Early Years and the Formation
Def Leppard was formed by guitarist Pete Willis, bassist Rick Savage, drummer Frank Noon, and singer Joe Elliott. Their early performances were characterized by a raw sound that combined elements of hard rock and glam rock. In 1979, the band released their debut album, On Through the Night, which set the stage for their future success.
The First Tour: 1980-1981
The band's first major tour occurred in support of their debut album. Highlights included:
- Supporting Acts: Def Leppard opened for bands like AC/DC and Ted Nugent.
- Venues: They played in smaller venues across the UK, building a loyal fanbase.
- Setlist: The setlist primarily featured tracks from On Through the Night.
The Pyromania Era: 1982-1984
With the release of Pyromania in 1983, Def Leppard achieved mainstream success. The album featured hits like "Photograph" and "Rock of Ages," propelling them to stardom.
The Pyromania World Tour
- Duration: The tour lasted from 1983 to 1984.
- Significance: This was the band's first major world tour, marking their transition to arena rock status.
- Highlights:
- Iconic Venues: They performed at prestigious venues, including Madison Square Garden in New York City and the Forum in Los Angeles.
- Attendance: The tour attracted massive crowds, often selling out arenas.
Supporting Acts
Def Leppard toured with prominent bands during this era, including:
1. Billy Squier
2. Heart
3. REO Speedwagon
This helped them gain exposure and reach new audiences.
Hysteria and the Height of Fame: 1986-1989
The release of Hysteria in 1987 marked a pivotal moment in Def Leppard's history. The album included hits like "Pour Some Sugar on Me" and "Love Bites," solidifying their place in rock history.
The Hysteria World Tour
- Duration: The tour spanned from 1987 to 1989.
- Impact: This tour was instrumental in establishing Def Leppard as one of the biggest rock bands of the era.
- Tour Highlights:
- Record-Breaking Shows: The tour included a staggering 200 shows across five continents.
- Notable Concerts: One of the most memorable performances was at the 1988 Monsters of Rock festival in Donington, England, where they played to over 100,000 fans.
Innovative Stage Production
Def Leppard's Hysteria tour was known for its groundbreaking stage production, which included:
- Advanced Sound Systems: They utilized cutting-edge technology to ensure superior sound quality.
- Visual Effects: The shows featured elaborate lighting displays and video screens, making it a multi-sensory experience for the audience.
Challenges and Resilience: 1990s
The 1990s brought challenges for the band, including the tragic loss of drummer Rick Allen's arm in a car accident in 1984. Despite this setback, Def Leppard adapted and continued to tour.
Adrenalize Tour (1992)
Following the release of Adrenalize in 1992, Def Leppard embarked on the Adrenalize tour.
- Tour Duration: The tour lasted from 1992 to 1993.
- Importance: This tour was crucial for re-establishing the band after the Hysteria era.
- Setlist: The performances included new tracks alongside classic hits, appealing to both old and new fans.
1990s Tours and Collaborations
Throughout the 1990s, Def Leppard participated in various tours, including:
- Rock Never Stops Tour (1998): Featuring bands like Ted Nugent and Styx.
- Co-headlining Tours: They collaborated with other rock giants, such as Journey and Bryan Adams, reaching diverse audiences.
2000s and Reinvention
In the 2000s, Def Leppard embraced new technology and embraced their legacy while still experimenting with their music.
Long, Long Way to Go Tour (2002-2003)
- Tour Focus: This tour celebrated their extensive catalog and engaged with fans through intimate performances.
- Unique Venues: They played in smaller settings, allowing for a closer connection with the audience.
2006 Reunion and Continued Touring
- Return to the Road: After several years, the band returned to touring, performing at major festivals and arenas.
- Notable Highlights: Their participation in the Download Festival in the UK marked a triumphant return to the festival circuit.
2010s: Legacy and Continued Success
The 2010s saw Def Leppard solidifying their legacy as rock legends while continuing to tour extensively.
Def Leppard and Styx Tour (2014)
- Co-headlining Tour: This tour further showcased their enduring popularity, playing to packed arenas across North America.
- Setlist: Fans were treated to a mix of classic songs and new material, demonstrating the band's ability to evolve while staying true to their roots.
Hysteria 30th Anniversary Tour (2017)
To celebrate the 30th anniversary of their seminal album Hysteria, the band performed the album in its entirety during select shows.
- Significance: This tour allowed fans to relive the magic of the album while introducing it to new generations.
- Critical Acclaim: The tour received positive reviews, with many praising the band's energy and performance quality.
Recent Years: 2020s and Beyond
As the music industry adapted to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Def Leppard continued to engage with fans through virtual performances and planned tours.
2022 Stadium Tour
- Tour Details: The band announced a major stadium tour featuring other iconic acts like Mötley Crüe and Poison.
- Significance: This tour was a testament to their lasting power and ability to draw large crowds.
Legacy and Impact
Def Leppard's tour history reflects their journey through the music industry, showcasing their resilience, creativity, and evolution as a band. Their ability to adapt to changing times while maintaining a loyal fanbase is a remarkable feat.
- Influence on Rock Music: They have inspired countless artists and have left an indelible mark on the rock genre.
- Record Sales: With over 100 million records sold worldwide, their impact is undeniable.
Conclusion
Def Leppard's tour history is not just a collection of concerts; it represents a rich tapestry of their artistic journey. From their early days in the UK club scene to sold-out stadiums around the world, the band has continually captivated audiences with their electrifying performances and timeless music. As they move forward into the future, fans can expect Def Leppard to continue their legacy of rock and roll excellence, making each tour a memorable experience for generations to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Def Leppard first go on tour?
Def Leppard first went on tour in 1979 to support their debut album 'On Through the Night'.
What was the name of Def Leppard's first major tour?
The first major tour was the 'Pyromania World Tour' which took place from 1983 to 1984.
Which album did Def Leppard promote during their extensive 1987 tour?
The band promoted their album 'Hysteria' during the extensive 1987 tour.
How did Def Leppard's tour schedules change after the drummer Rick Allen's accident?
After Rick Allen's accident in 1984, the band adjusted their tour schedules and continued to perform with Allen using a custom drum kit.
What is the significance of the 'Adrenalize World Tour'?
The 'Adrenalize World Tour' in 1992 was significant as it was their first tour after the release of the album 'Adrenalize' and marked the band's return after a hiatus.
What was unique about Def Leppard's 2015 tour?
The 2015 tour was unique as it celebrated the 30th anniversary of the 'Hysteria' album and featured a full performance of the album.
With which band did Def Leppard tour in 2018?
In 2018, Def Leppard toured with Journey as part of a co-headlining tour.
What was the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on Def Leppard's tour plans?
The COVID-19 pandemic caused the band to postpone their 2020 tour plans, which were eventually rescheduled for 2021 and 2022.
What is a notable festival where Def Leppard performed recently?
Def Leppard performed at the 2022 Download Festival in the UK, marking a notable return to the festival scene.
