMILY TREE OF METAL.

Stone.

On This Day In METAL History – January 2nd…

Posted in classic rock, Hard Rock, movies, music news, rock music, rock music news with tags , , , , , on January 2, 2015 by Metal Odyssey

ACDC - Back In Black - promo album cover pic - #1980

2015 – AC/DC Back In Black (originally released in 1980) is sitting at #113 on the Billboard Top 200 albums chart. This is incredible proof that AC/DC has created timeless Hard Rock.

ACDC - Rock Or Bust - promo album cover pic - 2014 - #12

2015 – AC/DC Rock Or Bust is holding steady at #17, on the Billboard Top 200 Albums Chart. This new AC/DC album debuted at #1 in Australia and #3 in the UK and United States. Whiz-bang!

Nickelback - No Fixed Address - promo album cover pic - #201417

2015 – Nickelback No Fixed Address is at #46 on the Billboard Top 200 Albums Chart. This new Nickelback album peaked at #4 as well. Whoa!

Slipknot - 5 The Gray Chapter - promo cover pic - 2014PG

2015 – Slipknot .5: The Gray Chapter is at #98 on the Billboard Top 200 Albums Chart. This first-rate Metal album debuted at #1, on the Billboard Top 200 Albums Chart as well. Rest in peace, Paul Gray.

Queen - Greatest Hits - promo album cover pic - #1001

2015 – Queen Greatest Hits is sitting at #43 on the iTunes Albums Chart. This is proof as to how many generations of fans that the iconic Queen has garnered. Rest in peace, Freddie Mercury.

The Woman In Black 2 Angel Of Death - promo movie poster pic - #201502

2015 – The Woman In Black 2: Angel Of Death is released to wide-screen theaters, via Hammer Films. This Horror film stars: Helen McCrory, Jeremy Irvine, Phoebe Fox, Leanne Best and Oaklee Pendergast. This film was written by Joe Croker. Horror films are… Metal.

______________________________

Stone - 2011 Photo #1

LONG LIVE METAL.

LONG LIVE THE ROOTS & FAMILY TREE OF METAL.

Stone.

On This Day In METAL History – January 1st, 2015 – New Years Day Edition!

Posted in classic rock, Hard Rock, Music, music news, rock music, rock music news with tags , , , , on January 1, 2015 by Metal Odyssey

The Kinks - you really got me - arista records - 45rpm

1974Clive Davis launches a new record label: Arista Records.

Rush - Permanent Waves - promo album cover pic - #1980GL

1980RUSH released their seventh studio album, Permanent Waves. This album went on to become RUSH’s first top five album in the United States, peaking at #4 on the Billboard 200 albums chart the very next month. Two songs featured on this album, The Spirit Of Radio and Freewill, were FM radio favorites and now Classic Rock format mainstays.

SUB POP - record label logo - #010115

1989Nirvana signed their first record contract, a three-year three-album agreement with Sub Pop Records. Whoa!

The Who - Classic Band Logo - #00TW11

The Kinks - Classic Band Logo - B&W - #60STK

1990The Kinks and The Who are inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame. Icons of Heavy Rock, both!

__________________________

Stone - 2011 Photo #1

HAPPY METAL NEW YEAR!

LONG LIVE METAL.

LONG LIVE THE ROOTS & FAMILY TREE OF METAL.

Stone.

On This Day In METAL History – December 31st…

Posted in classic rock, Hard Rock, movies, Music, music news, rock music, rock music news with tags , , , , on December 31, 2014 by Metal Odyssey

ACDC - Classic Band Logo - #10014

On December 31st, 1973 – The iconic AC/DC made their live concert debut at the Chequers Club, in Sydney, Australia. The AC/DC story continues… Whoa!

Witchboard - promo movie poster - #1986WHM

On this day in 1986 – The Horror/Drama film Witchboard was released to wide-screen theaters. The theme of this movie is: don’t F*CK around with Ouija boards. Go ahead… see what happens by chasing down this very cool film. In 1986, this movie was rated R; today it would be rated PG13. Um, yeah.

Witchboard stars: Todd Allen, Clare Bristol, Burke ByrnesRyan Carroll and written/directed by Kevin Tenney. Scary movies are… Metal.

Happy Birthday - promo banner - #2014BD

Tom Hamilton - Bass Musician - promo magazine cover - #2012TH

TOM HAMILTON

On December 31st, 1951, Tom Hamilton was born in Colorado, USA. Happy Rockin’ birthday, Tom! Whiz-bang! Tom Hamilton is world-famous as the bassist, co-songwriter and founding member for Aerosmith. Tom Hamilton is a Rock And Roll Hall Of Famer, with Aerosmith being inducted back in 2001. Long live Tom Hamilton! Metal Be Thy Name.

Aerosmith - Facebook Promo Band Banner - #1231TH

_____________________________

Stone - 2011 Photo #1

LONG LIVE METAL.

LONG LIVE THE ROOTS & FAMILY TREE OF METAL.

Stone.

