Best Live Albums: 50 Must-Hear Classic Records
The best live albums of all time capture the very essence of a band’s energy in concert, making you feel like you were actually there.
The best live albums capture the very essence of a band’s energy in concert and manage to make a listener feel like they were actually there for what, in many cases, are historic performances. Because it’s one thing creating magic in the studio. Doing it live is something else, adding a whole new level of excitement (and, often, creativity) to the music.
While you’re reading, listen to our Best Live Albums playlist here.
Here are just a few of the best live albums ever put to tape.
50: Diana Krall: Live In Paris (2002)
Verve Records has released live albums from dozens of great jazz singers down the years – including Billie Holiday, Anita O’Day, and Ella Fitzgerald – and one of their finest 21st-century releases is Canadian singer and pianist Diana Krall’s Live in Paris, recorded at the historic Olympia venue in the French capital. Krall, backed by a band that included guest jazz stars of the caliber of Michael Brecker and Christian McBride, swings through standards – including from the Gershwins, Cole Porter, and Harold Arlen – and brings her own sophisticated style to versions of modern classics by Billy Joel and Joni Mitchell (Krall delivers a delightful version of “A Case of You”). Live In Paris won a Grammy for Best Jazz Album.
49: Humble Pie: Performance: Rockin’ The Fillmore (1971)
This live double-album from English blues-rock band Humble Pie was recorded over two days in May 1971 at the famous Fillmore East Club in Manhattan, which closed a month later. Humble Pie were made up of singer and guitarist Steve Marriott, guitarist Peter Frampton, bassist Greg Ridley, and drummer Jerry Shirley. The best-selling single from the album was “I Don’t Need No Doctor.” which had been a hit for Ray Charles in 1966. There is also a great 20-minute jam on Dr. John’s “I Walk On Gilded Splinters,” which showed why Humble Pie were such a dynamic live act. Just before Performance was released, in November 1971, Frampton, who plays some fluid and powerful solos, left the band.
48: Dire Straits: Alchemy (1984)
Recorded over two nights at London’s Hammersmith Odeon, Alchemy is a showcase for Mark Knopfler, demonstrating why he is considered such a fine, fluid guitarist. The 11-minute version of “Sultans of Swing” features a mid-song guitar solo in which Knopfler fingerpicks with speed and dexterity, exemplifying what makes extended live versions of Dire Straits hits so popular with their fans. The same is true of the 14-minute “Telegraph Road.” Dire Straits were an accomplished live band and they were capable of altering the mood of a concert, shown in their delivery of slower, more contemplative songs “Romeo & Juliet,” “Love Over Gold,” and “Private Investigations.”
47: Cream: Wheels Of Fire (1968)
A double-album recorded between July 1967 and April 1968, Wheels Of Fire is a representative slice of Cream at their best. With Disc One recorded live (at Winterland Ballroom and Fillmore West) and Disc Two recorded at Atlantic Studios in New York, it is clear what Cream brought to both settings. Jack Bruce, Eric Clapton, and Ginger Baker have remarkable musical empathy and they combine for a superb rendition of Robert Johnson’s “Crossroads,” They also show their ability to bring something fresh to blues classics with a fine version of Howlin’ Wolf’s “Sittin’ On Top Of The World.” “Toad,” which is an epic 16-minute tour de force, includes one of the finest ever drum solos from Baker. The album topped the charts in the US and reached No.3 in the UK.
46: Beach Boys: Beach Boys Concert (1964)
One of the most popular music-related presents during Christmas 1964 was the Capitol Records release Beach Boys Concert: it became the first live album to reach No. 1 on the Billboard charts, a position it held for a month. At the time, The Beach Boys were superstars. The band had 17 single hits under their belts, including “I Get Around.” That catchy hit was one of the songs which prompted hysterical cheering from the crowd at the Civic Auditorium in Sacramento, in the band’s home state of California. As well as a selection of their own hits, including “Fun, Fun, Fun” and “Little Deuce Coupe,” the band showed off their fun side with versions of “Long Tall Texan” and the popular novelty hit “Monster Mash.” Beach Boys founder Brian Wilson, a born perfectionist, tidied up some of the tracks in the studio, including removing some organ lines that he didn’t like.
