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1970s Rock legends: Still rolling or running on fumes

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Reflecting once more on the conclusion of iconic eras, the performances at Ozzy Osbourne’s and Jeff Lynne’s ELO farewell tours presented thought-provoking scenarios. While each artist had a unique approach to their final shows, both were tinged with a bittersweet turn of events. In fact, many 70’s bands are scheduling their own farewell concerts this year as well.

This detail has sparked numerous comments from readers. Some found it disheartening to see their beloved bands retiring their guitars and canceling performances, while others held differing opinions.

As an ardent fan, I’ve come across opinions suggesting that some artists were no longer at their creative peak and possibly should have retired from performing earlier. Some even perceived these final performances as more about making money than artistic expression. However, it’s important to note that Ozzy Osbourne’s “Back To The Beginning” event was actually a massive charity fundraiser, demonstrating his ongoing commitment to giving back.

1970s Rock legends: Keep on rocking or call a halt?

One significant cause of dissatisfaction was the absence of several original band members. Some of these founding stars either chose to leave or departed under contentious circumstances, while others sadly passed away, leaving their positions vacant and necessitating replacements.

The issue of when a group should disband arises whenever its members undergo significant changes. It seems straightforward, but it frequently proves to be complex. If the remaining band members still wish to perform, that’s acceptable. If fans continue to attend concerts, purchase merchandise, and albums, that’s wonderful as well. However, there are some conditions to consider.

In this version, I’ve tried to maintain the original meaning while using simpler language and a more conversational tone.

The band should realize that attendance and ticket sales might not be as strong due to lineup changes. Moreover, fans might be less willing to pay high prices for shows, especially in today’s context. Furthermore, it could be beneficial for some bands to communicate more transparently about their current status compared to when they first started out.

In some situations, particularly when participants come and go, it’s essential that the tour arrangement is transparent and straightforward.

Over time, I’ve noticed that certain bands have handled transitions among band members gracefully, while others haven’t. Let’s explore some iconic 1970s rock groups and evaluate how well they navigated major lineup changes in their post-legendary phase.

I find this topic fascinating because it sheds light on the resilience and adaptability of these bands, even in the face of significant change. The decisions they made about moving forward can tell us a lot about the essence of these groups and their enduring appeal.

1970s Rock legends that respected the line-up changes

Pink Floyd

The lineup and shifts within the band Pink Floyd have been quite transparent over the years. Initially, Syd Barrett parted ways with the group during its early phase. Subsequently, David Gilmour and Roger Waters have had their differences for quite some time. After Waters left the band, they continued to make music together. However, the album “Endless River,” released in 2014, signified the end of Pink Floyd’s journey in creating new music.

Restoring the iconic lineup of Gilmour, Waters, Rick Wright (R.I.P.), and Mason on stage at Live 8 in 2005 was nothing short of extraordinary, and it appears to have been a unique event. Regrettably, Richard Wright passed away in 2008, leaving Mason, Waters, and Gilmour to focus on their individual careers since then.

Led Zeppelin

In 1980, John Bonham’s passing signified the disbandment of the group. The remaining members found it impossible to carry on without him. However, the band persisted in various forms through sporadic re-releases, documentaries, and collaborative projects. The Live Aid performance in 1985 wasn’t a reunion effort, but due to multiple factors, having Phil Collins play drums for a short set didn’t turn out as successfully as anticipated. Nonetheless, the vivid recollections of the band at its best endure.

Queen

It appeared inevitable that Freddie Mercury’s death signaled the demise of Queen, given his magnetic personality, songwriting skills, exceptional vocal abilities, and commanding presence as the band’s frontman. However, against all odds, Brian May and Roger Taylor resurfaced as Queen anew after some period of time.

Over time, various artists have performed the role, but without a doubt, Adam Lambert has truly claimed it as his own in numerous live concerts. Although the band doesn’t release new songs, they don’t try to pass Lambert off as Freddie Mercury. Instead, they deliver outstanding, sold-out shows filled with fantastic music, upholding and carrying forward the legacy in a straightforward manner.

The Rolling Stones

Over the course of their career, this band has faced criticism for resembling a karaoke imitation of their early days. They’ve continued to perform on large tours, release the occasional album, and embrace the rock star persona. The departures of key members like Ian Stewart, Brian Jones, Bill Wyman, and Mick Taylor were smoothly handled as they left in various ways over time.

