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MC5

Live Performances by MC5 in 1970

  • In January 1970, when MC5 performed "It's a Man's Man's Man's World" live, they were riding high on the success of their debut album, "Kick Out the Ja... Read Full Description >

    In January 1970, when MC5 performed "It's a Man's Man's Man's World" live, they were riding high on the success of their debut album, "Kick Out the Jams," which was released in 1969. This live performance took place shortly before the release of their second album, "Back in the U.S.A.," later in 1970, showcasing their high-energy, politically charged sound that was a hallmark of their early career. The MC5 were known for their radical political views and connections to the counterculture movement of the 1960s, notably performing at the Democratic National Convention in 1968. Their live shows were explosive, often featuring extended jams and feedback-laden guitar work, epitomizing the proto-punk aesthetic they helped to pioneer. This performance is a testament to their raw power and the passionate following they garnered during this pivotal time in rock history.

  • In early January 1970, MC5 was riding high on the momentum generated by their debut album, "Kick Out the Jams," which had been released in 1969. This ... Read Full Description >

    In early January 1970, MC5 was riding high on the momentum generated by their debut album, "Kick Out the Jams," which had been released in 1969. This live performance, captured in the video "MC5 Looking At You 'Lively Spot,'" showcases the band at a pivotal moment in their career, reflecting their raw energy and powerful stage presence. Just prior to this recording, they had gained considerable attention for their revolutionary approach to rock music, merging hard rock with political activism, embodied in their infamous call to action in the title track of their debut. Their rise to fame was marked by their association with the counterculture movement and their support for social change. This performance is significant as it illustrates MC5's commitment to their revolutionary ethos, presenting a band that was not only a musical force but also a cultural icon during a tumultuous period in American history.

MC5 Live Performance at Tartar Field, Wayne State University, Detroit

Tartar Field, Wayne State University
Detroit, MI, United States

July 7, 1970 | Video Length: 12:12
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  • In the summer of 1970, MC5 was in a pivotal stage of their career following the release of their influential album "Kick Out the Jams" in 1969. This l... Read Full Description >

    In the summer of 1970, MC5 was in a pivotal stage of their career following the release of their influential album "Kick Out the Jams" in 1969. This live recording from July 7, 1970, at Wayne State University captures their raw energy and political fervor during a performance reflective of the tumultuous environment of the era. Having already made a significant impact with their provocative sound and revolutionary message, this performance showcased the band's commitment to their radical ideals, including their participation in the political movements of the time. Notably, the "Kick Out the Jams" album is recognized for its groundbreaking live recording style and for being one of the albums that helped define the punk rock movement that would follow. The band's live shows were known for their dynamic presentation and outrageous stage personas, factors that contributed to their growing notoriety within the music scene.

MC5 Live Performance of 'Looking At You' at Tartar Field, Detroit

Tartar Field / Wayne State University
Detroit, MI, United States

July 19, 1970 | Video Length: 4:18
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  • In July 1970, when MC5 performed "Looking At You" at Tartar Field on the Wayne State University campus, the band was riding high on the momentum from ... Read Full Description >

    In July 1970, when MC5 performed "Looking At You" at Tartar Field on the Wayne State University campus, the band was riding high on the momentum from their influential debut album, "Kick Out the Jams," released in 1969. This album was groundbreaking for its raw energy and politically charged lyrics, becoming a staple of the countercultural movement. The live performance at Wayne State further solidified their reputation as a powerful force in rock music and as pioneers of the proto-punk sound. Notably, "Kick Out the Jams" was recorded live and exuded the same fierce vitality that MC5 brought to their live shows, making their performances legendary. The band's alignment with the anti-establishment ethos and their passionate stage presence attracted significant attention, both positive and negative, reflecting the tumultuous socio-political climate of the time. This performance is a vivid snapshot of a band in their prime as they sought to push boundaries and inspire change through their

MC5 - Kick Out The Jams Live Performance at Tartar Field, Detroit

Tartar Field
Detroit, MI, USA

August 8, 1970 | Video Length: 3:20
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  • In August 1970, when MC5 performed "Kick Out The Jams" at Tartar Field in Detroit, they were riding a wave of revolutionary fervor and artistic ambiti... Read Full Description >

    In August 1970, when MC5 performed "Kick Out The Jams" at Tartar Field in Detroit, they were riding a wave of revolutionary fervor and artistic ambition. This performance came shortly after the release of their debut album, "Kick Out the Jams," which was released in February 1969. The album's raw energy and political lyrics made it a rallying cry for the counterculture movement of the time, reflecting the band's commitment to not only rock music but also social and political change. The live recording at Tartar Field itself became emblematic of the band's alignment with the radical spirit of the era. Interestingly, the performance is noted for its unfiltered energy, featuring the now-iconic phrase "Kick out the jams, motherf***ers!" which crystallized their ethos as performers who sought to challenge societal norms and provoke thought through their music. This moment solidified MC5 as a seminal force in the evolution of punk rock and countercultural expression.