The History Behind the Red Rock Amphitheater

Red Rocks Amphitheater is located in the county of Denver and has been the scene of some of the greatest live music moments in our lifetime. The venue sits amongst the mountains, with perfect acoustics and romantic undertones. Would you believe the first live event was held in 1911, with a performance from Mary Garden a religious singer?

Bruce Springsteen’s first big outdoor concert was held in June of 1978, U2s memorable ‘War’ tour concert brought down the house in 1983. Yes, the Beatles DID perform at the historic venue on August 26th, 1964. The Fab Four played to a nearly empty house, as only 7,000 seats were sold, while Jethro Tull and the Grateful Dead filled every seat when they played.

Who played the most at Red Rocks? John Denver played to a full house 17 times. What about the oddest rocker to play at the legendary venue? How about Jimi Hendrix on September 1st, 1968. Many fans waited nearly a day in line to get a ticket. Vanilla Fudge opened for Jimi, and it’s one of the most memorable moments in Red Rocks history.


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