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The Kinks

Live Performances by The Kinks

The Kinks Perform 'You Really Got Me' on The Beat Room Show

The Beat Room

January 1, 1964 | Video Length: 2:13
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  • On January 1, 1964, The Kinks performed "You Really Got Me" on "The Beat Room," a significant moment in their early career when they were quickly gain... Read Full Description >

    On January 1, 1964, The Kinks performed "You Really Got Me" on "The Beat Room," a significant moment in their early career when they were quickly gaining traction in the British rock scene. This live recording occurred shortly after the release of their self-titled debut album, "The Kinks," which had come out in March 1964 and featured their breakthrough hit "You Really Got Me." The song, characterized by its iconic riff and Ray Davies' distinctive vocal style, helped propel the band to fame, becoming a defining anthem of the era. Interestingly, this performance showcased the raw energy of the band during their formative years, capturing the excitement of a band on the brink of becoming rock icons. Following this period, The Kinks would go on to explore more ambitious musical styles, cementing their legacy in the rock genre.


  • In early 1965, The Kinks were riding the wave of success from their hit single "You Really Got Me," which had been released in August 1964 and signifi... Read Full Description >

    In early 1965, The Kinks were riding the wave of success from their hit single "You Really Got Me," which had been released in August 1964 and significantly influenced the rock landscape. The live recording of "All Day and All of the Night," captured on January 1, 1965, showcases the band's energetic performance style during this peak period of their early career. After "You Really Got Me," the band continued to solidify their presence in the music scene with the release of their album "Kinda Kinks" in late 1965. Notably, this album included “All Day and All of the Night,” further demonstrating the band's knack for producing catchy, enduring tracks. The Kinks were distinguished by their unique sound, characterized by Ray Davies' clever songwriting and Dave Davies' innovative guitar work, setting them apart from their contemporaries in the burgeoning British Invasion.

The Kinks - I'm Not Like Everybody Else (Live Performance)

Netherlands

April 1, 1967 | Video Length: 5:43
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  • In April 1967, The Kinks were a pivotal band navigating the establishment of their sound and identity in the rock genre, having released their influen... Read Full Description >

    In April 1967, The Kinks were a pivotal band navigating the establishment of their sound and identity in the rock genre, having released their influential album "Face to Face" in October 1966. This album marked a significant departure from their earlier work, embracing more complex themes and diverse musical styles. The live recording of "I'm Not Like Everybody Else," presumably tied to a Dutch TV appearance, showcases the band's evolving artistic vision and their growing prominence in the music scene. Notably, this era was characterized by tensions within the band and issues with their management, particularly when they were controversially banned from touring the United States. Such challenges only amplified their distinct style and broader fanbase as they continued to innovate and shape the landscape of rock music. The performance captures a raw energy that reflects both the band's signature sound and the burgeoning creativity of the late 1960s.

The Kinks - Apeman Performance from 1970 Concert

January 1, 1970 | Video Length: 3:42
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  • In January 1970, during a transitional phase in their career, The Kinks were riding high on the success of their album *Arthur (Or the Decline and Fal... Read Full Description >

    In January 1970, during a transitional phase in their career, The Kinks were riding high on the success of their album *Arthur (Or the Decline and Fall of the British Empire)*, released in October 1969. This album was a concept piece that reflected 1960s British culture and the complexities of modern life, showcasing the band's signature blend of social commentary and melodic rock. The live performance of "Apeman," which appears to be an early tribute to the forthcoming album *Muswell Hillbillies* (released in 1971), exemplifies The Kinks' ability to evolve their sound while maintaining their distinctive storytelling approach. Notably, this time period saw the band embracing a more Americana-inspired sound, coupled with humorous lyrics that often critiqued societal norms, reflecting their ongoing innovation and relevance in the rock scene.

The Kinks Perform 'Lola' at Top Of The Pops

Top Of The Pops

January 1, 1970 | Video Length: 3:56
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  • In January 1970, during the time of their performance of "Lola" on *Top of the Pops*, The Kinks were experiencing a significant resurgence in their ca... Read Full Description >

    In January 1970, during the time of their performance of "Lola" on *Top of the Pops*, The Kinks were experiencing a significant resurgence in their career. This performance marked the promotion of their album *Lola vs. Powerman and the Moneygoround, Part One*, which was released later that year in November. "Lola," one of their defining hits, showcased the band's clever storytelling and musical versatility. Intriguingly, the song reflects themes of gender identity and attraction, which were quite bold for its time. The Kinks had faced a turbulent period in the years leading up to this, including a temporary ban from performing in the United States, but were reclaiming their status as influential rock musicians with this new material. The televised performance helped to solidify "Lola" in the cultural zeitgeist and marked a creative peak that would propel them through the early 1970s.

