Rock Concert (1973)
Don Kirshner's landmark music variety series brought the greatest rock acts of the 1970s straight into American living rooms.
Rock Concert - Series Information
- Original Title: Rock Concert
- First Air Year: 1973
- Last Air Year: 1976
- Created by: Don Kirshner
- Type: TV Series
- Episode Runtime: Average runtime per episode (90 minutes)
- Number of Seasons: 3
- Number of Episodes: 64
- Status: Ended
- Original Language: English
- Networks: ABC
- Alternative Titles: Don Kirshner's Rock Concert (US)
- Production Companies: Viacom Productions
Rock Concert - Plot
Don Kirshner's Rock Concert is an American television music variety show that ran during the 1970s and early 1980s, created and produced by Don Kirshner and syndicated to television stations. It premiered on September 27, 1973, with a performance by The Rolling Stones; its last episode was in 1981.
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Rock Concert - Cast & Crew
Creator(s)
- Don Kirshner
Main Cast
- Don Kirshner
- Linda Ronstadt
- Chuck Berry
- Dave Mason
- Billy Joel
- David Essex
- Dr. John
- Larry Graham
- Tina Turner
- Ike Turner
Rock Concert - FAQs
What is Rock Concert about?
Rock Concert, officially known as Don Kirshner's Rock Concert, was a syndicated American music variety show that gave viewers front-row access to live rock performances throughout the 1970s. Created by music impresario Don Kirshner, it featured some of the era's biggest acts performing in an intimate, concert-style setting.
Who premiered on the first episode of Rock Concert?
The Rolling Stones kicked off the very first episode of Don Kirshner's Rock Concert on September 27, 1973. It was a landmark debut that immediately established the show's credibility and set the tone for the parade of rock royalty that would follow throughout its run.
How many seasons and episodes does Rock Concert have?
Rock Concert ran for 3 seasons totaling 64 episodes. Season 1 featured 21 episodes, Season 2 expanded to 23 episodes, and Season 3 wrapped with 20 episodes. The show aired from 1973 to 1976 on ABC before continuing in syndication through 1981.
Who created Don Kirshner's Rock Concert?
Don Kirshner created and produced the show. Already a legendary figure in the music industry — having worked with artists like the Monkees and the Archies — Kirshner brought his deep industry connections and passion for live rock music to television, resulting in one of the most celebrated music programs of the 1970s.
What made Rock Concert different from other music shows?
Unlike the polished, variety-format music shows of the era, Rock Concert leaned into raw, concert-style performances with minimal scripted filler. The show gave artists extended time on stage and prioritized musical authenticity, making it a genuine showcase for rock talent rather than a televised spectacle.
Who are the main performers featured in Rock Concert?
The show featured an extraordinary roster of talent, including Linda Ronstadt, Chuck Berry, Billy Joel, Tina Turner, Ike Turner, Dr. John, Dave Mason, David Essex, Larry Graham, and Joe Walsh, among many others. It essentially served as a who's who of 1970s rock and pop music.
What network aired Rock Concert?
Rock Concert aired on ABC and was also syndicated to television stations across the United States. The syndication model was key to its reach, allowing the show to find audiences beyond the major network schedule and cementing its status as a staple of 1970s television.
What are shows similar to Rock Concert?
Fans of Rock Concert may enjoy The Midnight Special (1972), another beloved 1970s music performance series with a similar concert-driven format. Classic variety programs like The Garry Moore Show (1958) and Texaco Star Theater (1948) also share the spirit of live entertainment that defined Rock Concert's appeal.
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