Green Tambourine by The Lemon Pipers
!968 #1 song on Billboard Charts. Upbeat TV produced this video that was televised across the country. The Ohio band was signed to Buddah Records and could not produce a hit record of their own. Record execs commissioned this song that the band reluctantly recorded. Lucky they did. This is their only song that took off. 9 years later guitarist Bill Bartlett experienced a flashback on another one and only hit "Black Betty" by Ram Jam. I think that might be a record!!! Lemon Piper Fan Page

Black Betty by Ram Jam
One hit wonder but it rocks! Not much info available on this 1977 song or the band. I can tell you that they had zero success other than this 32 year old song. Guitarists Bill Bartlett and Jimmy Santoro, and singer Myke Scavone are still cashing royalty checks from this song. Drummer Pete Charles and bassist Howie Blauvelt have both passed away. No website for the band

Hocus Pocus by Focus
Remake on their 1971 hit single. Hammond organist, flutist, writer, lead yodeler, Thijs van Leer of the Netherlands has brought Focus out of the ashes nearly 40 years after its hit single Hocus Pocus was released in the US. This extended version gets off to a slow start with a flute solo by van Leer then kicks into a very similar version to the 1971 hit. If you haven't heard these guys you are in for a real treat. The drums and Hammond organ are the meat of this song. They will be performing in the UK next month. Check their Home Page.

Help From My Friends by Joe Cocker
Rare Woodstock footage of Beatles cover sung by British Rocker Joe Cocker. Joe roughed up the polished Beatles version to suit his personality and gravel road voice. Woodstock propelled Joe to fame with a long career of many hits. His next live performances will be April 17th in St. Augustine and April 18th in Pompano Beach, Florida. Keep in touch at his Home Page.

Light My Fire by Jose Feliciano
This Doors cover song by Jose Feliciano climbed up to #3 on the charts in 1968. Jose started on accordion then spent up to 14 hours a day learning and practicing on the guitar that his grandfather gave him. Lets face it a guitar is much quieter than a squawking squeeze box!!! Jose made many TV and live guest appearances and can still be seen live now and then. Updates at his Home Page.

Touch Me by The Doors
Smother's Brother's special guest Jim Morrison and The Doors gave one of the better documented performances in existence of this group. Backed by live brass and string sections this song stood out from all the other Doors recordings. Ray Manzarek, John Densmore, and Robby Krieger never attempted to continue the band after Jim Morrisons early death. Oh how we miss him. There is an official Home Page for general info, music, and memorabilia.

Inside Looking Out By Grand Funk Railroad
Hershey PA was the place to be this day in 1969 to see this new upcoming band. Mark Farner, Don Brewer, and Mel Schacher redefined the sound of Rock and Roll on one of the earliest videos available for this historic act. Mel and Don are touring now without Mark with a new lineup bringing it to the road. Don't miss this show! Go to their Home Page for times and places.

Footstompin' Medley by Mark Farner
Grand Funk's show opening number. GFR's singer/writer/guitarist Mark Farner carried on that tradition after leaving Grand Funk as one of it's founders. This was one of the best rock songs of the 70's and all time for that matter! The Hammond B3 is at the forefront here and is a real classic treat for all of us keyboard players. Now get up and Dance!!! Regular updates at Marks Home Page.

Bad Reputation by Thin Lizzy
Drummer Brian Downey provided the driving almost tribal power and energy for this title track from the album "Bad Reputation". Not one of their bestsellers, this song I believe to be one of their finest compositions. Sadly, Thin Lizzy has had to carry on without lead singer/bassist Phil Lynott since his passing over 20 years ago. Their first hit "Whiskey In The Jar" was released by their record company against their wishes. The song ultimately brought the band into the limelight and was recorded by Metallica nearly 30 years later. Thin Lizzy has only two appearances scheduled this year co-starring with Metallica on the final leg of Metallica's European tour. Stay current at their Home Page.