45: Rush: Exit… Stage Left (1981)
Exit… Stage Left was put together around the world: recorded in Scotland and Canada and edited and mixed in France. The album, Rush’s second live recording, was a re-affirmation of their progressive rock musical beliefs (“We didn’t change, everybody else did!” say the liner notes) and is a favorite among their fans. You can hear the audience singing along on “Closer To The Heart.” and other highlights include “Red Barchetta,” “Beneath, Between And Behind,” and “Jacob’s Ladder.” Alex Lifeson’s guitar blends with Geddy Lee’s huge bass tones and Neil Peart shows again why he was one of the best rock drummers in the world. The album reached No.6 in the UK and was certified platinum in America after selling a million copies.
44: Alison Krauss and Union Station: Live (2002)
As well as being a consummate fiddle player, Alison Krauss has one of the sweetest voices in modern country music. Her double live album, recorded at Kentucky’s Louisville Palace, captures Krauss and her first-class band – including dobro maestro Jerry Douglas – on top form. The songs are invigorating and include live versions of “Down to the River to Pray” and “I Am a Man of Constant Sorrow” (sung by mandolin player Dan Tyminski), two of the best songs from the award-winning Coen Brothers film O Brother, Where Art Thou. Union Station are a fantastic live band and this album showcases all that is best about Krauss.
43: Jerry Lee Lewis: Live at the Star Club Hamburg (1964)
Jerry Lee Lewis, who was born in 1935, is one of the founding titans of rock and roll and the singer-pianist’s live album, recorded at the Star Club in Hamburg, Germany, in 1964, is a superb reminder of the wild exuberance of a man who became known as The Killer. The crowd are in a frenzy as he delivers pulsating versions of defining rock songs such as “Great Balls of Fire,” “Whole Lotta Shakin’ Going On,” and “Good Golly Miss Molly,” all classics of piano-thumping energy. The album, released by the German division of Philips Records, captures a master performer at his best, delivering a show which encapsulates why crowd-pleasing rock and roll transformed the landscape of music.
42: Motörhead: No Sleep ’Til Hammersmith (1981)
One of the best live albums from the heavy metal era, No Sleep ’Til Hammersmith captures Lemmy Kilmister (singer and bassist), “Fast” Eddie Clarke (guitar), and Phil Taylor (drummer) in dynamic form. In the book Overkill: The Untold Story Of Motörhead, biographer Joel McIver describes No Sleep ’Til Hammersmith as “the peak of the Lemmy/Clarke/Philthy line-up’s career.” The album title was playful (it was recorded in Norfolk, Leeds, Newcastle and Belfast, and the band did not play London’s Hammersmith Odeon on the tour) and shows Motörhead in their natural element – playing fast, frenetic and forceful metal. Highlights include power-driven versions of “Bomber” and “We Are (The Road Crew)” and there is a nice touch from Lemmy, who says, “This is a slow one so you can get mellowed out,” before launching into a furious “Capricorn.”
41: Woodstock: Music from the Original Soundtrack and More (1970)
Engineer Eddie Kramer had the tricky task of recording the performances at the 1969 Woodstock counterculture festival – and he coped expertly with the problems of working with multiple acts, improvised setlists, technical glitches and the background noise of massive crowds, to capture one of the most iconic festival sets in music history. Woodstock was a defining musical phenomenon of the 1960s and the three-disc album Woodstock: Music from the Original Soundtrack and More features remarkable performances from Johnny Winter, Canned Heat, Sly & The Family Stone, The Jefferson Airplane, Santana, Joan Baez, Country Joe McDonald and Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young and Jimi Hendrix, all inspired by the energy and exuberance that was fed back from a huge crowd.
40: LCD Soundsystem: The Long Goodbye: LCD Soundsystem Live at Madison Square Garden (2014)
LCD Soundsystem’s clever fusion of dance music, electronic and post-punk, combined with sardonic lyrics, made them one of America’s most acclaimed and influential bands of the 21st century. Their 2011 farewell gig at New York’s Madison Square Garden was an epic: running for three hours and divided into five vinyl records, a live set that frontman James Murphy described as “a perfect swan-dive.” Among the 28 songs, there are riveting versions of “Dance Yrself Clean,” “New York,” “I Love You But You’re Bringing Me Down,” and the wistful “All My Friends.” The Long Goodbye is a fine testament to a seminal modern band.
