Today in Rock- June 20
Aerosmith Launch the Permanent Vacation Tour
On this day in 1987, Aerosmith kicked off their Permanent Vacation World Tour at the 10th Annual Texxas Jam in Dallas.
For Aerosmith, this was far more than simply the start of another tour. It marked the beginning of one of the most successful comebacks in rock and roll history.
Throughout the 1970s, Aerosmith had become one of America’s premier rock bands. Led by vocalist Steven Tyler and guitarist Joe Perry, the group built a reputation for explosive live performances and classic songs such as “Dream On,” “Sweet Emotion,” “Walk This Way,” and “Back in the Saddle.”
However, by the early 1980s, internal conflicts, substance abuse issues, and lineup changes had taken a toll on the band.
Many observers believed Aerosmith’s best days were behind them.
That perception began changing when Perry and guitarist Brad Whitford returned to the band. Their reunion restored the chemistry that had fueled Aerosmith’s greatest successes.
The turnaround accelerated in 1986 when the group collaborated with Run-D.M.C. on a groundbreaking remake of “Walk This Way.”
The collaboration introduced Aerosmith to a new generation of fans and helped bridge the worlds of rock and hip-hop.
By the time Permanent Vacation was released in 1987, the band had regained momentum.
The album featured major hits including “Dude (Looks Like a Lady),” “Angel,” and “Rag Doll.”
The Texxas Jam proved the perfect place to launch the tour.
The annual festival attracted enormous crowds and featured an impressive lineup that included Boston, Poison, Whitesnake, and Tesla.
Aerosmith’s performance demonstrated that they were once again a major force in rock music.
The success of Permanent Vacation launched a remarkable second act in the band’s career.
Over the next decade, Aerosmith would enjoy some of their greatest commercial achievements, producing hit albums, filling arenas worldwide, and earning a place among rock’s most enduring acts.
Looking back, June 20, 1987 stands as a pivotal moment when Aerosmith officially announced their return to the top.
Foreigner Releases Double Vision
On this day in 1978, Foreigner released their second studio album, Double Vision.
The album would become one of the most successful records of the late 1970s and help establish Foreigner as one of the premier arena rock bands of the era.
The group’s self-titled debut album had already generated substantial success, but Double Vision proved they were far more than a one-album wonder.
Founded by guitarist and songwriter Mick Jones, Foreigner combined British rock influences with American hard rock energy.
The lineup also featured vocalist Lou Gramm, whose powerful voice became one of the band’s defining assets.
Double Vision climbed to number three on the Billboard album chart and eventually sold millions of copies.
The record produced several enduring classics, including “Hot Blooded,” “Double Vision,” and “Blue Morning, Blue Day.”
“Hot Blooded” showcased the band’s ability to blend hard rock riffs with irresistible pop hooks.
Its energetic arrangement and memorable chorus quickly made it a radio favorite.
Meanwhile, the title track demonstrated Foreigner’s knack for creating songs that were both commercially accessible and musically engaging.
The album reflected a period when rock music was evolving rapidly.
Disco was dominating popular culture, punk was challenging traditional rock conventions, and new musical styles were emerging.
Yet Foreigner succeeded by focusing on strong songwriting, polished production, and exceptional musicianship.
Lou Gramm’s vocals played a major role in the band’s appeal.
His combination of power, range, and emotional delivery helped elevate even the most straightforward rock songs.
The success of Double Vision paved the way for even bigger achievements.
Albums such as Head Games, 4, and Agent Provocateur would cement Foreigner’s status as one of the most successful rock bands of the era.
Today, Double Vision remains a cornerstone of classic rock radio and a testament to the band’s enduring popularity.
Happy Birthday Michael Anthony
Today we celebrate the birthday of Michael Anthony, born on June 20, 1954.
While guitar virtuosity often receives much of the attention in discussions about Van Halen, Anthony’s contributions were essential to the band’s success.
As bassist and backing vocalist for Van Halen, Anthony played a crucial role in creating one of rock’s most recognizable sounds.
When Van Halen emerged in the late 1970s, the group quickly distinguished itself through a combination of technical brilliance, energy, and showmanship.
Guitarist Eddie Van Halen revolutionized rock guitar playing, while vocalist David Lee Roth brought charisma and theatrical flair to the stage.
Yet Anthony’s contributions were equally important.
His steady bass playing provided the foundation upon which the band’s music was built.
Perhaps even more significantly, his harmony vocals became a signature element of Van Halen’s sound.
Songs such as “Runnin’ with the Devil,” “Panama,” “Dance the Night Away,” “Ain’t Talkin’ ‘Bout Love,” and “Jump” benefited greatly from Anthony’s vocal support.
His harmonies added depth and richness that helped distinguish Van Halen from many of their contemporaries.
Throughout the band’s classic era, Anthony’s reliability and consistency allowed the more flamboyant personalities around him to shine.
He rarely sought the spotlight but remained an essential part of the group’s success.
Following his years with Van Halen, Anthony continued performing with numerous projects, including collaborations with former Van Halen vocalist Sammy Hagar.
Today, fans increasingly recognize the importance of Anthony’s contributions to one of rock’s most successful and influential bands.
His work serves as a reminder that great bands are built not only on star power but also on musicians whose talents support the entire musical structure.
Final note
June 20 in rock history celebrates reinvention, commercial success, and enduring musicianship. From Aerosmith launching their comeback with the Permanent Vacation tour, to Foreigner releasing the hit-filled Double Vision, to the birthday of Van Halen bassist Michael Anthony, this day highlights artists who helped define the sound of classic rock.
These moments remind us that longevity in rock music requires talent, resilience, and the ability to evolve. Decades later, these artists continue influencing musicians and entertaining audiences around the world.
And that’s a look at today, June 20, in rock history.
