1973 was a pivotal year for rock music, marking the rise of several groundbreaking bands. These groups captured the spirit of the era with their distinctive sound, leaving a lasting impression on the music scene.
But what became of these bands after their initial success? Some went on to global stardom, while others faded into obscurity or underwent dramatic transformations.
This article explores the paths these bands took after their breakout year. From lineup changes to shifts in musical direction, we’ll uncover where they are now and how their legacies have evolved over time.
Aerosmith
WHAT TRANSPIRED IN THE YEAR 1973:
In 1973, Aerosmith debuted with their self-titled album, but it didn’t bring them overnight success. The release, however, served as a crucial stepping stone in their journey, hinting at the potential that would later define their career. “Dream On,” their standout power ballad, only reached No. 59 on the Billboard Hot 100, making a modest impact at the time.
Despite this slow start, Aerosmith didn’t fade away. They kept pushing forward, and that persistence eventually paid off. What began as a quiet entry into the rock world soon evolved into a legendary run for the Boston band.
WHAT TRANSPIRED AFTER:
Aerosmith’s heavy touring began to pay off with their second album, Get Your Wings, gaining some momentum. But it was Toys in the Attic that truly launched them into the spotlight. In 1975, “Sweet Emotion” became their first Top 40 hit, and a reissue of “Dream On” reached No. 6 on the Billboard Hot 100.
As the ’70s ended, Aerosmith delivered more hits like “Walk This Way” and “Back in the Saddle.” But rising internal tensions, drug problems, and falling sales nearly broke the band. In 1984, Joe Perry and Brad Whitford returned, giving Aerosmith a fresh start.
Their comeback solidified in 1986 when they teamed up with Run-D.M.C. for “Walk This Way,” merging rock and rap in a new way. This collaboration revitalized their career, and they went on to release more hits like “Dude (Looks Like a Lady)” and “I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing,” solidifying their place in rock history.
Brownsville Station
WHAT TRANSPIRED IN THE YEAR 1973:
Michigan rockers Brownsville Station had been playing since the late ’60s, but it wasn’t until their 1973 album Yeah! that they gained real traction. While “Let Your Yeah Be Yeah” only reached No. 57, it hinted at the band’s growing potential.
Their big breakthrough came with the hit “Smokin’ in the Boys Room,” which shot up to No. 3 on the U.S. Hot 100. This single not only put them on the map but also secured their place in rock history.
WHAT TRANSPIRED AFTER:
After the success of “Smokin’ in the Boys Room,” Brownsville Station’s 1974 album School Punks produced modest hits like “I’m the Leader of the Gang” and “Kings of the Party.” However, they couldn’t match the impact of their breakout single. The band released three more albums before calling it quits in 1979.
In 2012, guitarist Mike Lutz and drummer Henry Weck revived Brownsville Station with the album Still Smokin’. Though their prime was in the ’70s, their music continues to resonate with fans even decades later.
Lynyrd Skynyrd
WHAT TRANSPIRED IN THE YEAR 1973:
Lynyrd Skynyrd’s journey began in 1964, but it wasn’t until 1973 that they made their mark with the release of their debut album, Pronounced ‘Lĕh-‘nérd ‘Skin-‘nérd. The album featured iconic Southern rock tracks like “Free Bird,” “Simple Man,” and “Sweet Home Alabama,” which would later become anthems of the genre.
These songs not only launched the band into the spotlight but also solidified their influence on the Southern rock movement of the 1970s. Lynyrd Skynyrd quickly became a defining force in shaping the sound of the decade.
WHAT TRANSPIRED AFTER:
Lynyrd Skynyrd kept their momentum going with albums like Second Helping, Nuthin’ Fancy, and Gimme Back My Bullets. These records delivered memorable hits like “Call Me the Breeze” and “Double Trouble,” further cementing their place in rock history.
However, tragedy struck in 1977 when a plane crash took the lives of frontman Ronnie Van Zant, guitarist Steve Gaines, and backing vocalist Cassie Gaines, among others. This devastating event brought their rising career to an abrupt halt, marking a tragic chapter in the band’s legacy.
The Marshall Tucker Band
WHAT TRANSPIRED IN THE YEAR 1973:
Lynyrd Skynyrd may have led the Southern rock movement in the early ’70s, but they had company. The Marshall Tucker Band, hailing from South Carolina, quickly gained recognition with the release of their 1973 self-titled debut album.
Tracks like “Can’t You See” and “Take the Highway” highlighted their musical talent and cemented their role in shaping the Southern rock sound. Their unique blend of rock, country, and blues set them apart, helping them rise alongside their peers in the genre.
WHAT TRANSPIRED AFTER:
Throughout the ’70s, The Marshall Tucker Band maintained their success, releasing eight albums that kept them in the spotlight. Their album Searchin’ for a Rainbow stood out, featuring hits like “Fire on the Mountain,” “Heard It in a Love Song,” and “Dream Lover,” which became staples on rock radio.
Despite hardships, including the tragic death of bassist Tommy Caldwell in the early ’80s, the band continued moving forward. With Doug Gray as the last original member, The Marshall Tucker Band has released 22 studio albums, proving their enduring presence in Southern rock.