On This Day In METAL History – December 30th…

Posted in classic rock, Metal, Music, music news, rock music, rock music news with tags , , , , on December 30, 2014 by Metal Odyssey

Ted Nugent - Cat Scratch Fever - promo album cover pic - #1977TN

On December 30th, 1977Ted Nugent with Golden Earring and Missouri performed at the Riverfront Coliseum, in Cincinnati, Ohio. Ted Nugent was touring in support of his third studio album: Cat Scratch Fever. Golden Earring were touring in support of their studio album: Mad Love, while Missouri were touring in support of their debut, self-titled, studio album.

Cheap Trick - All Shook Up - promo album cover pic - #1980RN

On this day in 1980Cheap Trick received a Gold record for their fifth studio album All Shook Up. This album was produced by George Martin, famously known as the Beatles producer. All Shook Up features the hit: Stop This Game. This album peaked on the U.S. Billboard 200 Albums Chart at #24.

Happy Birthday - promo banner - #2014BD

Raven group promo pic! -  2011

Raven – From L to R: John Gallagher (bass), Joe Hasselvander (drums) and Mark Gallagher (guitar).

Joe Hasselvander

On December 30th, 1956, Joe Hasselvander was born. Happy Metal birthday, Joe! Hell, yeah and whoa! Joe Hasselvander is famously known as the current and long-time drummer for the legendary NWOBHM band: RAVEN. Joe also is a former drummer and multi-instrumentalist for the pioneering Doom Metal band: Pentagram. Joe has also released three solo studio albums. Long live Joe Hasselvander! Metal be thy name.

Joe Hasselvander - The Hounds Of Hasselvander - #7712

Above: The Hounds Of Hasselvander (2007)

___________________________

Stone - 2011 Photo #1

LONG LIVE METAL.

LONG LIVE THE ROOTS & FAMILY TREE OF METAL.

Stone.

On This Day In METAL History – December 29th… From Jimi Hendrix To DIO

Posted in classic rock, Hard Rock, Metal, Music, music news, rock music, rock music news with tags , , , , on December 29, 2014 by Metal Odyssey

Top Of The Pops! - Original TV show logo - #1966JHE

On December 29th, 1966 – On the BBC’s Top Of The PopsThe Jimi Hendrix Experience made their television debut performing Hey Joe. As with many artists that appeared on Top Of The Pops, songs were mimed to achieve a higher transmission of quality sound and The Jimi Hendrix Experience were no exception to the mime.

The Who - Love Reign o'er Me - promo 45rpm single cover sleeve - #1973

On this day in 1973The Who reach #76 on the Billboard Hot 100 Singles Chart in the USA with Love Reign o’er Me. This song is featured on The Who’s sixth studio album and Rock Opera: Quadrophenia. This classic song was written by The Who’s guitarist Pete Townshend.

Led Zeppelin - Dyer Maker - promo 45rpm single cover sleeve - #1973

On December 29th, 1973Led Zeppelin reaches #20 on the Billboard Hot 100 Singles Chart in the USA with their hit: D’yer Mak’er. This song is featured on Led Zeppelin’s fifth studio album, released in 1973 on Atlantic Records: Houses Of The Holy.

KISS - Creatures Of The Night - promo album poster - the loudest band in the world - #1982

On this day in KISSTORY, December 29th, 1982: KISS began a tour in support of their tenth (heavy hittin’) studio album: Creatures of the Night. This tour embarked at the Bismarck Civic Center in Bismarck, North Dakota. This was the first KISS tour with guitarist Vinnie Vincent, who replaced the great Ace Frehley. This would be the last tour with KISS in makeup, until their 1996 reunion tour.

Aerosmith - band publicity card - #ST88

On this day in 1984Aerosmith performed at the New Haven Coliseum, in New Haven, Connecticut. Whoa!

DIO - Dream Evil - World Tour - tour program - promo pic - #1987RJD

On December 29th, 1987DIO, Megadeth and Savatage performed at the New Haven Coliseum, in New Haven, Connecticut. This was the DIO Dream Evil tour! I was very fortunate to have been there that night and witness three incredibly legendary Metal bands!

DIO‘s memorable Dream Evil studio album was released in 1987. Megadeth were touring in-between two tremendous studio albums: Peace Sells… but Who’s Buying? (1986) and So Far, So Good… So What! (1988). Savatage were touring in support of their incredibly grand and fourth full-length studio album: Hall Of The Mountain King.

Best Metal Buddy Scott Coverdale and Metal Buddy Rob were with me too, for this night of Metal madness; a night of Metal I shall never forget! Metal be thy name!

Savatage - Hall of the Mountain King - cover promo!

Above: SAVATAGE – Hall Of The Mountain King

__________________________

Source for The Jimi Hendrix Experience:

http://www.worldcharts.co.uk/musictv/totp/totp.htm

Stone - 2011 Photo #1

LONG LIVE METAL.

LONG LIVE THE ROOTS & FAMILY TREE OF METAL.

Stone.

On This Day In METAL History – December 28th… Led Zeppelin, Vanilla Fudge And The Doors

Posted in classic rock, concerts, Hard Rock, music news, rock music, rock music news with tags , , , , , on December 28, 2014 by Metal Odyssey

Vanilla Fudge - Led Zeppelin - promo flyer -

On December 28th, 1968Led Zeppelin performed their first concert in Canada at the Pacific Coliseum in Vancouver, British Columbia, supporting Vanilla Fudge. Notice the above concert flyer doesn’t even have Led Zeppelin billed on it! Holy baloney! It’s amazing Metal history, to say the very least!

