Aerosmith celebrates 50+ years since debut LP with expanded ‘Legendary Edition’ reissue
Aerosmith is celebrating the 50+ years since the release of its debut LP by launching an expansive ‘Legendary Edition’ reissue of the self-titled album from 1973. Scheduled to be released on March 20 in various formats, the original album reached No. 21 in 1973 and went on to achieve double-platinum status, marking the start of a legendary career in hard rock that would span decades.
The reissue is centered around brand-new 2024 updates of the original album, featuring a remaster and a fresh remix supervised by Steven Tyler and Joe Perry, the band’s co-founders. Working in collaboration with producer and mixer Zakk Cervini, the duo aimed to present their raw and unfiltered creative vision of the record. The ‘Legendary Edition’ will be available in multiple formats, including a 3-CD set, single CD, digital edition, 1-LP black vinyl, 1-LP color vinyl, a 4-LP slipcase, and a deluxe 5-LP box set. The three-disc edition includes the remaster and remix along with a complete disc of rare materials, while vinyl enthusiasts will be treated to an in-depth collection.
A standout feature of the reissue is a vintage concert recording from March 20, 1972, captured at Paul’s Mall in Boston. This 11-song performance includes early live versions of “Make It” and “Mama Kin,” as well as covers like “Mother Popcorn” and “Train Kept A Rollin’” that would become concert staples for the band (notably missing from the setlist is their debut single, “Dream On”). The bonus content also includes six tracks from late-1972 studio sessions that influenced the original album, such as alternate and rehearsal recordings of “Make It” and “Write Me a Letter,” as well as two in-studio jams titled “Harmonica Bass Jam Jelly (Session Take)” and “Joined at the Hip (Aerojam),” which features a snippet of “Sweet Emotion.”
For enthusiasts looking for a more extensive experience, the 5-LP box set offers an exclusive clear UV cloud-effect 12-inch featuring both 2024 versions of “Dream On.” It also includes a 3D pop-up diorama, a hardcover book packed with rare photos, new liner notes by Rick Florino, interviews with the original five members, and tributes from artists such as Dolly Parton, Corey Taylor of Slipknot, Mike McCready of Pearl Jam, Jerry Cantrell of Alice In Chains, Chris Robinson of The Black Crowes, Slash of Guns N’ Roses, and Sully Erna of Godsmack. A fold-out poster and sticker sheet complete the special box set package.
Fans eager to secure their copy can now preorder the ‘Legendary Edition’ reissue to ensure they don’t miss out on the opportunity to own this extraordinary piece of music history.