Do Classic Rock Bands Like Journey, REO Speedwagon, and Def Leppard Get Fed Up Playing the Same Songs?

It's always a bittersweet moment for many of us when we hear a classic rock band playing their hit songs, especially those from the 1970s and 1980s, like Journey, REO Speedwagon, or Def Leppard. But, behind the stage, do these bands ever feel grateful for their enduring success or a tiny bit jaded by constantly performing the same hits over and over?

The Eternal Tune Odyssey

As a seasoned fan, I can't help but chuckle at the fact that these bands, often considered “classic rock” milestones, are still maintaining their popularity despite the fact that many consider them relics of a bygone era. But, my amusement turns into a bit of empathy when I think about the challenges these bands face in their daily lives. It's a safe assumption to believe that performing the same songs repeatedly can become monotonous even for the most dedicated musicians.

The Business Behind the Bumper Stickers

Many of you might be wondering, "Why do they continue to play the same hits? Isn't it time for them to innovate and create new sounds?" The simple answer? The financial incentive is too strong to ignore. For these bands, playing the hits secures them regular, lucrative gigs. Imagine the thrill of hitting the stage to a sea of fans who eagerly shout the choruses along with you – the response could be exhilarating in its uniformity. And yes, as a member of that sea, I can attest to the fact that the right hit can often bring the energy of a whole arena to its knees. The encouraging cheers and the applause can provide an unparalleled sense of fulfillment for the band members.

Feeling Burdened by Success

According to an interview with a band, perhaps Survivor, they have expressed some level of fatigue with performing the hits. However, the enormous fan base and the financial rewards keep them playing, even if it feels like a bit of a burden. The classic rock genre, in many ways, revolves around its core hits, and trying to introduce new material can be difficult without alienating a fan base that has built its identity around those hits.

A Job You'd Never Quit Even If You Won the Lottery

Let's take a step back and consider the analogy of having a job that pays you well, with people cheering and applauding every day. In fact, let's imagine that after each performance, fans are lining up for a post-show treat, like … maybe a nice, warm drink or, dare I say, a small favor? It's easy to understand why some musicians might find the rigors of touring rewarding, especially with the financial benefits. However, despite the seeming excitement, it's worth pondering if these musicians truly get their kicks from the excitement of playing each song, or if they're more motivated by the financial perks and the adoration from the crowd.

The Constant Struggle of Routine

For most people, the daily grind has few (if any) exceptions. The feeling of doing the same thing morning, noon, and night can lead to fatigue and burnout. But for musicians, the grind of touring, performing the same hits, and dealing with the same routine day in and day out can be even more wearisome. The band members must balance the joy they once felt in creating and performing music with the reality of the current situation. While fans might revel in the era of classic rock, the musicians often need a break from the relentless cycle of performing the same material over and over again.

Despite the challenges, these classic rock bands continue to resonate with audiences across the globe. Their music remains timeless, and the memories of those legendary performances continue to bring joy and nostalgia to rock enthusiasts everywhere. So, while some might wonder if the bands ever get tired of their hits, the undeniable truth is that these songs bridge a special connection between the past and the present, and that's something that should never be taken for granted.