39: Bob Seger and the Silver Bullet Band: Live Bullet (1976)
Detroit is one of the greatest musical cities in the world. As well as being the home of Motown, it’s noted for its production of rock stars such as Bob Seger. In 1976, he played at the city’s famous Cobo Hall venue and Capitol Records captured a musician at his peak – along with his slick Silver Bullet Band – in front of a hugely enthusiastic live crowd. The double album is atmospheric, upbeat and some of the songs performed – including versions of “Nutbush City Limits,” “Travelin’ Man,” and “Beautiful Loser” – became staples of radio play on Detroit’s radio stations. Although Seger admitted he had doubts about cutting a live album at that stage, his performance is mesmerizing, and there is a touching moment when implores the crowd to sing along with him, in a call-and-response format, on “Heavy Music.”
38: Sam Cooke: Live at the Harlem Square Club, 1963 (1963)
Sam Cooke’s 1963 live album, recorded at a small Miami nightclub called The Harlem Square Club in January 1963, is a non-stop rush of joy. The seven-piece backing band, which included Cornell Dupree on guitar and June Gardner on drums, offer pulsating support to soul singer Cooke, as he transforms hits such as “Cupid,” “Twistin’ the Night Away,” and “Chain Gang” into scorching jams, in front of a passionate audience. Cooke, who grew up singing gospel, has a magnificent voice and his extended version of the mournful “Bring It On Home To Me,” which includes a section of “You Send Me,” is a dazzling delight. Cooke was shot dead less than two years after the concert, aged just 33. This wonderful live concert, which was not released until 1985, is a fitting reminder of the raw power of one of soul’s masters.
37: Emmylou Harris: At the Ryman (1992)
Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium, home of weekly Grand Ole Opry live performances and radio broadcasts in the mid-20th century, is one of the most significant landmarks in country music. Emmylou Harris’s live album At the Ryman, recorded in 1991 with her brilliant all-acoustic Nash Ramblers Band, earned the singer a Grammy for country duo or group performance and ignited efforts to restore the Ryman to its former glory. Harris is a superb interpreter of songs, and as well as country classics such as “Half As Much” and “Cattle Call,” she also offers superb versions of modern classics, including Bruce Springsteen’s “Mansion on the Hill.” To top off a great country music concert, there is even a guest appearance by bluegrass founding father Bill Monroe.
36: Elvis Presley: Elvis (1968)
Elvis Presley’s live album Elvis – audio-only versions of the songs taken from the NBC television special Singer Presents… Elvis (commonly referred to as the ‘68 Comeback Special) – came at a time when the King of Rock and Roll told producer Bones Howe that “I want everyone to know what I can really do.” Presley, whose career had been in decline, is in inspired form, helped by the presence of his musical buddies from the 1950s. Drummer DJ Fontana and guitarist Scotty Moore, who took along the custom-built EchoSonic amplifier he’d used in the historic Sun Records sessions in 1955, brought out the best in Presley, in what Moore called a “fantastic jam session.” Dressed in black leather biker jacket and trousers, with slick black hair and sideburns, the charismatic Presley was in relaxed mood with the audience as he rattled through so many memorable songs, including “Hound Dog,” “Jailhouse Rock,” “Heartbreak Hotel,” and “Are You Lonesome Tonight?” The full concert version even includes rarities such as Presley tackling the Ray Charles classic “I’ve Got a Woman.” This is one of the greatest comeback concerts of all.
35: Cheap Trick: Cheap Trick At Budokan (1978)
At Budokan was the commercial breakthrough for Chicago quartet Cheap Trick, confirming them as one of the best live bands of the 70s. The concert, recorded at the indoor Nippon Budokan in Tokyo, featured seven songs written by guitarist Rick Nielson, including “Hello There.” Cheap Trick were immensely popular in Japan, and the band’s label there demanded that At Budokan included some new songs. One of them was the future hit “Need Your Love” (co-written by Nielson and bassist Tom Petersson) and a version of the old New Orleans classic “Ain’t That A Shame.” on which singer Robin Zander and drummer Bun E Carlos seemed to be having as much fun as the audience.