Whiskey In The Jar by Metallica
Released in 1998 on the Garage Inc. double album of cover tunes, this song was well received and rode its way up the charts. Founded in Los Angeles in 1981, Metallica quickly outgrew the indie charts. Some fans were disappointed when they crossed over to mainstream, arguing that their sound became too polished and had lost it's edge. Regardless of opinion the band has remained successful having many revisions of their line up over the years. Front man James Hetfield is arguably one of the most recognized faces of Rock. On tour now in Europe, most concerts are all sold out. Tickets remain available for their final two European shows with Thin Lizzy. Tickets are still available for their upcoming US tour. Full details available on their Home Page.

Rainbow In The Dark by DIO
Cortland, NY native Ronnie James Dio used to play locally in and around my hometown of Kirkwood, NY as Ronnie Dio & The Elves. They Packed the house everywhere and every time they played. Hard driving Rock was his signature style with his vocals coming out loud and clear through the p.a. mix. Huge tower speakers pumped up loud as a freight train made conversation impossible. I know. I was there. That is how I became a LiveRockLover. I'm going to share a story with you of my bad boy rebel youth:

When I was 16, myself, guitarist/buddy Tommy Guinan and half the kids in town had fake ID's to do things that kids shouldn't have been doing. But it was fun so we did so gleefully. Our favorite use for these less than authentic documents was getting into "The Warehouse" on Friday and Saturday nights. The Warehouse was a huge hangar size pole building built for hosting large regional rock bands and large regional bands of bikers. Schlitz Dark Beer was $1.50 a picher, cigarettes were 50 cents out of the machine, admission was $2.00, and top drinks and shots were 75 cents. Ronnie Dio And The Elves played there often. Many of us had part time jobs learning the lifelong lesson "work hard, party hard". And to boot, some of us including Tom and myself managed to graduate from High School. Oh well, I am who I am today thanks to old friends, Ronnie Dio, and that local Honky Tonk! Long Live Rock & Roll!!!

Heaven And Hell by Black Sabbath
Ronnie James Dio fans were in a frenzy when their hero was chosen to front Black Sabbath. Ozzy's empty shoes were big ones to fill. Die hard Ozzy fans in general, understandably were not very receptive to the foreign transplant. Dio fans were in heaven with the all new material on the album "Heaven and Hell". I'm one of them. Ronnie's execution of Sabbath's older songs on stage were a failure however. Execution is the word. He was killing Ozzy's songs one by one like swatting fly's. It was obvious that he wan't even trying to sound good. I don't understand why. You could have tried harder Ronnie! Here is Sabbath w/Dio's title track that sounds like........Ronnie James Dio! Their new Home Page is coming soon. I wonder what's up?

Crazy Train by Ozzy Osbourne
Ozzy recovered professionally after leaving his success with Black Sabbath with the help of manager/promoter Sharon Arden, daughter of Don Arden, manager of Black Sabbath. Ozzy wasn't so lucky in his personal life however. Dealing with depression, alcoholism, and drug abuse along with many personal tragedies, Ozzy was successful but far from happy. On the upside this helped form his style that we all love today. He has since recovered and we wish him continued success! The Osbourne Family's reality TV show is always a gas to watch. If you haven't seen it there are plenty of reruns to catch up on. His Home Page says that he will be performing with Slash of Velvet Revolver at the Quart Festival in Norway June 30th through July 4th. Sorry to say I won't be there.

Smoke On The Water by Deep Purple
Purple's finest line up included vocalist Ian Gillian, guitarist Ritchie Blackmore, keyboardist Jon Lord, bassist Roger Glover, and drummer Ian Pace. Originating from Hertford, England, Deep Purple had their first hit with their cover of Joe South's "Hey Joe" later popularized by Jimmy Hendrix. Their "Live in Japan" double live album became one of the best selling live albums ever! This well produced video is one of the few known to exist with this lineup. I'm a big fan of "Hammond Organ" Guru, Jon Lord. His style along with Greg Allman influenced my keyboard chops that helped me win auditions with local bands. Ahhhh...Those that don't achieve success, write about it. Keeping much of their original line up, Deep Purple has reunited and on tour next month in Japan and Russia. Guess what?...Resentment caused Blackmore to decline to join them. Their Home Page will let us know where they will be later. See you there!!!

