Why Bill Medley of The Righteous Brothers Chose to Open for The Rolling Stones Instead of The Beatles
The Righteous Brothers, renowned for their soulful vocals and timeless hits, had the unique opportunity to serve as opening acts for two of the most iconic bands in music history: the Beatles and the Rolling Stones. Bill Medley, one half of the duo, reminisced about the whirlwind experience of sharing the stage with both legendary groups back in 1964.
Reflecting on their performances, Medley shared that opening for the Beatles during their historic first American tour was a memorable but challenging experience. The overwhelming frenzy of fans screaming for the Fab Four often overshadowed their own performance, as the audience anxiously awaited the arrival of John, Paul, George, and Ringo. The intense clamor and deafening chants of “We want The Beatles!” made it clear that the British invasion had taken the nation by storm.
In contrast, sharing the stage with the Rolling Stones, who were on the cusp of stardom with the release of their album “12 x 5,” provided a different atmosphere for the Righteous Brothers. The fanbase, while enthusiastic, was notably calmer and more focused on the music, allowing for a more musically immersive experience. Medley noted that the Stones were not yet the household name they would soon become, making their shows a more intimate and engaging experience for all involved.
Despite the different dynamics of the two tours, Medley emphasized that the experience of opening for the Beatles and the Rolling Stones was distinct yet equally significant. While performing with the Beatles was undeniably historic, the musical immersion and interaction with the audience at the Rolling Stones’ shows made those moments particularly memorable and enjoyable for the Righteous Brothers.
Following their groundbreaking performances alongside these rock legends, the Righteous Brothers continued to make their mark on the music industry. Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2003, the duo’s enduring legacy and timeless hits have solidified their place in music history. Medley, who currently tours as the Righteous Brothers with Bucky Heard, remains active in the music scene and is set to release a new album titled “Straight from the Heart,” featuring a collection of country songs that reflect his passion for storytelling through music.
As the music world continues to evolve, the Righteous Brothers’ legacy lives on, inspiring generations of music lovers with their soulful sound and timeless performances. Despite the passing of time, the impact of their historic performances alongside the Beatles and the Rolling Stones remains a testament to their enduring influence and musical prowess.