Pop culture of the 20th century was really rich, especially when it comes to music, bringing a real explosion of new energy, liberation and horizons broadening. Many new directions in music appeared and new bands and individuals were standing on the world stage with their own story to tell.
One of the crucial things in expressing their stories was the visual identity. A high-level of skill and talent is necessary to capture in one perfect shot the unique energy of the band and more or less abstract story following it. Strong visual aesthetics was very important for every band and individual, making people interested even before they had a chance to hear the music.
In the gallery below you can see a great collection of iconic photos made by some of the most talented concert photographers of the time. Sense the energy, passion, and individual signet of the greatest music legends of 20th-century through 25 masterfully captured moments.
1. The Ramones
Photo by Ian Dickson
2. Elton John – Dodger Stadium
Photo by Terry O’Neill
3. Fugazi
Photographer Unknown
4. Jimmy and his Jack
Photo by Neal Preston
5. B. B. King
Photo by Keith Morris
6. Queen
Photo via ’40 Years Of Queen’ (Goodman)
7. The Doors live at Fillmore East 1968
Photo by Yale Joel
8. Nat King Cole
9. Neil Young
10. Jimi Hendrix and Mick Jagger, New York, 1969
11. Lou Reed with John Cale, Patti Smith & David Byrne, NYC 1976
12. Joy Division
13. Angus Young (AC/DC) seemingly levitating
14. Elvis and Ann-Margret, 1964
15. A young Hans Zimmer next to a Moog synthesizer
16. Louis Armstrong Plays For His Wife in Giza, 1961
17. Jim Morrison 1968
18. Robert Plant holding a dove that flew into his hands Circa. 1973
19. The Beatles performing their last live public concert on the rooftop of the Apple Organisation
20. Joey Ramones and Gaye Advert London 1978
21. Johnny Cash at San Quentin
22. The Byrds in New York City
23. Beastie Boys early 80’s
24. Iggy Pop
25. Jimi Hendrix In Bakersfield, California 1968
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