The Led Zeppelin lineup was of course: Robert Plant (vocals), Jimmy Page (guitars), John Paul Jones (bass) and the late John Bonham on drums. Rest in peace, John Bonham. The stellar lineup for Vanilla Fudge, on this date was: Mark Stein (vocals & organ/keys), Tim Bogert (bass & vocals), Vince Martell (guitar & vocals) and Carmine Appice (drums & vocals).

Led Zeppelin - Classic Band Logo - B&W - #016601

I’m not taking anything away from the legendary Vanilla Fudge; there have been many instances in Metal history where I can look back and chuckle at who opened for what band. Vanilla Fudge are an important and legendary band that also paved roads for Hard Rock and Heavy Metal. Heck, I remember seeing Metallica open for Ozzy Osbourne; it’s all part of the natural progression of any upstart band, regardless of the fame of any individual band members. The exposure that Led Zeppelin received by opening for Vanilla Fudge was more than likely immeasurable, back in the day.

You will have to zoom-in (below) to read this not too pleasant review of Led Zeppelin’s supporting performance, written by “Teen Talk” reporter Jim Allan. Hey, as I believe: any press is good press, if you’re a band. Jim Allan did dig the performance by Vanilla Fudge, however.

Led Zeppelin - Vanilla Fudge concert review - 1968 - Jim Allan - promo pic

Below is a real-deal ticket stub from this iconic night of Hard Rock and Psychedelia:

Vanilla Fudge - Led Zeppelin - ticket stub - Vancouver - 1968 Concert - promo pic

You can read much more about Led Zeppelin opening for Vanilla Fudge by clicking the link below! Whoa!

http://www.ledzeppelin.com/show/december-28-1968

The Doors - Touch Me - Wild Child - promo 45rpm - single cover sleeve - #1968JM

On December 28th, 1968 – The Doors released their single Touch Me. This hit went on to reach #3 on the Billboard Hot 100 Singles Chart, becoming the third Gold Single from The Doors. This sensational song is featured on The Doors fourth studio album, The Soft Parade, released in 1969, via Elektra. Rest in peace, Jim Morrison and Ray Manzarek.

___________________________

Stone - 2011 Photo #1

LONG LIVE METAL.

LONG LIVE THE ROOTS & FAMILY TREE OF METAL.

Stone.

On This Day In METAL History – December 26th…

Posted in classic rock, Hard Rock, movies, Music, music news, rock music, rock music news with tags , , , , on December 26, 2014 by Metal Odyssey

The Doors - Chuck Berry - The Scene At The Winterland Ballroom - December - 1967 - promo flyer

On December 26th, 1967 – The Doors and Chuck Berry began a three night stand at The Fillmore Scene At Winterland, in San Francisco, California. The (late) Bill Graham was the concert promoter. The artist for above concert flyer was Bonnie MacLean. Legends, all.

ACDC - For Those About To Rock We Salute You - promo cover pic - #1981BJAY

On this day in 1981 – AC/DC reaches #1 on the Billboard 200 Albums Chart with For Those About To Rock We Salute You. Produced by Robert John “Mutt” Lange, this album was the first #1 for AC/DC. I love this album and my favorite songs on it are: Let’s Get It Up, C.O.D., Evil Walks, Put The Finger On You and Inject The Venom. Whoa!

KISS - World Tour - 1983-1984 - Lick It Up - promo flyer - #122683

On this day in KISSTORY – December 26, 1983: KISS opened the United States leg of their “Lick It Up” Tour, at The Omni in Atlanta, Georgia. Lick It Up was the 11th studio album released by the mighty KISS, back in 1983 and first album cover to show KISS without their makeup. Holy moly!

Def Leppard - Animal - promo CD single - cover pic - #1987JEDL

On December 26th, 1987Def Leppard hits #19 on the Billboard Hot 100 Singles Chart with Animal. This song is featured in Def Leppard’s fourth studio album from 1987: Hysteria. Boasting seven hit songs, Hysteria reached #1 in both the UK and United States. Holy mackerel!

_____________________________

Stone - 2011 Photo #1

LONG LIVE METAL.

LONG LIVE THE ROOTS & FAMILY TREE OF METAL.

Stone.

On This Day In METAL History – December 24th… And A Happy Rockin’ Birthday Salute To LEMMY!

Posted in celebrity birthdays, classic rock, Metal, music news, rock music, rock music news with tags , , , , , on December 24, 2014 by Metal Odyssey

Guns N Roses - Welcome To The Jungle - promo 45rpm single cover sleeve - #1988AR

On December 24th, 1988Guns N’ Roses hits #7 on the Billboard Hot 100 Singles Chart with their song Welcome to the Jungle. This song is featured on the band’s debut studio album: Appetite For Destruction, released in 1987.

