Relix > Issues
Published: 2009/10/22
November

It’s been a topic of debate for centuries. The forums range from bedrooms, dorm rooms, concerts and bars to television, radio and, most prominently, print. Yet the question still remains: What makes a concert great? Is it strictly the music? The venue? The context? Hindsight? They’re all valid variables and ones that will forever keep the debate alive.
So it is with great pride Relix enters the debate with its own assessment. We’ve taken it one step further, too: we’ve named what we feel are the 50 greatest concerts of the last 50 years. After much arguing, challenging, fighting, questioning and evaluating, we’ve come up with our list. And, if we do say, we think it’s great one. Certainly one that, in the spirit of the assignment, will gets as many cheers as it does boos.
We’ve compiled the list with the help of musicians, producers, agents, promoters, managers, publicists, critics and other industry heavyweights. Some of whom you may know, some you may not, but rest assured they all delivered highly opinionated nominations. The performances span the decades—from John Coltrane’s legendary stand at the Village Vanguard in 1961 to Arcade Fire’s breakthrough Coachella set in 2005—and styles—from metal to Chicago blues—that have helped shape the past 50 years of popular rock music.
Want to read more? There are two ways to get the goods:
1) Pick up a copy of the November issue of Relix magazine with THE 50 GREATEST CONCERTS on the cover at a newsstand near you
2) Subscribe to Relix by clicking HERE
Relix A/V
Dan Bern & Common Rotation "We Will Not Be Divided"
Here’s a look at the ongoing collaboration between Dan Bern and Common Rotation. The four musicians recently stopped by Relix to perform this song which originally appeared on Bern’s Anthems EP.
Strange Thunder: The Evolution of Howlin Rain
Acclaimed photographer Pamela Littky directed this short film, which shares the story of Howlin Rain. Rick Rubin produced the group’s next album, The Russian Wilds, which is set for a February 12 release.
Superhuman Happiness "See Me On My Way"
Superhuman Happiness grace the Relix boiler room with an unreleased tune.
The Thousand Pities "Super High Moon"
Here is the premiere of the video created by animator and artist, Jelani John for The Thousand Pities’ “Super High Moon.” The group’s debut album Believe in Sound was released last year.
RatDog Exclusive Rehearsal Footage
TRI has kindly shared some exclusive footage of “New Minglewood Blues” from yesterday’s rehearsal. Tune into TRI Studios at 5pm PST (8pm EST) tonight to catch RatDog’s return!
Yarn "Annie"
Here’s a previously unreleased song that is set to appear on the next studio album from Yarn.
World Premiere: Bad Weather California "I’ll Reach Out My Hand"
Bad Weather California’s new LP Sunkissed, is their debut for Akron/Family’s Family Tree Records. Here is the premiere video of the first track from Sunkissed, which set for a February 21 release.
Spindrift "Carry Me Back To The Lone Prairie"
Spindrift brings their psychedelic, Spaghetti Western sound to the Relix boiler room, with this version of Carson J. Robison’s classic cowboy tune.
Dar Williams "The Easy Way"
Dar Williams looks back to her Promised Land album for this song, which touches on life’s many choices.
Robert Ellis "Westbound Train"
Robert Ellis shares a song that he wrote after a former girlfriend moved to California and hooked up with one of his good friends
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