Man On The Silver Mountain by Rainbow
Guitarist Ritchie Blackmore left Deep Purple and recruited Purples warm up band Ronnie Dio and the Elves to form Ritchie Blackmores Rainbow aka Rainbow. It was a somewhat brief alliance. Dio and Blackmore found themselves in disagreement on many issues resulting in a parting of ways. Blackmore had a reputation for having an inflated ego that caused him to be more than difficult to work with. We'ved all had to deal with egos haven't we? Ronnie filled in the gaping hole left by Ozzie Osbourne getting thrown off his throne with Black Sabbath at this time in 1979. Legend has it that Ronnie first popularized the "horns" hand gesture that became falsely associated with Satan and is seen waving in the air at every rock concert today. Ronnie's grandmother used the gesture to ward off the "evil eye" as was old Italian custom. Now all you Rockers know that you are warding off evil, not welcoming it! Arguments are sure to ensue. Ritchie Blackmore's Home Page with Blackmores Night has the latest. Ritchie maybe difficult but his show Rocks Hard!!!

Falling In And Out Of Love by Lita Ford
Best known for "Close My Eyes Forever" duet with Ozzie Osbourne, Lita led the pack of Rock Divas in the 80's. My personal opinion is she was the best with her virtuoso guitar work and incredible, soulful vocals. I miss her. Please make more music for me Lita! If she reads this, maybe she will let us all know what's up on her Home Page!

Storm by The Joys
This band can be described as progressive rockers with Lita Ford's niece upfront and in charge. She's not related to Lita but who would know, no bio info on their Home Page. I hear a hint of Janis Joplin at times on some phrases here and there with guitars,bass,drums,vocals all pulling it together for a great polished sound! They do have tour dates listed and they are on tour right now.

Sahara by Nightwish
This band began its existence in 1996 in Scandinavia. They've been under my radar, this is the first that I have heard them. Huge arena filling sound, Outstanding vocalist backed by heavy electro-metal rockers with direct current energy. They are Rock and Roll with a style all their own. On their way to the US this May for 10 shows in two weeks! Don't miss them. Home Page.

Bad Company by Bad Company
Founded in 1973 with an all star lineup including singer Paul Rodgers and drummer Simon Kirke of Free, this hit was not their biggest but is one of my favorites. This band delivered the product with hit after hit performed live in concert. You can not possibly get more bang for your hard earned buck than a ticket to this show. Here is good news: A live DVD will be available early this year with a live concert tour to follow. Their Home Page will keep you up to date. Lets give these guys a hand, 36 years working and still hitting the road for us fans!!! Love is the word.

All Right Now by Free
Smash hit from 1971. I remember this tune shooting up the charts with its simple feel good lyrics that took Vietnam off our minds for a few minutes. Free was a feel good band that had a laid back bluesy sound. This song was away from their norm and gave them worldwide recognition. Lead singer Paul Rodgers proved his prowess with this band and went on to front for Bad Company and later fronted for The Firm and a 2004 tour with Queen. Hows that for versatility? No home page for them. There was no internet 38 years ago.

Driving South By Emil Velic
Yet another talented group that has nadda for a home page on Google. It has to be a very decent performance to sway me to post without being able to provide some free exposure. Writer/Guitarist Emil Velic showcases his compositions with this band that I'm guessing is from or performing in Italy. This band is just waiting for a talented front man or woman to take them to a higher level. I believe that Peter Wolf from JGeils is in between bands...Mmmm...Hire a detective Peter and track these guys down!

Vargan by Toke-Cha
Stunning pulsing psychedelic ethnic tribal composition. This band lives and works in Russia. They consider themselves electro- ethnic folk musicians. I say these guys get down and Rock! If this song doesn't get you up and dancing get to the hospital fast to see if you have a pulse! The Beatles would have flipped over these guys. Don't Bogart that hookah my friend! See their Home Page. While you are there make sure you listen to their song "fire". The song and sound quality are better than this video!

