Get Your Wings Tour
The relentless road trip that turned a Boston band into American rock legends.
The Get Your Wings Tour stands as a pivotal chapter in Aerosmith's history, marking their transition from a regional Boston act into bona fide rock superstars. Following the massive success of their self-titled debut, this extensive North American run supported their second studio album, 'Get Your Wings.' It was during these grueling months on the road that the band solidified their reputation for high-energy performances and theatrical excess.
- Supported Album
- Get Your Wings
- Time Period
- 1974–1975
- Key Role
- Breakout National Tour
- Opening Acts
- Various regional bands including Foghat at times
- Band Status
- Rising Rock Icons
Lore & Background
Beyond the music, the tour served as a crucible for the band's internal dynamics. While they achieved critical acclaim and sold-out crowds, the pressure of constant travel and the allure of substance abuse began to take a toll. The 'Get Your Wings' era is remembered not just for hits like 'Same Old Song and Dance,' but as the moment the band truly learned how to command a stadium, setting the template for their future dominance in rock history.
In Their Own Story
The bus rattles through the dark of night, tires humming against the asphalt as the neon lights of another city blur past. Inside, the air is thick with smoke and the lingering scent of cheap cologne. Steven is pacing, strumming a chord on his acoustic guitar while Joe leans back, eyes closed, listening to the static on the radio. They are miles from home, miles from anything familiar, but as the sun rises over the horizon, they know that tonight, when the lights hit the stage and the first riff hits, everything else will fade away.
Reader's Guide
The tour kicked off in late 1974, stretching well into 1975 across North America. The band played a mix of headlining shows and support slots for major acts like Foghat and Bad Company, gradually moving from clubs to larger theaters. Setlists were heavy on material from 'Get Your Wings,' featuring deep cuts alongside the growing hits 'Same Old Song and Dance' and 'Walk This Way.' Early in the run, they also frequently performed tracks from their previous two albums to satisfy fans. The lineup remained stable with Steven Tyler, Joe Perry, Tom Hamilton, Joey Kramer, and Brad Whitford. However, the intensity of the tour began to strain relationships, particularly between Tyler and Perry, foreshadowing future tensions despite the on-stage chemistry.
Did You Know?
- This was the first time Aerosmith consistently headlined major venues across the United States.
- The tour was confined to North America; Aerosmith's first European tour occurred in 1975 supporting 'Toys in the Attic'.
- Steven Tyler's use of a microphone stand as a prop became a signature visual element during this era.
- The band played several shows at iconic venues that would become staples of their career.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did the Get Your Wings Tour take place?
This extensive North American run occurred primarily during 1974 and 1975. It followed immediately after their debut album gained traction to promote their second studio record.
Which Aerosmith album was supported by this tour?
The band hit the road specifically to promote their sophomore release, titled 'Get Your Wings.' This period helped cement the material from that record in the public consciousness.
Why is this tour considered a turning point for the band?
It marked their crucial shift from being known only as a regional Boston act to becoming bona fide rock superstars across America. The relentless schedule solidified their status as rising icons within the industry.
Who performed as opening acts during these shows?
Various regional bands shared the stage, with Foghat occasionally serving as support. These lineup choices helped introduce Aerosmith to wider audiences outside of New England.
What kind of reputation did the band build on this tour?
During these grueling months, the group established a legacy for high-energy performances and theatrical excess. Fans remember this era for defining their wild live show style that would last decades.
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