On This Day in 1972, Led Zeppelin Postpones the Loudest Rock Concert in Australian History

Led Zeppelin remains one of the most iconic rock bands to ever exist. However, the band’s meteoric rise to global stardom during the late 1960s and early 1970s was a spectacle unlike any other, and the buzz surrounding their Australian tour in 1972 was no exception. By the time they embarked on their first Australian tour, Led Zeppelin had already released four albums that would define not just rock music but the very foundations of heavy metal. The band’s unique blend of lyrical depth and groundbreaking musicianship had captivated audiences across the globe, and Australia was eagerly awaiting their arrival.

The Highly Anticipated Australian Tour

Led Zeppelin’s Australian tour in 1972 marked a significant milestone in the band’s career, and anticipation was at an all-time high. With the release of albums like Led Zeppelin II, Led Zeppelin III, and Led Zeppelin IV, the band had solidified their place as a musical juggernaut. The Aussie fans were ready for what was going to be an unforgettable experience, with the promise of loud, electrifying performances that would go down in history.

The tour began on February 16, 1972, with the first show taking place at Subiaco Oval in Perth. However, it didn’t take long for things to get wild. The intense demand for tickets resulted in chaos at the venue, with fans going to extreme lengths to get close to the band. Reports suggest that hundreds of fans brought bolt cutters and ladders to scale fences in order to get a better view of the legendary rockers, leading to a riot outside the venue. The crowd’s fervor was proof of just how much Led Zeppelin had captivated the masses.

The Rainstorm and the Postponed Show

After Perth, Led Zeppelin was set to perform at Memorial Drive in Adelaide on February 18, 1972. In preparation for the gig, the band brought with them the largest PA system that Australia had ever seen, in an attempt to create the loudest concert the country had ever experienced. However, things quickly took a turn when the weather didn’t cooperate.

Heavy rainfall in the area caused significant problems. Local reports stated that the weight of the massive sound equipment, combined with the pouring rain, caused the stage to bow. As if that wasn’t enough, standing water on the stage made it dangerous for the band to perform, especially with the electric instruments they were using. In light of these hazards, the show was postponed, much to the dismay of eager fans who had been waiting for months for their chance to see Led Zeppelin live.

A Night to Remember: February 19, 1972

Although the postponement was disappointing, it didn’t take long for the excitement to build again. The band rescheduled the show for the following day, February 19, 1972. The night was even more incredible than anyone could have expected.

Creedence Clearwater Revival was also playing in Adelaide that night, taking the stage earlier in the evening. But it was Led Zeppelin’s turn to make history. As the clock struck, the band took to the stage at Memorial Drive, and the fans were in for a show they would never forget. The energy was palpable, and the sound system that had been delayed by the rain was finally unleashed on the crowd, marking a momentous night in rock history.

This concert was everything the fans had hoped for and more. With their iconic riffs, intricate compositions, and unmatched stage presence, Led Zeppelin delivered a performance that would live on in the hearts and minds of all who attended. For many, it was the loudest, most thrilling show they had ever experienced, cementing the band’s legendary status in Australian rock history.

Legacy of the Show

Led Zeppelin’s Australian tour in 1972 was a turning point in the band’s career. The delayed show in Adelaide on February 19, 1972, became a significant moment in rock history. Despite the earlier postponement due to the rainstorm, the concert’s energy and sheer volume exceeded all expectations, leaving the crowd in awe. The loudest concert in Australian history — once a bold claim — had now been achieved, and it was a fitting testament to the band’s immense talent and lasting influence on the world of music.

To this day, fans remember that night as one of the highlights of the 1972 tour and one of the most legendary moments in the history of rock concerts. It’s a perfect example of Led Zeppelin’s unrivaled place in the pantheon of rock greats.