Poison - Every Rose Has Its Thorn - promo 45rpm - single cover sleeve - #1988PM

On this day in 1988Poison hits #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 Singles Chart with their power ballad: Every Rose Has Its Thorn. This song is featured on Poison’s second studio album from 1988: Open Up and Say… Ahh!.

Bon Jovi - Always - 45rpm single cover sleeve - #1994BJ

On December 24th, 1994Bon Jovi reaches #4 on the Billboard Hot 100 Singles Chart with their power ballad Always. This song is featured on Bon Jovi’s 1994 Greatest Hits album: Crossroad.

Pearl Jam - Vitalogy - promo CD cover pic - #1995PJ

On this day in 1994 – The third studio album from Pearl JamVitalogy, reached #1 on the Billboard 200 Albums Chart for one week. This was Pearl Jam’s second #1 studio album. Vitalogy debuted at #55 two weeks prior, when it was issued on vinyl two weeks prior to the cassette and CD release. Whoa!

Happy Birthday - promo banner - #2014BD

Lemmy - Motorhead - Decibel cover promo pic - #661224

Above: February 2014 issue of Decibel.

LEMMY KILMISTER

On December 24th, 1945, Lemmy Kilmister was born in England. Happy Rockin’ birthday, Lemmy! Hell, yeah and whoa! The legendary Lemmy is world-famously known as the bassist, vocalist, co-founder and co-songwriter for the iconic Motörhead.

Since the release of 1977’s debut and self-titled studio album, Motörhead have amassed an enormous discography which includes 21 studio albums. With relentless world-wide touring and never succumbing to the commercial mainstream, Motörhead has persevered and achieved success with their unique blend of Rock N’ Roll savagery.

Regardless of Motörhead’s non-mainstream sound and persona, the band won a Grammy in 2005 for Best Metal Performance and have been nominated once again for 2015. This may sound cliché, yet there has never been another Lemmy and Motörhead and there never will be either.

Before Motörhead, Lemmy was a member of such bands: The Rockin’ Vickers, Sam Gopal and Hawkwind. Seeing Motörhead live for the first time, back in the mid 80’s, was my Metal rite of passage. Long live the beloved Lemmy! Metal be thy name. – Stone

Motorhead - promo group pic - #10

MOTÖRHEAD

From L to R: Phil Campbell, Lemmy and Mikkey Dee.

____________________________

Stone - 2011 Photo #1

LONG LIVE METAL.

LONG LIVE THE ROOTS & FAMILY TREE OF METAL.

Stone.

On This Day In METAL History – December 22nd… Happy Rockin’ Birthday, Rick Nielsen Of Cheap Trick!

Posted in celebrity birthdays, classic rock, Hard Rock, music news, rock music, rock music news with tags , , , , , on December 22, 2014 by Metal Odyssey

Rick Nielsen - US Rockstar - promo magazine cover - January - 2014

Above: January 2014 issue of U.S. Rockstar Magazine.

On December 22nd, 1946, Rick Nielsen was born in Elmhurst, Illinois. Happy Rockin’ birthday, Rick! Whoa, yeah and Metal be thy name! Rick Nielsen is world-famous as the co-founder, guitarist, songwriter and backing vocalist for the amazing Cheap Trick. It’s no secret that the legendary Rick Nielsen has been an innovator and influence during his exemplary Rock ‘N Roll career. From the late John Lennon to Dave Grohl, with Mötley Crüe in between, Rick Nielsen has collaborated with the very best.

Rick Nielsen - Creem - December 1980 - promo cover

Above: December 1980 issue of Creem.

Why Rick Nielsen and Cheap Trick are not in the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame is bewildering to me. Regardless, this post is about celebrating the birthday and Rock ‘N Roll achievements of Rick Nielsen; so onward we venture! Below are several very cool facts about the Rock ‘N Roll career of Rick Nielsen and Cheap Trick. Enjoy! Whoa.

Fuse - promo album cover pic - #1969RN - Rick Nielsen

01Rick Nielsen and Cheap Trick bassist Tom Peterson both belonged to a band named Fuse, before Cheap Trick was formed. Fuse released an eight song album in 1970, via Epic Records. (See photo above).

02 – Cheap Trick have released 16 studio albums since 1977. Cheap Trick have also released 7 live albums and numerous compilations.

03 – Cheap Trick have been featured on 29 movie soundtracks.

04 – Cheap Trick have earned 40 Gold and Platinum recording awards.

Rick Nielsen - original orange five neck guitar - Hamer

Above: Rick Nielsen’s 1981 Hamer (original orange) Five Neck guitar that is now on display at Piece; which is Rick Nielsen’s restaurant in Chicago. Whoa, man, that’s cool!

05 – Rick Nielsen’s father, Ralph Nielsen, was a famous tenor that toured extensively and recorded 40 solo albums. Ralph Nielsen later opened a musical instrument store in Rockford, Illinois. Rick Nielsen moved to Rockford Illinois with his family, at 8 years old.

06 – Rick Nielsen is a self-taught musician who started off playing drums and later switched to guitar.

07 – Adding to Rick Nielsen’s iconic guitar playing and persona is his Hamer custom-made Five Neck guitar, as pictured above and below on the 1997 (self-titled) Cheap Trick album cover. Rick Nielsen owns 3 different Hamer Five Neck guitars.