34: Jimi Hendrix: Band of Gypsys (1970)
Band of Gypsys was recorded on January 1, 1970, at the Filmore East in New York City, and captures Jimi Hendrix at his mesmerizing, innovative best. The guitarist singer, who died eight months later at just 27, was supported by new ensemble Band of Gypsys, which comprised Billy Cox on bass and Buddy Miles on drums. Hendrix was always a unique live performer – this is the man who famously burned his guitar at the 1967 Monterey Pop Festival – and he showed off his thrilling, extravagant guitar skills in some gorgeous solos. The album, released by Capitol, is a bluesy, psychedelic no holds‐barred triumph, which also showcases Hendrix’s skills as a composer, in tunes such as “Who Knows” and “Power to Love.”
33: Duke Ellington: Ellington at Newport (1956)
Celebrated jazz promoter George Wein, the man who founded both the Newport Jazz Festival and its folk counterpart, described pianist and composer Duke Ellington’s performance at the 1956 festival as “the greatest performance of Ellington’s career… It stood for everything that jazz had been and could be.” The concert features scintillating versions of Ellington’s own classic compositions – including “Sophisticated Lady,” “Black and Tan Fantasy,” and “Mood Indigo” – as well as the famous bandleader’s own lush piano playing. The concert also features some of the greatest soloists in jazz history, including Johnny Hodges on alto saxophone and Paul Gonsalves on tenor saxophone. The album is full of nostalgia and a wonderful memory of a glorious summer evening of yesteryear.
32: The Velvet Underground: 1969: The Velvet Underground Live (1969)
The Velvet Underground were at their best on stage and although the 1969 incarnation of the band lacked Nico, Andy Warhol, and John Cale, it was a dynamic, tight-knit unit, featuring Sterling Morrison, Lou Reed, Maureen Tucker and Doug Yule. The Velvet Underground was touring regularly in 1969, and their well-honed superb set was recorded at multiple venues, including the End of Cole Ave. club in Dallas and the Matrix in San Francisco. The album included fiery versions of “I’m Waiting For the Man,” “Femme Fatale,” and “I’ll Be Your Mirror.” Reed composed the song “Rock & Roll” and he later recorded his own version on his excellent 1974 solo live album Rock ‘n’ Roll Animal. Reed also wrote “What Goes On” and the nine-minute version on 1969: The Velvet Underground Live includes a splendid organ solo from Yule. This is a terrific concert album and an excellent introduction to one of the iconic bands of the 1960s.
31: MC5: Kick Out The Jams (1969)
Kick Out the Jams was the debut album by American proto-punk band MC5. It was recorded live because Elektra Records A&R chief Danny Fields believed that it would be the best way of capturing the band’s energy and excitement on record. The album was recorded over two nights at Detroit’s Grande Ballroom in 1968. Featuring Wayne Kramer on lead guitar and Roby Tyner on vocals, it reached No.30 on the Billboard album chart. The highlights include striking versions of “Ramblin’ Rose” and “I Want You Right Now,” the latter of which owed something to the sound of The Troggs.
30: Led Zeppelin: The Song Remains The Same (1976)
Three years after live tapes had been made at Madison Square Garden during Led Zeppelin’s record-breaking 1973 tour, guitarist Jimmy Page went into the studio to mix the songs for release as The Song Remains The Same. The album was released alongside a film of the concert. The band powered through versions of “Rock And Roll.” “Heartbreaker,” and “Whole Lotta Love,” and there is a 29-minute version of “Dazed And Confused” which shows off John Bonham’s skill as a percussionist. There is also a fine version of “Stairway To Heaven,” the Page and Plant song that remains one of the greatest works in 20th-century rock.
29: B.B. King: Live in Cook County Jail (1971)
Johnny Cash’s pioneering example of recording a live album in a prison was emulated by blues titan B.B. King in September 1970, when he went to Cook County Jail in Chicago to record this masterpiece. King’s Live In Cook County Jail stands next to his Live At The Regal and features superb performances of classics such as “Every Day I Have the Blues” and “Sweet Sixteen.” His guitar opening on “How Blue Can You Get?” is spell-binding and King holds the concert together with his own inimitable banter with the audience. King’s singing has never been better and the album features perhaps his greatest live version of the magnificent “The Thrill Is Gone,” in which the stirring horns from John Browning (trumpet), Louis Hubert (tenor saxophone), and Booker Walker (alto saxophone) take the place of the original version’s strings. This is King at his rapturous best.
