Aerosmith is one of the most enduring bands of today. Setup in 1970, the band consisted then of Steven Tyler, Joe Perry, Tom Hamilton, Ray Tabano and Joey Kramer. They frequented the local music scene until 1971. By then, Tabano was replaced by Brad Whitford. This was the final line-up change and would endure for 40 years, starting with their string of multi-platinum albums when they got signed by Columbia records in 1972. History for the band has now begun.
The 70′s were a time of decadence for the band, Aerosmith merch was the hottest thing to wear and their albums were selling like hot cakes. But in those years of excess, internal conflict started brewing within the band when drugs started playing a role. Tyler and Perry were the ones most hit, who were since known as the Toxic Twins. This conflict was the reason for the departure of Perry and Whitford who were promptly replaced, but the new line up failed to achieve the success they once knew.
In 1984, the band saw the return of Perry and Whitford as well as the signing of a new deal with Geffen Records. They released the album Permanent Vacation, and their popularity was soon regained. This was reflected by the surge of rock tees bearing their name. It was a rebirth of sorts. Throughout the late 1980′s and 90′s, their popularity steadily climbed when it reached the pinnacle of their success with the release of Get A Grip, which also resulted in the rise in popularity stock of Alicia Silverstone and, Steven’s daughter, Liv Tyler (who both appeared in the band’s music videos).
For 40 years, the band has endured both high and lows and are still alive and kicking the world’s collective ears with their unique brand of rock and roll. Though their popularity has waned a little, the fact remains that these legends of rock are here to stay. They have been compared to the Rolling Stones, most likely because of their longevity and both lead vocalists’ massive lips, but to compare the two is like comparing apples to oranges. They are the same yet different at the same time.
Now that a new decade has just begun, do not be surprised if the band keeps on rocking to the next decade. They are due for another hit album, and when they do, be prepared for a flood of Aerosmith merch saturating the market once again, just like how it was during the 70′s, 80′s and 90′s. Just look around, you can honestly gauge a band’s success by the amount of band merch that’s available. Which speaks volumes about the success of Aerosmith, Pink Floyd, Led Zeppelin and other legendary bands with merchandises still available.