Cheap Trick - promo album pic - 1997 - #97RNRZTPBEC

Above: 1997 Cheap Trick (self-titled) album cover.

__________________________

Rick Nielsen/Cheap Trick facts sources:

http://www.cheaptrick.com

http://onmilwaukee.com

MetalOdyssey

LONG LIVE RICK NIELSEN.

LONG LIVE CHEAP TRICK.

Stone.

On This Day In METAL History – December 21st… From Deep Purple To Shaun Morgan

Posted in classic rock, Hard Rock, movies, music news, rock music, rock music news with tags , , , , , on December 21, 2014 by Metal Odyssey

Deep Purple - The Book Of Taliesyn - promo album cover pic - #1968JLIPRB

On December 21st, 1968Deep Purple performed at the Fillmore East in New York City. Deep Purple were touring in support of their second studio album: The Book of Taliesyn. Whoa!

Blackfoot - Strikes - promo cover pic - #1979RM

On this day in 1979Blackfoot hits #38 on the Billboard Hot 100 Singles Chart with their hit Train, Train. This song is featured on the second studio album from Blackfoot, released in 1979: Strikes. This is a spectacular Southern Rock album, in my Metal opinion.

Johnny Dangerously - promo movie poster pic - #1984MKJP

On December 21st, 1984 – The comedy film Johnny Dangerously was released to wide-screen theaters, via 20th Century Fox. Johnny Dangerously includes a star-studded cast of: Michael KeatonJoe Piscopo, Marilu Henner, Maureen Stapleton, Peter Boyle, Griffin Dunne, Dom DeLuise, Danny DeVito, Alan Hale, Jr., and NFL legend Dick Butkus. This comedy film was directed by Amy Heckerling.

Heart - promo album cover pic - #1985ANW

On this day in 1985Heart reached the top of the Billboard 200 Albums Chart for the first and only time, with their self-titled studio album. Heart only spent one week at number one.

Iron Maiden - No Prayer For The Dying - promo cover pic - #1990BDSSJG

On December 21st, 1990 – The mighty Iron Maiden performed at Westfalenhallen in Dortmund, Germany. Iron Maiden were touring in support of their eighth studio album: No Prayer For The Dying. This Iron Maiden album kicks 100% absolute Metal ass. Yes, it does.

Queen - Bohemian Rhapsody - promo cover pic - 1974FM

On this day in 1991Queen’s Bohemian Rhapsody topped the UK Singles Chart for the second time, entering the chart at #1. This iconic song was re-released as a single worldwide, after Queen’s legendary vocalist Freddie Mercury passing away one month earlier.

KISS - Saves Christmas - Family Guy - promo still pic - #2001GS

(Photo Credit: Fox Network)

On this day in KISStory – KISS made a guest appearance on Family Guy where they appeared in a holiday special: A Very Special Family Guy Freakin’ Christmas. This was the 16th episode of the third season of Family Guy on the Fox Network.

Happy Birthday - promo banner - #2014BD

Seether - publicity pic - 2014 - #12SM

Photo credit: Seether Facebook – From L to R: John Humphrey, Shaun Morgan and Dale Stewart.

SHAUN MORGAN

On December 21st, 1978, Shaun Morgan was born, in South Africa. Happy Rockin’ birthday, Shaun! Hell, yeah and whoa! Shaun Morgan is famously known as the co-founder, singer, songwriter and guitarist for the Alternative Rock/Metal band Seether.

Seether - Isolate And Medicate - promo album cover pic - 2014 - #07SM

The dynamic Seether have released six album since 2002, with Isolate And Medicate being their newest release on July 1st, 2014. Seether and Papa Roach will be touring together, in 2015. For more info on this tour and Seether, click here: Seether.com.

___________________________

Stone - 2011 Photo #1

LONG LIVE METAL.

LONG LIVE THE ROOTS & FAMILY TREE OF METAL.

Stone.

On This Day In METAL History – December 20th… And A Rockin’ Birthday Salute To Peter Criss!

Posted in classic rock, Hard Rock, movies, Music, music news, rock music, rock music news with tags , , , , , on December 20, 2014 by Metal Odyssey

Rush - Exit Stage Left - promo album cover pic - #1981GL

On December 20th, 1981RUSH performed at the Hartford Civic Center, in Hartford, Connecticut. This was the Exit…Stage Left Tour, with RUSH supporting their newly released live album Exit…Stage Left. RUSH were also touring in support of their eighth studio album, released in 1981: Moving Pictures.

Enemy Mine - promo movie poster pic - #1985D

On this day in 1985Enemy Mine, the Science Fiction/Adventure film was released to wide-screen theaters. Enemy Mine stars acting legends Dennis Quaid and Louis Gossett Jr., with the film’s director being Wolfgang Petersen. I haven’t seen this movie in years and I remember really liking it. I remember HBO having Enemy Mine in its rotation, back in the day, therefore I did see it a few times. Enemy Mine is… Metal.

