MC5

MC5 Live at Westfield High School - Full Concert Including 'Kick Out The Jams'

Westfield High School
Westfield, NJ, United States

• On October 3, 1969, MC5 performed a live set at Westfield High School, showcasing their electrifying brand of proto-punk rock. This performance occurr... Read Full Description >

  On October 3, 1969, MC5 performed a live set at Westfield High School, showcasing their electrifying brand of proto-punk rock. This performance occurred shortly after the band released their iconic debut album, "Kick Out the Jams," in February 1969. The album is well-known for its raw energy and revolutionary spirit, encapsulated by its title track, which they famously saved for the end of their high school set. During this period, MC5 was rapidly gaining recognition for their political activism and dynamic stage presence, aligning with the counterculture movement of the late 1960s. Notably, their live performances were characterized by passionate and often improvisational elements, setting them apart from many contemporaries, making this recording a significant snapshot of their explosive live energy just as they began to solidify their legacy in rock music.

MC5 Live Performance of 'Kick Out The Jams' in Detroit

Detroit, MI, United States

• In October 1969, when MC5 performed "Kick Out The Jams" in Detroit, they were at a pivotal point in their career following the release of their debut ... Read Full Description >

  In October 1969, when MC5 performed "Kick Out The Jams" in Detroit, they were at a pivotal point in their career following the release of their debut album, also titled "Kick Out The Jams," earlier that same year. The album was significant as it became emblematic of the radical sound and political stance of the band, mixing garage rock with elements of avant-garde jazz and free-form philosophy. This live performance is particularly notable as it captures the energy of their groundbreaking sound and the rawness of live rock music at that time. The recording illustrates the band's commitment to their anti-establishment message, reflected in the opening lines of the song with the iconic phrase "kick out the jams, motherfuckers!" This performance solidified their reputation in the counterculture movement of the late 1960s and showcased their influence on future punk rock artists.

MC5 Live in Detroit Performing 'Ramblin' Rose' - High Quality Concert Recording

Detroit, MI, United States

• In November 1969, during the time of the live recording of "Ramblin' Rose" in Detroit, MC5 was on the cusp of significant acclaim following the releas... Read Full Description >

  In November 1969, during the time of the live recording of "Ramblin' Rose" in Detroit, MC5 was on the cusp of significant acclaim following the release of their debut album, *Kick Out the Jams*, which had come out earlier that year. This album was pivotal in establishing their reputation as one of the leading figures in the protopunk movement, known for its raw energy and politically charged content. By this point in their career, MC5 was gaining a reputation for their explosive live performances and their fervent political activism, reflected in their performances and commentary. The "Ramblin' Rose" performance showcased their powerful stage presence, with the band donning casual street attire that resonated with their image as rebels of rock music. This live show is not only a testament to their musical talent but also a cornerstone of their legacy as pioneers of the counterculture movement in late 1960s America.

MC5 Live Performance of 'Kick Out The Jams' in Detroit

Detroit, MI, United States

• In November 1969, when MC5 recorded their iconic live performance of "Kick Out the Jams" in Detroit, they had just released their debut album, "Kick O... Read Full Description >

  In November 1969, when MC5 recorded their iconic live performance of "Kick Out the Jams" in Detroit, they had just released their debut album, "Kick Out the Jams," a few months earlier, in February 1969. This album was groundbreaking, both musically and culturally, as it embodied the raw energy of the late 1960s counterculture and was one of the first live albums to gain significant critical acclaim. The performance showcased the band's explosive sound and rebellious spirit, serving as a rallying cry for a generation. Notably, the live album's title track became synonymous with the band's ethos, featuring the now-infamous chant, "Kick out the jams, motherfuckers!" This performance exemplified not only their commitment to pushing musical boundaries but also their role as pioneers of the proto-punk movement, influencing countless artists to follow.