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Live Aid 1985: A Look Back at the Day Music Tried to Save the World
On July 13, 1985, a monumental event unfolded on both sides of the Atlantic. Live Aid, a dual-venue concert held at Wembley Stadium in London and JFK Stadium in Philadelphia, brought together music legends for a critical cause: famine relief in Ethiopia.
The concert, broadcast to a global audience of 1.5 billion, became a landmark moment in pop culture history. Let’s revisit some of the highlights of this unforgettable day.
A Star-Studded Backstage Snapshot:
A photo captures a who’s who of 80s musical icons backstage at JFK Stadium. Keith Richards, Daryl Hall, John Oates, Ron Wood, Tina Turner, Mick Jagger, Madonna, and Bob Dylan assembled for this legendary picture. The collective hairspray alone could have fueled a small fire.
Led Zeppelin Reunites:
Led Zeppelin’s performance at JFK marked their first reunion since the death of drummer John Bonham five years prior. Robert Plant and Jimmy Page, along with fill-in drummers Phil Collins and Tony Thompson, took the stage. While the surviving members were reportedly dissatisfied with their set, it remains a significant moment in the band’s history.
Mick Jagger and Tina Turner Electrify:
Long before certain Super Bowl wardrobe malfunctions, Mick Jagger and Tina Turner delivered a dynamic performance at JFK. Their duet of “It’s Only Rock ‘n Roll (But I Like It)” culminated in Turner playfully ripping her skirt, sending the crowd into a frenzy.
Phil Collins’ Transatlantic Triumph:
Phil Collins achieved the remarkable feat of performing at both Live Aid venues on the same day. After playing solo and with Sting at Wembley, he jetted across the Atlantic to JFK for another set, including performances with Eric Clapton and Led Zeppelin.
Sade’s Iconic Look:
Sade Adu’s performance at Wembley was memorable not only for her music but also for her distinctive style. Her white cut-out top and large gold hoop earrings became a talking point among viewers.
“Feed the World”: A Rallying Cry:
The core mission of Live Aid was to raise funds for Ethiopian famine relief. The slogan “Feed the World” became synonymous with the concerts, encapsulating the global effort to address the crisis.
A Legendary Lineup:
The original Live Aid flyer showcased an astounding lineup of artists. The sheer volume of talent assembled for this event is a testament to its historical significance.
Duran Duran’s Last Stand (For a While):
Duran Duran’s Live Aid performance at JFK marked the last time the original five members would play together until their reunion several years later.
Madonna’s Unforgettable Moment:
Madonna, riding high on the success of her “Like a Virgin” album, delivered one of Live Aid’s most talked-about sets. Addressing recent controversy over leaked nude photos, she declared, “No, I ain’t taking s**t off today!” before launching into her performance.
An Unlikely Quartet:
A candid photo captures Boy George, Sting, Sade, and Peter Gabriel together. George’s distinct style stands out in stark contrast to his fellow musicians.
Elton John and George Michael’s Surprise Duet:
Elton John surprised the Wembley crowd by bringing out George Michael for a duet of “Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me,” creating an unforgettable moment.
Freddie Mercury Commands the Stage:
Queen’s 20-minute set at Wembley is often hailed as one of the greatest live performances ever. Freddie Mercury, in his signature white tank top, captivated the audience with his commanding presence and dynamic vocals. His call-and-response with the crowd remains iconic.
Live Aid 1985 transcended a typical concert, becoming a global phenomenon that showcased the power of music to unite people for a common cause.