Iron Maiden - A Matter Of Life And Death - promo tour book cover - #2006SHBD

On December 20th, 2006 – The mighty IRON MAIDEN performed at the Point Theatre in Dublin, Ireland. This was one of many tour stops for IRON MAIDEN’s A Matter Of Life And Death Tour. The fourteenth studio album from IRON MAIDEN, A Matter Of Life And Death, was released in August of 2006.

Pop Evil - Onyx - promo album cover pic #2013LK

On this day in 2013 – Hard Rockers Pop Evil performed at The Intersection in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Pop Evil were touring in support of their third studio album: Onyx. If you don’t own any Pop Evil CD’s you are maybe… constipated. Truth.

Pop Evil - promo band pic - 2014 - #7712LK

On December 20th, 2014Pop Evil returns to The Intersection in Grand Rapids, Michigan, to kick some live Hard Rockin’ ass. Whoa! Long live Pop Evil.

Jethro Tull - Classic Band Logo - #1967JTIA

On this day in 2014Ian Anderson and The Best Of Jethro Tull performs at The Civic in Auckland, New Zealand. Built in 1929, The Civic is one of the few remaining Atmospheric Theatres in the world. Whoa! Jethro Tull was named after an eighteenth century English agricultural pioneer; this individual invented the seed drill. Whoa again!

Happy Birthday - promo banner - #2014BD

Peter Criss - solo album cover promo pic!

Above: 1978 Platinum selling solo album (Casablanca)

Peter Criss - photo montage - 2014 - #410PC

PETER CRISS

On December 20th, 1945, Peter George John Criscuola aka Peter Criss was born, in Brooklyn, New York. Happy Rockin’ birthday, Peter! Whoa, man, yeah! Peter Criss is world-famously known as the co-founding member and former drummer for the iconic KISS.

As a breast cancer survivor, Peter Criss donates his time to the breast cancer cause; two charities Peter Criss has been involved in are the American Cancer Society’s Making Strides Against Breast Cancer and as artist ambassador for Hard Rock’s Pinktober Campaign for breast cancer awareness.

Kiss - Beth - promo 45rpm - single cover sleeve - #1976PCK

Back in 1976, the ballad Beth was released as a single. Co-written and sung by Peter Criss, Beth sailed through the Billboard Hot 100 Singles Chart, peaking at #7. This song marked the first Gold single for KISS. Beth is featured on the fourth studio album from KISS, released in 1976: Destroyer.

Peter Criss - One For All - promo album cover pic - #2007PCD

Above: Peter Criss – One For All (2007/Megaforce)

Peter Criss has a solo career on his Rockin’ resume as well; with 6 solo studio album releases of: Peter Criss (1978), Out Of Control (1980), Let Me Rock You (1982), Cat #1 (1994) and One For All (2007). On April 10th, 2014, Peter Criss along with Gene Simmons, Paul Stanley and Ace Frehley were inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame, together as KISS.

Peter Criss - Makeup To Breakup - book cover - promo pic!

In October of 2012, Peter Criss released his autobiography, Makeup To Breakup. This Peter Criss autobiography broke the top ten on the New York Times Best Seller List, landing at number seven. I’ve read this book and believe me, it’s a tell-all. I highly recommend Makeup To Breakup to all KISS and Rock fans alike. Long live Peter Criss and… Metal be thy name. – Stone

_____________________________

Peter Criss Fact source:

http://www.petercriss.net

Stone - 2011 Photo #1

LONG LIVE METAL.

LONG LIVE THE ROOTS & FAMILY TREE OF METAL.

Stone.

On This Day In METAL History – December 19th…

Posted in classic rock, Hard Rock, movies, Music, music news, rock music, rock music news with tags , , , , on December 19, 2014 by Metal Odyssey

Molly Hatchet - promo album cover pic - #1978MH

Bob Seger and the Silver Bullet Band - Stranger In Town - promo cover pic

On December 19th, 1978Molly Hatchet and Bob Seger & The Silver Bullet Band performed at Riverfront Coliseum, in Cincinnati, Ohio. Whoa! Molly Hatchet were on tour supporting their debut and self-titled album. Bob Seger & The Silver Bullet Band were touring in support of their studio album, released in 1978: Stranger In Town.

Seems Like Old Times - promo movie poster - #1980GHCCCG

On this day in 1980Neil Simon’s Seems Like Old Times was released to wide-screen theaters, via Columbia. This Romantic Comedy classic stars acting legends: Chevy Chase, Goldie Hawn and Charles Grodin. The director of this film was Jay Sandrich. I have seen this film dozens of times, if not more. I highly recommend it to those  who dig good old-fashioned comedy from the late 70’s and early 80’s era. This comedy film from yesteryear is… Metal.

Whitesnake - Is This Love - 45rpm single cover sleeve promo - 1987DC

On December 19th, 1987 – Whitesnake hits #2 on the Billboard Hot 100 Singles Chart with their power ballad: Is This Love. This song is featured on Whitesnake’s self-titled album from 1986.

Aerosmith "Get A Grip" x-large album pic!

On this day in 1994Aerosmith performed the final concert of their 240 date tour in support of their 11th studio album Get a Grip. This concert took place at Mama Kin’s Music Hall in Boston and was broadcasted on radio stations throughout North America.

