Aerosmith

Definition

Aerosmith is an American rock band formed in Boston in 1970, known for their fusion of hard rock, blues, and pop elements. They achieved immense popularity in the 1970s and 1980s with a sound characterized by Steven Tyler's distinctive vocals and Joe Perry's electrifying guitar riffs. The band's style has been influential in shaping the hard rock genre and has resonated with punk and heavy metal audiences.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Aerosmith's breakthrough album, 'Toys in the Attic', released in 1975, features hit singles like 'Sweet Emotion' and 'Walk This Way', which solidified their place in rock history.
2. The band experienced a significant comeback in the late 1980s and early 1990s, partly due to their collaboration with hip-hop group Run-D.M.C. on 'Walk This Way', which bridged rock and rap.
3. Aerosmith is often referred to as 'America's Greatest Rock and Roll Band' due to their longevity and influence on subsequent generations of musicians.
4. They have won numerous awards including multiple Grammy Awards, American Music Awards, and were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2001.
5. The band is known for their energetic live performances and has sold over 150 million records worldwide, making them one of the best-selling music artists in history.

Review Questions

• How did Aerosmith's musical style contribute to the development of hard rock in America?
  • Aerosmith's musical style blended elements of hard rock with blues influences, creating a sound that became a defining characteristic of American rock music. Their use of powerful vocals and dynamic guitar riffs helped set the standard for many hard rock bands that followed. The band's ability to incorporate catchy hooks and memorable melodies made their music accessible to a wide audience, further solidifying their influence on the hard rock genre.
• In what ways did Aerosmith adapt their music and image to fit into the MTV Generation of the 1980s?
  • Aerosmith adapted to the MTV Generation by embracing the visual aspect of music through innovative music videos that showcased their energetic performances. They collaborated with directors to create iconic videos that not only promoted their songs but also expanded their fan base. This shift helped them regain popularity after a period of decline in the 1980s and allowed them to remain relevant in a rapidly changing music landscape.
• Evaluate Aerosmith's impact on both punk and heavy metal music scenes throughout their career.
  • Aerosmith's impact on punk and heavy metal can be seen through their raw sound, attitude, and collaboration with artists from those genres. They inspired punk bands with their rebellious spirit while also influencing heavy metal musicians with their powerful riffs and vocal styles. Their crossover hit 'Walk This Way' with Run-D.M.C. is a prime example of how they bridged gaps between genres, showcasing their versatility while cementing their legacy as key players in the evolution of rock music.

Related terms

Hard Rock: A genre of rock music characterized by heavy use of electric guitars, strong rhythms, and powerful vocals, often emphasizing an energetic performance.

Blues Rock: A subgenre of rock music that incorporates elements of blues, focusing on strong guitar riffs and emotional lyrics, influencing many bands including Aerosmith.

MTV Generation: A term referring to the cultural impact of music videos on the music industry during the 1980s, highlighting bands like Aerosmith that adapted to this new medium.