I need your help!!! For years I have scoured the internet for live rock band videos. I was not smart enough to save them on my computer. That led me to start this blog archive. I can go back any time and watch my favorite live rock videos. An added benefit is that now any and all can access this archive as well and save hours searching for videos worth viewing. You can help me in one or both of 2 ways. If you know of any one that would appreciate this archive please forward them the address. Second. PLEASE send me some leads for new relatively unknown bands. It is intensly difficult finding decent videos like the next posting. If you have a band, please post a live recording to You Tube and forward me a link and some band info. I quite simply can't thank you enough. I Love Live Rock!!!

Apathy by Byron Bay Band
Here we have a demo done on a budget! These fellows are composed and know their chops. Notice there is no show boating going on here. Like a well coached basketball squad these guys are team players. The result is a simple tune that is woven into a complex listening experience. A rock band is actually an electrified scaled down orchestra. Every instrument/instrument group has their own individual parts to play. With proper execution, a sonic symphony is the result. I have a hunch that this group of musicians with time, will be able to compose music that will take to the charts! Sorry to say that Google came up with squat for info on this group.We all lose!

Girls Just Wanna Have Fun by Cyndi Lauper
The time is 1987. On stage at the Zenith in Paris, Cyndi has all the fun a girl could ever ask for right on stage in front of thousands of adoring fans! This talented performer has a persona that makes you want to smile and hug every girl in sight. She gives me goosebumps! What a Cutie! She finished up a worldwide tour last year and has no dates on her schedule this year. Cyndi's Home Page will keep you informed.

Time After Time by Stephanie Calvert
Cover of Cyndi Lauper's hit single from a recently discovered rising star. Stephanie's career has gone from what you see here to front woman and co-singer with Mickey Thomas and Starship! Her band here is very tight and her voice got her noticed to say the least. Her dreams are modest though, she say's on her Home Page that she only wants to sing the National Anthem at a Yankee's game. How's that for an all american girl?

We Built This City by Jefferson Starship
This concert was in Tampa Florida back in "85 when hair was meant to be seen not cut! Grace Slick and Mickey Thomas fronted this reorganized Jefferson Airplane from the from the 60's and 70's into what today is known as Starship. Mickey has teamed up with singer Stephanie Calvert and has taken yet another band rebirth on the road. Grace has retired from music and is painting portraits and landscapes now. She can afford to retire...Jefferson Airplane was the highest paid band back in the days of free love. And that's a fact. Starship's Home Page.

Lookin' For A Love by J Geils
This vintage 1979 footage was taken at the Rockpalast and broadcast live on German TV. I was and still am a huge fan of this band. Front man Peter Wolf could work a crowd like few others. This tune was one of their best of many hits! I was fortunate to have seen them live at the Binghamton Arena back when they were all over the charts with hit after hit. If you want to see an old website unaltered since 1999, check out their Home Page. This is why I urge you to see your favorite bands while you can!!!

Must Have Got Lost by Peter Wolf
J Geils front man Peter Wolf giving an intimate performance in a small tent at what appears to be a wedding! I'd say less than a hundred people are there. I love this J Geils tune. Peter has toured as recently as last year. He was the # 1 front man of his day. He still has that stage presence, Keep up with Peter at his Home Page and hope for some live appearances.

La Grange by ZZ Top
The Texas Trio will be on European Tour the end of May through June. That is it for official tour info. This little nugget was recorded the end of December '08. These guys never cease to amaze me! The fullest sounding 3 piece group that I know of. One tough act to beat! If you haven't seen ZZ Top Live you need to go soon. Keep up with the latest at their Home Page.

Brass in Pocket by Nikki Neretin
Cover tune of Chrissie Hynde and the Pretenders classic hit. Live from New York Nikki does a fine job with this timeless gem of a song. Sadly there no dates or performance information at this time on her Home Page. She's busy raising a family, lets hope she finds time to appear live. Visit her site and listen to her original tune "One Love". Its very good!