___________________________

Stone - 2011 Photo #1

LONG LIVE METAL.

LONG LIVE THE ROOTS & FAMILY TREE OF METAL.

Stone.

On This Day In METAL History – October 12th…

Posted in classic rock, Hard Rock, Heavy Metal, Metal, music news, rock music, rock music news with tags , , , , , , on October 12, 2014 by Metal Odyssey

New York Dolls - debut album cover promo - 1973

On October 12th, 1971 – New York Dolls are formed, in New York City. The roots of Glam Metal are planted. (Pictured above: the 1973 debut & self-titled New York Dolls album).

The Who - Its Hard - promo album cover pic - 1982

On this day, in 1982 – On their farewell tour, The Who performed the first of two nights at Shea Stadium in Flushing, Queens, New York City. The Clash was the opening act for The Who, at both concerts. (Pictured above is the tenth studio album from The Who, It’s Hard, released in 1982).

Dee Snider - The True Meaning Of Hair Metal - promo pic

On October 12th, 1987 –  Twisted Sister singer Dee Snider announced that he was leaving the band. Twisted Sister reunites ten years later, with Dee Snider leading the pack.

Bill Graham - Presents - biography promo cover

On this day, in 1991 – The final Day on the Green festival was presented by famed promoter Bill Graham at the Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum in Oakland, California. Bill Graham passed away 13 days later, from injuries sustained in a Helicopter crash in California. Metallica was the headliner and this legendary bill also included Queensrÿche, Faith No More and Soundgarden.

Nirvana - Nevermind - large promo album pic!

On October 12th, 1991 – Nirvana’s Nevermind becomes the #1 album in America. This was the second studio album from Nirvana and first to feature Dave Grohl on drums.

Metallica "The Black Album" x-large album pic!

Metallica – (aka) The Black Album – front cover

Metallica - The Black Album - back cover - 10053

Metallica (aka) The Black Album – back cover

On this day, in 1991Metallica hits #16 on the Billboard singles chart with Enter Sandman. This song is featured on the 1991 self-titled Metallica, aka The Black Album.

Jimmy Page - Robert Plant - Unledded - promo dvd cover pic

On October 12th, 1994 – The live documentary Unledded, airs on MTV, where legends Jimmy Page and Robert Plant reunite in song and on stage. Unledded features four live acoustic versions of Led Zeppelin classics, along with eight new Jimmy Page and Robert Plant collaborations.

Tommy Lee - Sesac Magazine - cover promo - spring 2012

On This day, in 2005Mötley Crüe drummer Tommy Lee suffered minor burns at a concert in Casper, Wyoming during a pyrotechnics explosion, while being suspended from a wire 30 feet above the stage. Tommy Lee was treated at a local hospital for the injuries to his arm and face. (Pictured above: Sesac Magazine/Spring 2012)

_____________________________________

Stone - 2011 Photo #1

LONG LIVE METAL.

LONG LIVE THE ROOTS AND FAMILY TREE OF METAL.

Stone.

On This Day In METAL History – October 6th…

Posted in classic rock, Hard Rock, Heavy Metal, Metal, Music, music news, rock music, rock music news with tags , , , , , on October 6, 2014 by Metal Odyssey

Led Zeppelin - In Through The Out Door - promo cover pic

On October 6th, 1979 – Led Zeppelin’s In Through The Out Door was #1 on the U.S. Billboard album chart. Six versions of the album’s cover were issued, (above photo), each depicting the same bar scene, photographed from one of six different angles.

Queensryche - Empire - promo cover pic - #77E

On this day in 1990 – Queensrÿche peaked at number seven on the Billboard 200 Album Chart, with their fourth studio album, Empire. This sensational album went on to become Queensrÿche’s best-selling album, selling three million copies in the United States alone.

Billy Idol - LA Woman -  cover promo single - #33B

On October 6th, 1990 – Billy Idol peaked at number fifty-two on the Billboard Hot 100 Singles Chart, with his cover of The Doors’ L.A. Woman. It was Billy Idol’s last single to chart in the United States.

Slayer - Christ Illusion - promo cover pic - #77S

On this day in 2006 – Mumbai-based EMI Virgin India Ltd. announces that it will recall all copies of the most recent Slayer album, Christ Illusion, following protests by a Christian group, Mumbai-based Catholic Secular Forum (CSF).

KISS "Sonic Boom" large promo album pic!

On October 6th, 2009 – The iconic KISS releases their 19th studio album: Sonic Boom. This album is part of a three-disc set that is sold exclusively at Wal-Mart and Sam’s Club stores, as well as KISS online outlets.

BIRTHDAY ANNOUNCEMENT!

Tommy Stinson - One Man Mutiny - promo album cover pic

Tommy Stinson -bassist for The Replacements and Guns N’ Roses was born in 1966. Happy Rockin’ Birthday, Tommy! Whoa!

____________________________________

Stone - 2011 Photo #1

LONG LIVE METAL.

LONG LIVE THE ROOTS OF METAL.

LONG LIVE THE METAL FAMILY TREE.

Stone.

