MC5

FRED SMITH & WAYNE KRAMER LIVE 1972 - Full Concert

• In January 1972, when the live recording featuring Fred Smith and Wayne Kramer occurred, MC5 was navigating a pivotal moment in their career. Followin... Read Full Description >

  In January 1972, when the live recording featuring Fred Smith and Wayne Kramer occurred, MC5 was navigating a pivotal moment in their career. Following the release of their second album, "Back in the USA," in 1970, the band was experiencing a shift in their musical direction. This album marked a departure from their earlier, more radical sound, moving towards a more mainstream rock approach while still retaining their garage rock roots. The live performance captured in this video showcases their energetic stage presence and commitment to high-octane rock 'n' roll. During this period, MC5 were also struggling with internal conflicts and external pressures, including their relationship with their management and the music industry's changing landscape. This live recording illustrates the band's determination to maintain their identity and connect with audiences amid these challenges.

MC5 Live Performance of 'Tonight' at Friars Aylesbury

Friars Aylesbury Phase Two Borough Assembly Hall
Aylesbury, UK

• In February 1972, when MC5 performed at the Friars Aylesbury, they were in a transitional phase following their release of the album "High Time," whic... Read Full Description >

  In February 1972, when MC5 performed at the Friars Aylesbury, they were in a transitional phase following their release of the album "High Time," which came out in 1971. This album marked a significant moment as it was their last studio album before they disbanded in 1972. "High Time" showcased their raw energy and political messages, which aligned well with the vibrant live performances they were known for, like the one captured in Aylesbury. Interestingly, the MC5 were known for their radical political views and involvement with the White Panther Party, which influenced not only their music but also their stage presence. The performance at this UK venue reflected their status as a cult favorite, known for their high-octane shows and commitment to musical innovation.

MC5 Live Performance of 'Kick Out The Jams' at Friars Aylesbury

Friars Aylesbury Phase Two Borough Assembly Hall
Aylesbury, UK

• On February 11, 1972, the MC5 performed at the Friars Aylesbury, a notable venue in the UK, showcasing their explosive live energy. Prior to this reco... Read Full Description >

  On February 11, 1972, the MC5 performed at the Friars Aylesbury, a notable venue in the UK, showcasing their explosive live energy. Prior to this recording, the MC5 had released their iconic debut album "Kick Out the Jams" in 1969, which propelled them into the spotlight and established them as a pioneering force in the garage rock and punk scenes. By 1972, the MC5 were transitioning their sound and image, experimenting with more complex arrangements and political themes, which were evident in their subsequent releases. This period also marked a peak in their live performance reputation, as the band's raw sound and fervent stage presence captivated audiences. Interestingly, their live performances often included inciting messages of rebellion, reflecting their ideals and connection to the counterculture movements of the time. The Aylesbury show was part of an important European tour that sought to expand their influence and fan base beyond the United States.

MC5 - Full Concert Live in Finland featuring 'Kick Out the Jams'

Kulttuuralo
Helsinki, Finland

• By November 1972, MC5 was in the midst of their career's peak, performing live shortly after the release of their seminal album "High Time" earlier th... Read Full Description >

  By November 1972, MC5 was in the midst of their career's peak, performing live shortly after the release of their seminal album "High Time" earlier that same year. This album followed their influential debut, "Kick Out the Jams," and showcased their evolving sound blending hard rock with punk and political commentary. The live recording from Helsinki captures MC5 at a time when they were known for their energetic performances and radical activism, exemplified by their calls for social change. Interestingly, the band was associated with the White Panther Party, which further highlighted their countercultural ethos. This concert features classic tracks like "Ramblin' Rose" and "Kick Out the Jams," encapsulating the raw energy that defined their live shows. However, "High Time" was ultimately their last studio album, as internal challenges and shifts in the music scene soon led to their decline.

MC5 - Gloria Live Performance at Kulttuuritalo, Helsinki, Finland

Kulttuuritalo
Helsinki, Finland

• By November 17, 1972, when MC5 performed live in Helsinki, Finland, the band was at a pivotal point in their career. They had released their second st... Read Full Description >

  By November 17, 1972, when MC5 performed live in Helsinki, Finland, the band was at a pivotal point in their career. They had released their second studio album, "High Time," earlier that year, which showcased their evolving sound and commitment to hard rock and political themes, despite receiving mixed critical reception compared to their groundbreaking debut, "Kick Out the Jams." The live recording captures the intensity and raw energy characteristic of their performances during this period, as they sought to connect with their audience on sociopolitical issues. Notably, the MC5 were known for their radical embrace of countercultural ideals, and this concert in Finland was part of an international tour that reflected their desire to spread their message beyond American borders. Their appearance at Kulttuuritalo, a venue with a rich musical history, further underscores their influence and ambition as they navigated the complexities of the music industry.

MC5 Live Performance of 'Kick Out The Jams' at Grande Ballroom, Detroit

Grande Ballroom
Detroit, MI, United States

• The live recording of "Kick Out The Jams" on December 31, 1972, captures MC5 at a pivotal moment in their career. By this time, they had released thei... Read Full Description >

  The live recording of "Kick Out The Jams" on December 31, 1972, captures MC5 at a pivotal moment in their career. By this time, they had released their iconic debut album, "Kick Out the Jams," in 1969, which is pivotal in the development of punk rock. The song itself became a rallying cry, representing not just the band's musical prowess but also their alignment with counterculture movements. The Grande Ballroom in Detroit, often considered a vital venue for the band's performances, served as a backdrop for their explosive energy and revolutionary spirit. Additionally, they played a significant role in promoting the riots of social change during the late 1960s and early 1970s, fusing their music with political activism. By the time of this recording, MC5 was solidifying its influence within the music scene, but they were also facing challenges that would eventually lead to changes in their lineup and sound in the years that followed.

MC5 - Kick Out The Jams Live at Grande Ballroom in Detroit

Grande Ballroom
Detroit, MI, USA

• The live performance captured in the video "MC5 - Kick Out The Jams - 2nd version (1972)" took place on December 31, 1972, at the Grande Ballroom in D... Read Full Description >

  The live performance captured in the video "MC5 - Kick Out The Jams - 2nd version (1972)" took place on December 31, 1972, at the Grande Ballroom in Detroit. By this time, MC5 had already released their groundbreaking debut album "Kick Out the Jams" in 1969, which is notable for its raw energy and political themes and is considered a major influence on the punk rock movement. The live recording represents a period of transition for the band, as they were navigating the complexities of fame and the music industry while continuing to push the boundaries of rock music. Interestingly, during their early performances, MC5 was known for their incendiary shows and political activism, reflecting the counterculture of the era. By 1972, they had transitioned from underground pioneers to a more mainstream audience, but tensions within the band and challenges with their label foreshadowed the struggles they would face in the years following this live recording.