History

Plymouth's Music Scene History

Plymouth has a rich and diverse musical history, with a vibrant music scene that has been capturing the hearts and minds of audiences for decades. From its early beginnings, Plymouth was known for its love of music and its vibrant nightlife, with local pubs and clubs playing host to an array of local and touring artists.

In the 1960s, Plymouth was a hotbed of musical activity, attracting some of the biggest names in music at the time. The Beatles performed in the city three times, first in 1963 and 1964 at the old ABC cinema, and finally in 1967 while they were filming the Magical Mystery Tour. Their appearance in Plymouth was a testament to the city's love of music and its position as a thriving hub of cultural activity.

The city also played a significant role in the punk rock movement of the 1970s, with legendary acts such as The Sex Pistols, The Clash, Johnny Thunders, and The Damned all playing in Plymouth. Despite being banned from almost all venues in the country, Plymouth opened its doors to these punk icons and played host to two memorable performances as part of the Anarchy Tour in 1977.

As the music scene evolved, Plymouth continued to attract some of the biggest names in rock and roll. Led Zeppelin played in the city in 1969, just two months after releasing their first record and less than six months after changing their name from The New Yardbirds. In the 1990s, Radiohead brought their unique brand of alternative rock to Plymouth, with two memorable performances in the city.

More recently, Plymouth has continued to be a destination for music lovers, with artists such as Oasis, David Bowie, and Coldplay all performing in the city. In 2002, the Gallagher brothers brought their iconic sound to Plymouth, playing at the Pavilions on their Heathen Chemistry tour.

Today, Plymouth's music scene continues to thrive, with a thriving community of musicians, venues, and fans who are dedicated to preserving and celebrating the city's rich musical heritage. Whether you're a lifelong music fan or just discovering the scene for the first time, Plymouth has something to offer for everyone, and its history is a testament to its ongoing role as a hub of musical activity and cultural innovation.

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