  • In January 1972, The Kinks were in a period of revitalization, having released their album "Lola Versus Powerman and the Moneygoround, Part One" in No... Read Full Description >

    In January 1972, The Kinks were in a period of revitalization, having released their album "Lola Versus Powerman and the Moneygoround, Part One" in November 1970 and their subsequent work "Muswell Hillbillies" in 1971. The live recording of "Victoria," performed during this time, showcases the band's blend of rock and theatrical elements, which became a hallmark of their style. "Lola Versus Powerman" marked a significant point in their career, illustrating their experiences in the music industry and addressing themes of fame and commercialization. This era also saw the Kinks transitioning from their earlier pop roots to more sophisticated, narrative-driven songwriting, which is evident in the performance of "Victoria," a song that pays homage to British culture. The band's music in this phase garnered critical acclaim, despite facing significant challenges, including a temporary ban from performing in the United States.

  • In January 1973, The Kinks were promoting their recently released album "Lola versus Powerman and the Moneygoround, Part One," which came out in Novem... Read Full Description >

    In January 1973, The Kinks were promoting their recently released album "Lola versus Powerman and the Moneygoround, Part One," which came out in November 1970. This live recording captures the band during a transitional phase, as they were gradually gaining recognition in the United States following a period of greater success in the UK. By this point in their career, they had begun to embrace a more theatrical approach to their performances, which is reflected in the engaging energy of the concert. Interestingly, their work during this era often highlighted themes of English life and culture, contributing to their growing reputation as pioneers of the British rock movement. The live show firmly captures the Kinks' signature mix of rock and witty social commentary, showcasing their unique place in the music landscape of the early 1970s.

  • In March 1973, The Kinks were in a transitional phase of their career, having recently released *Muswell Hillbillies* in late 1971. This album, charac... Read Full Description >

    In March 1973, The Kinks were in a transitional phase of their career, having recently released *Muswell Hillbillies* in late 1971. This album, characterized by a blend of rock and traditional British music influences, represented a shift towards a more eclectic sound. By the time of the live recording of "Dedicated Follower of Fashion," the band was continuing to evolve their music and style, which reflected their roots and the changing landscape of rock music. The performance, noted for its casual and humorous tone—as indicated by the quote "let's have a laugh, no one's here for art"—showcases the band's impressive ability to engage with their audience while maintaining a lighthearted approach. During this period, The Kinks were also facing various challenges, including infighting and a fluctuating lineup, yet they managed to produce memorable performances that resonated with fans.

  • In May 1973, when The Kinks performed "Waterloo Sunset" live in London, they were experiencing a period of creative resurgence after facing various ch... Read Full Description >

    In May 1973, when The Kinks performed "Waterloo Sunset" live in London, they were experiencing a period of creative resurgence after facing various challenges earlier in their career. The band's prior studio effort was 1971's "Muswell Hillbillies," which showcased a more eclectic and personal style, reflecting their British roots and storytelling prowess. The live performance at this time highlighted not just their well-established catalog but also their ability to connect with the audience through nostalgic hits like "Waterloo Sunset," originally released on the acclaimed 1967 album "Something Else by The Kinks." This song is actively celebrated, having been included in Rolling Stone's list of the 500 greatest songs of all time. The 1973 concert captures The Kinks in a revitalized light, marking a decade of their influential sound within the evolving music scene.

You Really Got Me Performance by The Kinks | The Midnight Special

The Midnight Special Studios
Los Angeles, CA, United States

June 7, 1974 | Video Length: 2:56
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  • The Kinks performed "You Really Got Me" on June 7, 1974, during an appearance on "The Midnight Special." At this time, they were enjoying a resurgence... Read Full Description >

    The Kinks performed "You Really Got Me" on June 7, 1974, during an appearance on "The Midnight Special." At this time, they were enjoying a resurgence in their career, having recently released the album "Muswell Hillbillies" in 1971, which marked a shift toward a more Americana-influenced sound. Their prior work, such as "Lola Versus Powerman and the Moneygoround, Part One" (1970), solidified their status as influential rock artists, especially with the hit single "Lola." Notably, the live performance on "The Midnight Special" showcased their dynamic stage presence and ability to connect with the audience. This period in their career was significant as it demonstrated their versatility and the evolution of their musical style, while they were also experimenting with themes that reflected their British roots and social commentary.

