The Arrival of The Rolling Stones: A Transformative Impact on Invercargill
In February 1965, the iconic band, The Rolling Stones, landed in Invercargill as part of their first-ever tour in New Zealand and Australia. This visit marked a significant milestone for the band as it was their longest trip at that time, covering various cities, including Auckland, Wellington, Dunedin, and Christchurch. However, it was their stop in Invercargill that left a lasting impression on the locals and an enthusiastic young fan named Dave Hogan.
Dave Hogan, a native of Invercargill, vividly recalls the excitement and anticipation he felt when he first heard about The Rolling Stones’ impending arrival in his town. As a devoted fan of the band, he was determined to meet his musical idols in person. Hogan’s passion for The Rolling Stones began with their song “Not Fade Away,” which he fell in love with after receiving a harmonica and a copy of the band’s music. Little did he know that his encounter with the band at the Invercargill airport would be a life-changing moment.
Accompanied by his mother, Hogan, dressed in his school uniform from Marist Brothers High School, nervously awaited the arrival of The Rolling Stones at the airport. Despite being the only fan present to greet the band, Hogan’s shyness quickly dissipated when his mother approached the band members and introduced him. This unexpected encounter led to a memorable interaction, where Hogan received autographs from The Rolling Stones and even shared a drink with them later that day.
Subheading 1: The Unforgettable Concert Experience
The highlight of The Rolling Stones’ visit to Invercargill was their legendary performance at the town’s Civic Theatre. Hogan, along with his brother, attended the concert where The Rolling Stones shared the stage with the renowned Roy Orbison. Despite not yet achieving the global recognition they would later acquire, The Rolling Stones captivated the audience with their blues-inspired sound and energetic performance. Songs like “Little Red Rooster,” “Not Fade Away,” and Chuck Berry classics resonated with the crowd, leaving Hogan in awe of the band’s talent and stage presence.
Subheading 2: A Lasting Influence on Invercargill’s Music Scene
Inspired by the electrifying performance of The Rolling Stones, Hogan and his friends formed a band called The Unknown Blues, paying homage to their musical influences. The band’s rebellious style, reminiscent of The Rolling Stones and The Pretty Things, challenged the conservative norms of Invercargill’s music scene. Their unconventional attire, long hair, and blues-rock sound set them apart from other local bands, paving the way for a new era of musical expression in the town.
In retrospect, Hogan fondly remembers the transformative impact of The Rolling Stones’ visit on Invercargill’s cultural landscape. The concert at the Civic Theatre, the chance encounters with the band members, and the formation of The Unknown Blues all contributed to a sense of liberation and creativity that reverberated throughout the community. Despite the passage of time, Hogan’s connection to The Rolling Stones remains strong, as he continues to cherish their music and the memories of that unforgettable era.
As The Rolling Stones celebrate 60 years since their historic tour of New Zealand, the legacy of their visit to Invercargill endures in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to witness it. From a chance encounter at the airport to a life-changing concert experience, the band’s presence left an indelible mark on the town and its people. As Hogan reflects on those magical moments from 1965, he echoes the sentiments of many who were touched by The Rolling Stones’ music and charisma – a sentiment of pure joy and inspiration that transcends time and generations.