Many musicians have adopted pre-show superstitions. Getting up on stage and performing in front of huge crowds is more than a daunting task. We could see why you would want to get as much help as you could–even if it’s off-base. Below, find three pre-show rituals classic rock artists had to see through before they could perform.
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3 Unique Pre-Show Superstitions of Classic Rock Stars
1. Robert Plant’s Domestic Dogma
When Led Zeppelin got back together for a fateful night in 2007, Robert Plant’s pre-show ritual looked a whole lot different from the way he would ready for the stage back in the ’70s. In his matured state, Plant requested a quiet place backstage for him iron his shirts. The domestic chore apparently eased his mind enough to perform his best.
We could see how the tedious task could give the frontman something else to focus on, keeping his mind from wandering over the feat ahead of him. However, it’s not the first (or second or third) ritual you would expect a classic rocker to lean on.
2. Foo Fighters’ Don’t Start Till They Get Enough…Jägermeister
There is nothing like Michael Jackson to get you in the mood to move. At least that was the belief of the Foo Fighters when they opted to play Off the Wall every night before heading out on stage. The groovy sounds of Jackson’s 1979 album were just the ticket to get them show ready.
They paired that musical experience with a little liquid courage. According to Dave Grohl, the band would down a few Jägerbombs in preparation of their set. As far as classic rock rituals go, this is perhaps the most easily understood.
3. Keith Richards’ Pub Provisions
Lastly on our list of classic rock rituals, we have a request from Keith Richards. Richards, being the Brit he is, often requested a Shepherd’s Pie to be in his dressing room prior to heading out onto the stage. The pub treat acted as fuel for the caustic rock show he was set to play.
Apparently Richards was quite specific with his instructions concerning the Shepherd’s Pie as well. As the story goes, Richards wouldn’t let anyone else have the first bite. He needed to be the first one to cut into the English favorite or the ritual would be broken. They say you can’t always get what you want…Unless you’re Richards and then you absolutely can.
(Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images)
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