28: The Band: The Last Waltz (1978)
Martin Scorsese’s The Last Waltz is one of the most immaculately filmed rock concerts in history, and the film – and double-album – preserves for posterity the final appearance of The Band, the brilliant group fronted by Robbie Robertson that had toured (frequently with Bob Dylan) for the previous 16 years. The concert was held at San Francisco’s Winterland Ballroom and the cast of supporting musicians is brilliant, forever cementing The Last Waltz’s reputation as one of the best live albums in rock history. As well as songs from Dylan, there are appearances from Joni Mitchell, Muddy Waters, and a rollicking Van Morrison singing “Caravan” as he performs one of the strangest high-kicking dances ever seen.
27: Van Morrison: It’s Too Late to Stop Now (1974)
Van Morrison was at the peak of his powers and touring with his greatest band– the eleven-piece Caledonia Soul Orchestra was a brilliant blend of blues, jazz and classical musicians – when he recorded the remarkable double live album It’s Too Late to Stop Now. Belfast-born Morrison is an unpredictable stage performer, but these shows – taken from concerts in London, Los Angeles and Santa Monica – are inspirational. The highlights include extended, improvisational versions of his own compositions “Saint Dominic’s Preview,” “Listen to the Lion,” and “Cyprus Avenue” (during which he cries out “it’s too late to stop now”), along with magnificent cover versions of songs that inspired him as a youngster, such as Sam Cooke’s “Bring it On Home to Me” and Sonny Boy Williamson’s “Help Me.”
26: Louis Armstrong: Satchmo At Symphony Hall (1947)
When Decca Records first released Louis Armstrong and the All-Stars’ 1947 concert, recorded at Boston’s Symphony Hall in the summer of 1951, the album became an instant best-seller. The best version to check out is the 2012 reissue, which included more than half an hour of music unheard since the original concert. Armstrong, who was nicknamed Satchmo, is one of the greatest American musicians of all and the trumpeter and singer was joined by a brilliant All Stars band that included vocalist/trombonist Jack Teagarden, clarinettist Barney Bigard, pianist Dick Cary, bassist Arvell Shaw, drummer “Big” Sid Catlett and singer Velma Middleton. This is a rollicking musical revue, with classics such as “When It’s Sleepy Time Down South” and “Tea for Two” and a haunting version of the anti-racism song “(What Did I Do To Be So) Black and Blue.” There will never be anyone quite like Louis Armstrong and this moving concert shows why.
25: Joni Mitchell: Miles of Aisles (1974)
Joni Mitchell’s lyrical insight and ability to capture the human experience has made her one of the greatest singer-songwriters of the modern era. On Miles of Aisles, the Canadian singer performs 18 tracks (16 of which reinvent songs from previously recorded albums), accompanied sometimes only by her own guitar or piano and sometimes by the intuitive support of a fine jazzy band called L.A. Express, who were made up of Tom Scott (woodwinds and reeds), Max Bennett (bass), John Geurin (drums and percussion), Robben Ford (lead guitar), and Larry Nash (electric piano). The songs, recorded with superb clarity at the Universal Amphitheatre in California, include sublime versions of “You Turn Me On, I’m A Radio,” “Big Yellow Taxi,” “Cold Blue Steel and Sweet Fire,” “Blue,” and “Love Or Money,” with Mitchell displaying her blissful falsetto on such beautiful, subtle lyrics. Miles of Aisles was Mitchell’s coming-of-age as a concert performer.
24: Simon & Garfunkel: The Concert in Central Park (1982)
Sometimes a great live concert is all about atmosphere – and there was plenty of that when folk duo Simon & Garfunkel reunited for their first live album, recorded in front of more than half a million people on the Great Lawn in Central Park, New York City, in September 1981. Art Garfunkel and Paul Simon were singing as well as ever, the between-songs riffs were light-hearted and uplifting – and occasionally spikey. The troubled former friends – reuniting for the first time in more than a decade – performed superb on-stage versions of some of the most indelible songs in modern popular music, including “Mrs Robinson,” “Homeward Bound,” “America,” “Still Crazy After All These Years,” “The Boxer,” “Bridge Over Troubled Water,” and “The Sound of Silence.” The duo’s marvellous vocal harmonies and compelling songs made for a truly memorable evening of music.