It was believed that Charlie Watts’ passing in 2021 might signal the end, but the band persists nonetheless. Last year, their Hackney Diamonds album left many pleasantly surprised by its quality and resurgence of form. This rejuvenation granted them another tour and allowed them to continue using their name for a bit longer.

Journey

It’s challenging to determine whether Journey should be placed in the top tier or much lower, given that they chose wisely to persist after switching lead vocalists. On one hand, they could be considered high up, as their decision allowed them to continue creating music. On the other hand, they might be seen as significantly lower due to the change potentially altering their original style and transforming them into a band primarily playing nostalgic hits for crowd-pleasing performances. To many listeners, Steve Perry was synonymous with Journey’s sound.

It’s tough to judge whether Journey should be ranked highly or lowly, considering they made a smart move by carrying on after replacing their lead singer. While it could indicate a top ranking due to their decision enabling them to keep making music, it might also suggest a lower position because the change may have affected their original style and turned them into a band playing nostalgic hits for audience participation. For many listeners, Steve Perry was the embodiment of Journey’s sound.

Multiple attempts to find a suitable replacement for him didn’t quite pan out. Arnel Pinada stood out vocally, yet he didn’t quite capture the classic Journey sound that original fans adore. However, it seems that the traditionalists might not be as keen, but the financially capable fans continue flocking to massive, sold-out concerts.

Continued on next page…

1970s Rock legends that rolled on too long

Foreigner

It seems clear that this band is operating on a different rung of the ladder now, considering the original lineup is mostly absent, except for Mick Jones who makes occasional appearances. His health issues have further limited his involvement, yet the band persists in performing gigs without him. At some point, it appears they might as well be a tribute or cover band, given how far removed they are from their original form.

Yes

One scenario involves verifying who’s participating before purchasing concert tickets, as the band members frequently changed and returned over the years. Add multiple iterations of the group touring concurrently, and it becomes quite confusing.

In late 2025, the revamped “Fragile” tour by Yes won’t feature any members from the original lineup, but just Steve Howe, a long-time band member. Fans prefer not to have to scrutinize the fine print to find out who’s performing.

The Who

Supporters are divided about whether to keep going or call it quits, between rocking on and drifting away. Roger Daltrey and Pete Townsend can deliver impressive performances, but without Keith Moon and John Entwistle by their side, they definitely lack something essential. When half of the band members are absent, is it still the same group?

In this situation, no, but rest assured, the other duo has a long history of delivering quality performances. They’ve been around for quite some time and have become quite skilled at it. However, their habit of announcing farewell tours can be disappointing to fans who are not fond of such goodbyes.

Lynyrd Skynyrd

It might be more understanding to listen to Lynyrd Skynyrd considering the devastating plane crash in 1977 that significantly impacted the group. Additionally, it’s worth considering if they view themselves as the continuation of the original band or a tribute act; possibly, it’s a blend of both.

After a decade since their tragic crash, certain members reunited to embark on a Lynyrd Skynyrd Tribute Tour, resulting in a 1991 album and continued evolution of the band. Numerous musicians joined and left, some with ties to the initial lineup, such as Johnny Van Zant (Ronnie’s brother), Artemis Pyle, and Garry Rossington until his 2023 passing. To many, this continuation, despite sounding similar, is considered a questionable decision.

A final mention for KISS, or is it? 

I can’t delve into the detailed history of KISS as a band, including every member who has been part of it, with or without the makeup and masks. However, over the years, there have been some changes in members. Notably, they embarked on two final tours, both billed as their last ever, which culminated in the End Of The Road Tour in 2003.

In an expected turn of events, their final performance took place as a pay-per-view television extravaganza. It transpired in the iconic Madison Square Garden on the 2nd of December, 2023.

After that announcement, Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons are set to reunite at the KISS Army’s 50th Anniversary extravaganza in Las Vegas this November. They will be joined by additional artists on a lineup that also features Bruce Kulick performing his own set. Could we speculate who else might join them?

As a devoted fan, I can hardly contain my excitement! Simmons has shared tantalizing details about a KISS avatar show, slated for Las Vegas in 2027. Could this be a glimpse into the future for many legendary bands? It seems that the golden era might not be coming to an end after all!

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2025-07-27 13:00

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