  • In April 1977, The Kinks were in a period marked by both creative evolution and a resurgence in popularity. This live recording of "Celluloid Heroes" ... Read Full Description >

    In April 1977, The Kinks were in a period marked by both creative evolution and a resurgence in popularity. This live recording of "Celluloid Heroes" was part of their promotional efforts for the album “Sleepwalker,” which had been released in 1977, just ahead of this performance. The song itself, "Celluloid Heroes," originally appeared on the 1972 album “Everybody's in Show-Biz,” reflecting the band's ongoing exploration of themes related to the entertainment industry and nostalgia. By this time, The Kinks had transitioned through various musical styles, and their participation in iconic television programs like "Whistle Test" showcased their continued relevance in the rock scene. The performance not only highlighted the band's signature storytelling through music but also demonstrated their ability to adapt to the changing landscape of rock music in the late 1970s.

  • In December 1977, The Kinks were in a particularly dynamic phase of their career, fresh off the 1977 album "Sleepwalker." This record featured a more ... Read Full Description >

    In December 1977, The Kinks were in a particularly dynamic phase of their career, fresh off the 1977 album "Sleepwalker." This record featured a more polished sound, showcasing their ability to adapt to the changing musical landscape of the late 1970s while retaining their unique style. Live performances during this era, such as the Christmas concert for the "Old Grey Whistle Test" at the Rainbow Theatre, highlighted their energetic stage presence and solidified their reputation as a formidable live act. Interestingly, the band's performance of "Alcohol" during this concert captured both their humorous and introspective lyricism, exemplifying the blend of rock and societal commentary that they were known for. By this time, the Kinks had experienced various shifts in their lineup and style, but they continued to influence the rock genre significantly with their distinctive sound and songwriting prowess.

The Kinks - Celluloid Heroes (Live Performance at Volkshaus, Zürich)

Volkshaus
Zürich, Switzerland

November 1, 1979 | Video Length: 7:23
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  • In November 1979, The Kinks performed "Celluloid Heroes" live at Volkshaus in Zürich, Switzerland, during a pivotal moment in their career. This perf... Read Full Description >

    In November 1979, The Kinks performed "Celluloid Heroes" live at Volkshaus in Zürich, Switzerland, during a pivotal moment in their career. This performance was part of the tour promoting their 1980 live album "One for the Road," which captured the band's vibrant live energy and showcased their enduring rock sound. Prior to this, their 1978 studio album "Misfits" marked a transitional phase for the band, embracing new musical styles and personnel changes. "Celluloid Heroes," originally released on the 1972 album "Everybody’s in Show-Biz," had become a significant part of their setlist, reflecting the band's thematic exploration of fame and nostalgia. Notably, the live recording highlighted their ability to engage audiences with storytelling through music, solidifying their legacy as influential pioneers in rock history. By this time, the band had navigated various challenges, including line-up changes, and was establishing a renewed connection with their audience, making this performan

The Kinks: Full Concert at Rockpalast 1982 Featuring Classic Hits

Essen

November 30, 1981 | Video Length: 1:49:12
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  • In their career around the time of the live recording on November 30, 1981, at Rockpalast in Essen, Germany, The Kinks were experiencing a notable res... Read Full Description >

    In their career around the time of the live recording on November 30, 1981, at Rockpalast in Essen, Germany, The Kinks were experiencing a notable resurgence. Prior to this performance, they released the album "Give the People What They Want" in 1981, which marked a significant return to form with its commercial success and critical acclaim. The album included hits like "Destroyer" and "Come On Now," both of which were included in the Essen setlist, showcasing their enduring appeal and ability to connect with audiences. By this point in their career, The Kinks had navigated various musical styles and lineup changes, but their live performances remained a powerful testament to their legacy. The 1981 concert also reflected their ability to blend rock with thoughtful lyrical content, solidifying their status as one of the pioneering bands of their era. This performance is a key highlight in understanding the evolution of The Kinks during the 1980s.

