7 Memorable Classic Rock Stage Accidents
via Keith Richards / YouTube
Classic rock performances have always been known for their electrifying energy and unforgettable moments, but sometimes, they also come with unexpected mishaps. Here are seven memorable accidents that left quite an impression on both the artists and their audiences.
Keith Richards – Electrocuted
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The iconic Keith Richards faced a shocking situation during a 1965 Rolling Stones concert in Sacramento. As he stepped forward to add his vocals, he noticed the microphone was misaligned. Attempting to adjust it with his guitar, he was suddenly knocked down by a severe electrical shock, a result of faulty wiring. The crowd was stunned, some even thought he might have been fatally struck. Medical personnel quickly intervened, taking him to a hospital where he recovered fully, much to the relief of fans everywhere.
Gene Simmons – Caught Fire
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Gene Simmons of Kiss is renowned for his dramatic flare, particularly during the song “Firehouse.” In a risky act, he would breathe fire by spitting kerosene onto a lit torch. During one New Year’s Eve performance in 1973, this stunt caused his hair to catch fire. Luckily, a quick-reacting roadie smothered the flames with a wet towel, preventing serious injuries. Over the years, Simmons admits his hair has met the flames multiple times.
Alice Cooper – Almost Strangled
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Alice Cooper’s shows are a spectacle of danger with their array of hazardous props. Over his career, Cooper has experienced several close calls. These include nearly being strangled by a malfunctioning gallows, accidentally stabbing himself with a sword, and breaking his ribs in a fall from the stage. He often jokes with incoming band members about the inevitable “stitches” they’ll collect.
Meat Loaf – Trip on Cables
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In 1978, Meat Loaf faced a painful incident on stage at the Ottawa Civic Centre. During the energetic “All Revved Up”, he managed to get his foot entangled in some cables. This resulted in him hanging upside down, finishing the song in that precarious position and severely damaging his knee. The incident led to a surgical procedure, a stark reminder of the risks artists take to entertain.
Axl Rose – Broke His Foot
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Reunited with Slash and Duff McKagan, Axl Rose had an unforgettable moment during a 2016 Guns N’ Roses concert at the Troubadour in Hollywood. Leaping during “Mr. Brownstone”, he landed awkwardly, breaking his fifth metatarsal. Despite the setback, Rose refused to let the injury stop him. Making the best of the situation, he performed seated on a throne for subsequent shows, including Coachella, demonstrating his resilience and dedication to his fans.
Keith Emerson – Broken Nose
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In the world of progressive rock, few bands were as dynamic as Emerson, Lake & Palmer. Their performances were a blend of loud music and theatrical stunts, one of which involved a piano being lifted and spun above the stage. During one show, Keith Emerson suffered a broken nose when the piano unexpectedly struck him. Another incident saw his keyboard explode due to misfiring pyrotechnics, injuring his hands. Despite these accidents, Emerson always returned to the stage, ready to perform again.
Steven Tyler – Pushed and Fall
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Steven Tyler of Aerosmith proved that history could indeed repeat itself. While performing “Love in an Elevator” in 2009, he suffered multiple injuries after a fall from the stage. Astonishingly, a similar incident occurred the following year during the same song when bandmate Joe Perry playfully pushed him, causing another fall. Both instances highlight the unpredictable nature of live performances and the physical risks involved.
