“Some band members initially reluctant to perform ’70s hit song that became a classic”
The inaugural Monsters Of Rock festival took place on August 16, 1980, at Donington Park in Leicestershire. The event showcased a lineup headlined by Rainbow, along with other notable acts such as Judas Priest, Scorpions, Saxon, and April Wine.
The festival was a significant moment in the history of rock music, as it marked the beginning of an era where large-scale rock concerts became more commonplace. With an attendance of over 35,000 fans, Monsters Of Rock set the stage for future festivals to follow.
One of the standout performances of the day came from Rainbow, led by legendary guitarist Ritchie Blackmore. The band delivered a powerful set that left a lasting impression on the audience and cemented their status as one of the premier acts in the genre.
Judas Priest also delivered a memorable performance, showcasing their trademark heavy metal sound and energetic stage presence. The band’s performance at Monsters Of Rock helped solidify their reputation as one of the leading bands in the metal scene.
The festival also featured Scorpions, who brought their brand of melodic hard rock to the stage. With hits like “Rock You Like a Hurricane” and “No One Like You,” the band had the crowd on their feet and singing along to their anthemic tunes.
Saxon and April Wine rounded out the lineup, adding their own unique sounds to the festival. Saxon’s blistering heavy metal assault and April Wine’s melodic rock stylings provided a diverse range of music for attendees to enjoy.
Overall, the first Monsters Of Rock festival was a resounding success, setting the stage for future editions of the event to come. With its stellar lineup of iconic rock acts and enthusiastic audience, the festival proved that there was a strong demand for large-scale rock concerts in the UK.
In the years that followed, Monsters Of Rock would continue to grow and evolve, showcasing some of the biggest names in rock and metal music. The festival became a staple of the summer concert season, attracting thousands of fans from across the country and beyond.
While the original Monsters Of Rock festival may have been over 40 years ago, its impact on the music world can still be felt today. The event helped popularize the concept of large outdoor rock festivals and set a high standard for future events to aspire to.
As music fans look back on the historic first Monsters Of Rock festival, they can appreciate the groundbreaking nature of the event and the lasting legacy it has left on the world of rock music.