The Kinks - One More For The Road Full Concert - Live in Tokyo 1982

Nihon Seinenkan
Tokyo, Japan

February 27, 1982 | Video Length: 1:22:10
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  • By February 1982, The Kinks had recently entered a revitalized phase of their career, following the release of their album "Low Budget" in 1979 and it... Read Full Description >

    By February 1982, The Kinks had recently entered a revitalized phase of their career, following the release of their album "Low Budget" in 1979 and its follow-up, "Give the People What They Want," in 1981. The live performance recorded in Tokyo reflects this momentum, showcasing their renewed popularity and the strong connection they maintained with their audience, particularly in Japan, where they enjoyed a dedicated fan base. The setlist likely includes tracks from "Give the People What They Want," showcasing the interplay of Ray Davies' storytelling and the band's signature rock sound. Notably, The Kinks used this tour to experiment with their live shows, adding energy and incorporating newer material, which allowed them to remain relevant in a rapidly changing music scene. This performance in Tokyo exemplified their ability to adapt while staying true to their roots, a hallmark of their enduring legacy.

The Kinks - Full Concert: Word Of Mouth Tour Live at Festhalle, Frankfurt

Festhalle
Frankfurt, Germany

November 23, 1984 | Video Length: 1:30:52
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  • The Kinks were at a notable juncture in their career during the "Word Of Mouth" tour in 1984, following the release of their album "Word of Mouth," wh... Read Full Description >

    The Kinks were at a notable juncture in their career during the "Word Of Mouth" tour in 1984, following the release of their album "Word of Mouth," which came out earlier that year. This album marked a significant moment for the band, as it was part of their 1980s resurgence after a tumultuous period in the late 1970s. Featuring tracks with a polished sound, the album attempted to bridge their classic rock roots with contemporary influences of the era. The live recording from the Festhalle in Frankfurt captures the band embracing this new direction, showcasing their ability to adapt while still resonating with fans. Interestingly, the tour itself was indicative of the Kinks' return to live performances after a hiatus from extensive touring in previous years, further solidifying their enduring legacy in rock music. The prominence of keyboardist Ian Gibbons' vocals in the recording adds a unique layer to their live sound during this period.

The Kinks ● Full Concert Performance in Frankfurt, Germany

Frankfurt, Germany

November 23, 1984 | Video Length: 1:28:13
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  • In November 1984, The Kinks were at a pivotal point in their career, having recently released the album "State of Confusion" earlier that year. This a... Read Full Description >

    In November 1984, The Kinks were at a pivotal point in their career, having recently released the album "State of Confusion" earlier that year. This album featured a blend of rock and new wave influences, and it included hit singles like "Come Dancing," which played a significant role in revitalizing their commercial success in the 1980s. The live performance in Frankfurt showcases the band during a phase where they were embracing a more polished, arena-rock sound, reflecting the musical trends of the time. Interestingly, this concert also includes classics like "Lola," highlighting the band's enduring appeal and connection to their earlier work while navigating the changing music landscape. The 1984 tour coincided with a resurgence in The Kinks' popularity, proving their resilience and adaptability in the industry.

The Kinks - Full Concert Live at The Roxy, Atlanta: Phobia Tour

The Roxy
Atlanta, GA, United States

April 26, 1993 | Video Length: 1:24:07
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  • In 1993, during the "Phobia" tour, The Kinks were promoting their album *Phobia*, which was released in the same year. This album marked a significant... Read Full Description >

    In 1993, during the "Phobia" tour, The Kinks were promoting their album *Phobia*, which was released in the same year. This album marked a significant moment in their career, as it was their first studio release in five years following *Think Visual* (1986) and featured a return to their rock roots after a period that saw varying styles across their earlier works. The live performance at The Roxy in Atlanta showcased the band's enduring energy and appeal, despite a lineup that had shifted over the years. Notably, the performance highlighted the Kinks' ability to connect with audiences, reflecting their resilience in the evolving music landscape of the early '90s. The recording is a testament to the band's legacy, capturing the spirit and raw energy that remained a hallmark of their live shows up to that point in their long career. The *Phobia* tour symbolizes a moment of revisiting their foundational sound while adapting to contemporary rock.