23: U2: Under A Blood Red Sky (1983)
Capturing a band on the cusp of greatness, Under A Blood Red Sky: Live At Red Rocks merits its reputation as one of the seminal concerts in U2’s decades-long career. The concert, which was also released as a video, was recorded at the stunning Red Rocks Amphitheatre in Colorado, in June 1983. The concert came after torrential downpours but despite the sodden conditions, singer Bono and the band (The Edge on guitar, Adam Clayton on bass and Larry Mullen on drums) put on a magnificent display of live rock, especially with a momentous version of “Sunday Bloody Sunday.” The footage of Bono carrying a white flag of peace during the song is one of the most iconic images in modern rock history.
22: Aretha Franklin: Aretha Live at Fillmore West (1971)
Bill Graham’s historic Fillmore West Concert Hall in San Francisco closed its doors forever as a music venue on July 4, 1971 – just a few months after Aretha Franklin’s show-stopping concerts. Thankfully, Franklin’s shows were captured for posterity and remain a lasting testament to the grace and power of a singer. The opening side of the original album was all covers, revealing the adroit way Franklin, who was 29 at the time, could be effervescent on a fast song such as Otis Redding’s “Respect” and slow and soulful on her delivery of Paul Simon’s “Bridge Over Troubled Water.” Franklin was also a talented pianist, as she shows on an achingly beautiful version of the Beatles’ “Eleanor Rigby.” Franklin is also accompanied by a first-class band that included King Curtis on saxophone, Bernard Purdie on drums, and Billy Preston on keyboards. Franklin has never sounded more emotional, and Live at Fillmore West remains an essential soul album.
21: Grateful Dead: Live/Dead (1969)
Grateful Dead were one of the most popular touring bands of the 60s and their live double-album from 1969 shows why. With no shortage of candidates to consider among the best live albums of all time, Live/Dead “was our first live release and it remains one of our best-loved albums,” said drummer Bill Kreutzmann. “Its appeal was that it took great “you-had-to-be-there” live versions of songs like “Dark Star” and “The Eleven” and put them right in people’s living rooms.” The artwork for the album was created by Robert Donovan Thomas and the music inside showcased the talents of band members such as Tom Constanten on organ. As well as stirring versions of the Dead’s own songs, including “Feedback.” there is also a moving blues cover of The Reverend Gary Davis’ classic “Death Don’t Have No Mercy,” on which Jerry Garcia sings with mournful elegance.
20: Iron Maiden: Live After Death (1985)
Iron Maiden’s live album from 1985 stands out, right down to the brilliant cover artwork from Derek Riggs. The music endures, too, with a setlist that offered a good selection from Iron Maiden’s first five studio albums. Even though Bruce Dickinson was suffering from a cold when some of the tracks were recorded at London’s Hammersmith Odeon, he sings well and the musicians, including bassist Steve Harris, are at the top of their game. They even weave in some of Winston Churchill’s famous “We shall fight on the beaches” speech as the introduction to “Aces High.” Listen out for a superb version of “The Number Of The Beast,” as guitarists Adrian Smith and Dave Murray are supported by drummer Nicko McBrian. The album is a heavy metal classic.
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19: Queen: Live at Wembley ’86 (1986)
Freddie Mercury was one of the most natural showmen in music and he gave one of his most charismatic displays as the frontman of Queen on a Saturday July afternoon in 1986, as part of the “Magic Tour,” in the old Wembley football stadium in London. “Freddie was amazing that day,” said guitarist Brian May. “It was a pinnacle for us. We were very good at that point and Freddie was stunning. He had worked out this amazing way of dealing with a whole stadium and becoming a connecting point.” The 100,000 crowd played their part in making this an amazing concert, including the gleeful way, in unison, they joined in with bare-chested ringmaster Mercury as he led the packed stadium audience in a clapping, singalong version of drummer Roger Taylor’s joyous song “Radio Ga Ga.” Queen were a band who revelled in the arena setting – and they excelled themselves on that fine summer’s day.
18: Lynyrd Skynyrd: One More From The Road (1976)
One More From The Road was Lynyrd Skynyrd’s first live album and was released a year before the plane crash that killed lead singer and songwriter Ronnie Van Zant along with Steve and Cassie Gaines. Van Zant’s singing is tender on “Searching” and “The Needle And The Spoon,” and the band, whose influences included rock, blues, and country, deliver a powerful version of the Jimmy Rodgers classic “T For Texas.” The guitar work of Steve Gaines, Allen Collins, and Gary Rossington is superb throughout and Lynyrd Skynyrd offer up two fine versions of “Crossroads” in a tribute to Robert Johnson.