ROCK AND ROLL HALL OF FAME – TRULY IS A HALL OF SHAME.

Posted in 1970's hard rock bands, 1970's hard rock, 1970's heavy metal bands, 1970's heavy metal music, 1970's rock bands, 1980's hard rock bands, 1980's heavy metal bands, 1980's heavy metal music, 1990's heavy metal bands, 1990's hard rock bands, classic rock, classic rock bands, classic rock music, current heavy metal bands, hard rock bands, hard rock music, heavy metal bands, heavy metal history, heavy metal legends, heavy metal music, heavy metal music 2010, heavy metal news, metal odyssey, Music, old school heavy metal, old school heavy metal bands, rock & roll, rock and roll hall of fame complaints, rock and roll hall of fame inductees, rock and roll hall of fame members, rock and roll news, rock music with tags , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , on February 22, 2010 by Metal Odyssey

Well, another year has gone by and the “astute” historians and archive keepers of Rock and Roll History – The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, has bumbled another induction. WHERE IS… KISS? You know, the four guys known as GENE SIMMONS, PAUL STANLEY, ACE FREHLEY and PETER CRISS? Oh, god forbid if I dare mention the extended family of musicians that are/were members of KISS as well. I guess ABBA contributed so much more, to the “history” of Rock and Roll. I forgot, that ABBA is so damn hot right now in 2010 as well. Hey, disco needs it’s just due in The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame too… of course. While these Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Foundation dorks were at it, why didn’t they just induct The Wiggles right now, alongside ABBA? Get it over with. At this point, Bananarama and The Partridge Family will get inducted well before KISS ever gets their rightful induction into this snobby, uneducated in Heavy Metal, white collar, Pop Music is king… cheap excuse of a building.

Genesis, Jimmy Cliff, The Stooges and The Hollies deserve their rightful and historic recognition. Arguably, it is not ABBA’s fault they are recognized either… but give me a Metal break here. ABBA over KISS? That’s like choosing a glass of warm milk over a cold draft beer.

As quoted directly from the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame website:

“The 2010 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame performer inductees were chosen by more than 500 voters of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Foundation. Artists are eligible for inclusion in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame twenty-five years after their first recording is released.”

* Uh, yeah… what about… anything other than 25 years after their first album is released? Is that the only damn criteria? Crap, I’ll make a record then and wait 25 years to see if I get inducted.

* Who really is… this mysterious… 500 voters of The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Foundation? Are they all scholars, who are afraid of Hard Rock and Heavy Metal? Do any of these voters listen to Rock Music in the first place?

* It’s almost as if, these 500 voters of The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Foundation receive a copy of Rolling Stone Magazine, a few times a year, read about bands that get the good ol’ Rolling Stone Magazine seal of approval… and then… these voters decide, these are the bands! They must be good if Rolling Stone Magazine says so!

* Apparently, these 500 voters of The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Foundation get more psyched out by listening to Dancing Queen and Waterloo instead of Rock and Roll All Nite and Detroit Rock City.

* I’m not going to blab about how many Gold and Platinum Records KISS has achieved, chart singles, concert tickets sold, their impact on American Pop Culture, nor how many total albums they have put out… what’s the use? The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame doesn’t give a crap. ABBA is Back! ABBA = Rock Legends.

* Man, what would Elvis think and say of this mess they call The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame?

Some “important” dude, named Joel Peresman, (who thinks he knows about Rock and Roll by the way), gives this lackluster and embarrassing statement on the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame website:

“We are very happy to present this year’s inductees into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as they represent a great cross-section of artists that define the broad spectrum and history of rock and roll and people that have contributed immeasurably to our business” says Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Foundation President & CEO Joel Peresman.

* HEY JOEL: I guess KISS are not considered to be part of the people that have “contributed immeasurably to our business”… huh?

* HEY JOEL: Go slap down some vintage opera vinyl and eat your caviar. Then light up a $10,000 stogie and make a wet fart in your imported silk pajamas.

* HEY JOEL: You really, really, um, really, need to change your sign outside that building in Cleveland, Ohio, to read: ROCK AND ROLL HALL OF SHAME AND EXPENSIVE MUSEUM

LONG LIVE KISS!

KISS – IS HEREBY, THE FIRST BAND EVER, INDUCTED INTO THE METAL ODYSSEY ROCK AND ROLL AND HEAVY MUSIC HALL OF FAME!

I SHALL INDUCT BANDS AND MUSICIANS, WHENEVER I DAMN WELL FEEL LIKE IT, AND HAVE THIS LIST POSTED ON THE METAL ODYSSEY HOME PAGE FOR THE WORLD TO SEE AND ENJOY. A REAL ROCK AND ROLL HALL OF FAME. A REAL HEAVY MUSIC HALL OF FAME.

ON FEBRUARY 21, 2010, KISS HAS BEEN INDUCTED INTO THE METAL ODYSSEY ROCK AND ROLL AND HEAVY MUSIC HALL OF FAME.

CONGRATULATIONS KISS, ON BEING THE FIRST INDUCTEE INTO METAL ODYSSEY’S ROCK AND ROLL AND HEAVY MUSIC HALL OF FAME!