The Kinks - Full Concert from Heroes of Rock in Stuttgart

Stuttgart

December 21, 1994 | Video Length: 1:28:08
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  • In December 1994, The Kinks were in a rejuvenated phase of their career following the release of their album "Phobia," which came out in 1993. At this... Read Full Description >

    In December 1994, The Kinks were in a rejuvenated phase of their career following the release of their album "Phobia," which came out in 1993. At this time, the band was celebrating their legacy while embracing a new generation of fans. Their performance at the "Heroes of Rock" concert in Stuttgart, Germany, showcased their enduring popularity and ability to perform live with energy and enthusiasm, sharing the stage with notable acts like ELO and Kansas. The early '90s marked a period of resurgence for The Kinks after a somewhat tumultuous time in the 1980s, with Ray Davies's songwriting often reflecting personal and societal themes. The Stuttgart concert not only highlighted their classic hits but also demonstrated their commitment to live performance, which remained a vital part of their identity as a band.

The Kinks Live Performance at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Concert

Rock & Roll Hall of Fame
Cleveland, OH, United States

September 2, 1995 | Video Length: 11:23
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  • In the early to mid-1990s, The Kinks were experiencing a renaissance in their career, particularly following their induction into the Rock and Roll Ha... Read Full Description >

    In the early to mid-1990s, The Kinks were experiencing a renaissance in their career, particularly following their induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1990. By the time of the live recording on September 2, 1995, at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland, the band had just released their album *Phobia* in 1993, which included tracks that showcased their signature rock sound while tackling themes of aging and nostalgia. This concert, commemorating the opening of the Hall of Fame's museum, was notable as it featured several other prominent artists, further solidifying The Kinks' legacy in rock history. Interestingly, this performance also highlighted the band's influence across generations, reflecting their respected status after decades in the music industry despite changes in musical trends. The event celebrated not only their own contributions but also the rich tapestry of rock music as a whole.

  • In the live performance of "Lola," The Kinks were at a pivotal point in their career, having recently released the iconic album "Lola Versus Powerman ... Read Full Description >

    In the live performance of "Lola," The Kinks were at a pivotal point in their career, having recently released the iconic album "Lola Versus Powerman and the Moneygoround, Part One" in 1970. This album marked a significant evolution in their sound, blending rock with elements of music hall and social commentary, showcasing the band's innovative style. "Lola," the title track, became one of their most beloved songs, solidifying their place in rock history. The performance highlights not only the band's ability to engage live audiences but also reflects the glam rock era's aesthetics, evident in the flares worn during the show. This period was notable for The Kinks as they navigated the shifting music landscape, establishing themselves as critical figures in the British rock scene.

  • The live recording of "The Kinks Village Green Preservation Society" captures the band during a notably experimental and reflective period in their ca... Read Full Description >

    The live recording of "The Kinks Village Green Preservation Society" captures the band during a notably experimental and reflective period in their career. This album, released in 1968, came after the commercial success of their earlier works, marking a shift towards more sophisticated songwriting and thematic concepts, reflecting British life and culture. Interestingly, though "Village Green Preservation Society" was not initially a massive commercial success, it has since gained a cult following and is regarded as one of the band's defining works. The Kinks were evolving artistically, moving away from their earlier straightforward rock 'n' roll style to embrace more complex narratives and musical experimentation. This live performance illustrates their confidence and the depth of their material, showcasing their ability to engage audiences while delving into themes that resonated deeply within the changing cultural landscape of the late 1960s.

  • During the period of the live recording referenced, The Kinks had recently released the album "Misfits" in 1978. This album marked a significant momen... Read Full Description >

    During the period of the live recording referenced, The Kinks had recently released the album "Misfits" in 1978. This album marked a significant moment in their career, as it was part of their transition into a more reflective and mature sound, moving away from their earlier rock hits. Notably, the band's lineup had changed, with Ray Davies continuing to lead the group through various musical changes. The live performance captures a mix of classic hits like "You Really Got Me" and "All Day and All of the Night," along with newer material like "Misfits." This juxtaposition highlights the band's ability to blend their historical sound with contemporary themes. The Kinks faced challenges during this period, including management disputes and fluctuating popularity, but they remained influential, reflecting their resilience in the music industry. Live performances during this time showcased their enduring charm and commitment to artistry, resonating profoundly with fans.