Rock music is a tight-knit community, where the achievements and struggles of one band resonate with others. Recently, Queen’s Brian May took to social media to express his heartfelt sentiments following the announcement that Aerosmith will no longer be touring. This significant moment marks the end of an era for one of rock’s most iconic groups.
Rise of Queen (and Brian May)
Brian May, the renowned guitarist and songwriter, was an integral part of Queen‘s phenomenal success.
Formed in 1970, the band quickly rose to fame with their unique sound and electrifying performances. Hit singles like “Bohemian Rhapsody,” “We Will Rock You” and “Somebody to Love” cemented their place in rock history, and their on-stage performances were legendary, with Freddie Mercury‘s dynamic stage presence and Brian May’s guitar prowess captivating audiences worldwide.
The 1985 Live Aid Concert at Wembley Stadium is often cited as one of the greatest live performances in rock history, solidifying Queen’s status as icons of the genre.
Tragic loss of Freddie Mercury
Despite the tragic loss of Freddie Mercury in 1991, Queen’s legacy has endured. Brian May, along with bandmate and drummer Roger Taylor, have kept the band’s music alive, performing with guest vocalists, like Adam Lambert, and releasing new material.
May’s innovative guitar work and Mercury’s legendary voice contributed to Queen’s lasting legacy, influencing countless musicians and bands in the decades since they hit the scene, including Aerosmith.
Aerosmith’s rock legacy
Aerosmith’s journey to rock superstardom began in Boston in 1970, when Steven Tyler, Joe Perry, Tom Hamilton, Joey Kramer and Brad Whitford came together to form a band that would soon take the music world by storm. Their early years were marked by relentless touring and a series of high-energy performances that built up a loyal fanbase.
The release of their self-titled debut album in 1973, which featured hits like “Dream On,” set the stage for their rise to fame. This was followed by a string of successful albums, including Get Your Wings and Toys in the Attic, which produced timeless classics like “Sweet Emotion” and “Walk This Way.”
The band’s gritty blend of rock and blues, combined with Tyler’s electrifying stage presence and distinctive vocals, established Aerosmith as one of the most influential acts of the 1970s. Their influence on rock music is immeasurable, with several bands citing Aerosmith as a major inspiration.
Aerosmith announce their retirement from touring
On August 2, 2024, Aerosmith made the somber announcement of their retirement from touring, marking the end of an era that spanned over five decades. The news came almost a year after Steven Tyler, 76, sustained a significant injury during a September 2023 performance, where he fractured his larynx. Despite months of dedicated recovery efforts, Tyler’s been unable to regain his full vocal ability.
The band’s statement conveyed their sorrow and gratitude, stating, “As you know, Steven’s voice is an instrument like no other. He has spent months tirelessly working on getting his voice to where it was before his injury. We’ve seen him struggling despite having the best medical team by his side. Sadly, it is clear, that a full recovery from his vocal injury is not possible.”
The announcement continued with an acknowledgment of the gravity of their decision, underscoring the emotional weight it carried for the band. It read, “We have made a heartbreaking and difficult, but necessary, decision – as a band of brothers – to retire from the touring stage. We are grateful beyond words for everyone who was pumped to get on the road with us one last time.”
Showing gratitude to their fans
In their announcement, Aerosmith extended heartfelt thanks to their devoted fanbase. “Thanks to you, our Blue Army, that spark caught flame and has been burning for over five decades. Some of you have been with us since the beginning and all of you are the reason we made rock ‘n’ roll history,” the band’s statement read
They also acknowledged the profound impact their fans had on their lives, saying, “It has been the honor of our lives to have our music become part of yours. In every club, on every massive tour and at moments grand and private you have given us a place in the soundtrack of your lives.”
Brian May’s emotional tribute to Aerosmith
Upon hearing the news of Aerosmith’s retirement, Brian May shared a touching Instagram post, in which he expressed his admiration and sorrow for the band.
“This has brought a tear to my eye. Aerosmith have been a huge part of my life, as they have been for millions of other rock fans. Steve Tyler stands as one the greatest vocalists and front men of all time – and it’s heartbreaking that his extraordinary voice has been so damaged,” May wrote.
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May went on to praise the band’s decision, highlighting their class and style. “We all send our love and prayers for your recovery, Steve,” he wrote. “It’s also typical of the pure class of the band that they have made and broadcast this bold decision in such style. The career of Aerosmith is truly something to celebrate forever.”