Reason To Fly by Dan England
Requested by jong4u. Thanks for bringing this talented Australian Idol Star to my attention. I wish he had a "live" video available but this is pretty close and I know you will enjoy this catchy make you wanna get up and dance song. It has all the elements necessary to be a hit single! Dan is touring at home in Australia right now. Hope he will come to the US. Take a look at his Home Page.

Tend My Garden by The James Gang
I missed out on this reunited James Gang tour back in '07. Maybe you were lucky enough to have seen them. Band Founder/Drummer Jimmy Fox reunites with original band mate Joe Walsh. 40 years ago Joe reportedly knocked on Jimmy's apartment door and said "I hear you're lookin' for a guitar player". The rest was history. I have a hunch there might be future performances down the road. Stay tuned on their Home Page.

Get Over It by The Eagles
The old lineup has been touring live on the road for some time now. They have found new fans on the country charts but they're still Rock and Roll to me. I'm on a Joe Walsh binge right now. Joe is on tour with with his own band as well as the Eagles. Is that stage hungry or what? This tune Rocks with that Live Eagle Energy! Find an appearance near you at their Home Page.

Rocky Mountain Way by Walsh, Starr, Helm and Clemens
All Star performance with Joe Walsh's Classic Rock Standard. Legendary singer, songwriter, guitarist Joe Walsh started his professional career with The James Gang nearly 40 years ago. Later, with The Eagles, record breaking hits and sold out performances flowed for years. Here is a well dressed performance of one of my favorite tunes! Joe is on tour now and requests you attend at a venue near you. Event schedule on his Home Page.

Shake by Florida Straits Band
Clarence Clemons sits in at a small tavern. I'm wondering if the bar patrons realize the Worlds Most Recognized Sax Player is sweating out a world class live performance while they chit chat, dance and drink beer!!! Lucky People. Mr. Clemens of E-Street Band with Bruce Springsteen played to their largest audience ever with their half time performance at this years Superbowl!!! What a contrast in venue. Enjoy this rare performance. No web page for this group. Shame!

I'm On Fire by Bruce Springsteen
Live from London Emirates Stadium. Some lucky fans get a closeup intimate performance by the "Boss". From New Jersey Boardwalk to sold out international performances, Bruce made the lime light long ago and is still going strong to this day. With his legendary lineup in The E-Street Band he brings energy to the stage like no one else. Check tour dates on his Home Page and get your tickets!!!

The Chicken by WonderBread Band
Nice arrangement on this instrumental classic. Some smooth Jazz/Rock playing from this tight Florida group. If I only had a quarter for every time I jammed along on this song. I never took the time on licks, hooks, and kicks like these these musicians have. Nice job, well done! They can be seen live if you live in the Sunshine State. Check their Home Page for listings.

12 Bars Of Trouble by Lynsey Dolan
Rock and Roll is the only way to describe this tune! Why can't I find a girl like Lynsey that can front a band like a seasoned pro? I have a boy girl crush on this phenomenal Scottish Country Girl. If her keyboard player quits, I'm on a plane to an audition pronto! Keep writing Lynsey, I'll buy all you've got. Great voice, style and energy! Can I get you to come to New York? Her Home Page here.

Reverend Deadeye's No Man Gospel Band
Don't miss this crazed talented ball of fire one man band!!! Percussion, harmonica and guitar with soul filled vocals performed with heart and passion. I'm shell shocked, deer in the headlights, duck soup dumbfounded. Southern Cajun Blues might describe him, I'm at a loss for words on this posting. Check out the dog at the end of this video. I think he wanted to leave a tip! Funny! He's performing in the US through April, then off on a month long busy European tour. He's sure to win many fans, I'm one more already! Home Page.

Relentless by Destruction Evolution
Southern Metal is how this band describes itself. I'm reminded of Black Sabbath with this catchy crunchy song played at Scout Bar in San Antonio, Texas. Lead singer "Sin" has a unique voice and vocal style all his own. Some difficult timing on this number executed flawlessly. I could get addicted to these guys. Lots more info on their Home Page.