17: Deep Purple: Made In Japan (1972)
Recordings of three concerts in Osaka and Tokyo in August 1972 were collated into the live double-album Made In Japan, which captures the line-up of Ian Gillan (vocals), Ritchie Blackmore (guitar), Jon Lord (organ), Roger Glover (bass) and Ian Paice (drums) at their explosive best. There are plenty of songs from the Machine Head album, including the seminal “Smoke On The Water.” The whole of the fourth side is taken up by a 20-minute thrashing version of “Space Truckin’.”
16: Grand Funk Railroad: Live Album (1970)
The immortal Grand Funk Railroad made their debut in front of 100,000 screaming kids at the Atlanta Pop Festival in 1969 and went on to become one of the most popular live bands of their era, despite their unpopularity with rock critics of the time. Their first live album, released by Capitol Records in November 1970, captures the sheer excitement of their stage work, especially the wild singing from Mark Farner, the steady bass grooves of Mel Schacher and the powerful drumming from Don Brewer. Grand Funk, as they were known, were a loud, dynamic band. Farmer wrote most of the songs, including the popular “Mean Mistreater,” and the album was curated from performances during a hectic tour that took in Jacksonville, Orlando and West Palm Beach.
15: Neil Young And Crazy Horse: Live Rust (1979)
Recorded in October 1978 at the Cow Palace in San Francisco, Live Rust was originally released as a double-album and was the soundtrack to the concert film documenting Neil Young’s Rust Never Sleeps. Young is no stranger to concert recordings, but Live Rust easily ranks among the best live albums he made. Young plays guitar and harmonica deftly as he reels off introspective songs such as “Sugar Mountain,” “I Am A Child,” and “Comes A Time,” then, showing his versatility, he moves to piano to deliver a haunting version of his brilliant song “After The Gold Rush.” There is also a stunning version of “Powderfinger.” A master musician captured at his peak.
14: Thin Lizzy: Live And Dangerous (1978)
After their album Bad Reputation reached No.4 in the UK Top 10 in 1977, Thin Lizzy decided that a live album was the way to go – a sensible decision for a band who excelled in concert. Tony Visconti was chosen by guitarist and lead vocalist Phil Lynott as the man to produce the album and he worked on the final mix at the Studio Des Dames in Paris, overdubbing to achieve a more uniform sound. Live And Dangerous was also a big hit and U2 claim the album as an early influence. The guest musicians include Huey Lewis, credited as “Bluesey Lewis” on harmonica on “Baby Drives Me Crazy.”
13: Peter Frampton: Frampton Comes Alive! (1976)
“We’d like to get a bit funky now,” says guitarist and singer Peter Frampton as he introduces “Doobie Wah,” another upbeat and joyous track on Frampton Comes Alive!, which was in the charts for 97 weeks following its release in 1976. (One of the best live albums of its era, it was also voted Album Of The Year in the Rolling Stone poll that year.) Frampton, who was 26 at the time, was backed by Bob Mayo on rhythm guitar, piano, Fender Rhodes, electric piano and Hammond organ, Stanley Sheldon on bass and John Siomos on drums. The album produced the hit singles “Show Me The Way,” “Baby, I Love Your Way,” and “Do You Feel Like We Do,” and also included a rousing seven-minute version of The Rolling Stones’ classic “Jumpin’ Jack Flash.”
12: Frank Sinatra & Count Basie: Sinatra at The Sands (1966)
“Frank Sinatra was at the height of his powers then and I was steering his musical ship, the greatest band in the world,” recalled Quincy Jones, who was the conductor and provided the scintillating arrangements for the album Sinatra at The Sands, which was recorded over seven nights at the Copa Room stage, at The Sands Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, in front of about 600 people. The backing band Jones praised was led by the hard-swinging, gorgeously rhythmic Count Basie. His collection of jazz stars provided the perfect backing for Sinatra’s voice to glide effortlessly over classics such as “Fly Me to the Moon,” “One O’Clock Jump,” and “Come Fly with Me.” Basie’s piano playing, the sweet trumpet tones of Harry “Sweets” Edison, the honeyed tenor sax playing of Eddie “Lockjaw” Davis and the rich vocals of Sinatra, made for a perfect musical combination. Sinatra was a compelling live performer and this Sands show is the definitive Sinatra live album and a vivid reminder of what can happen when musical greats meet.
11: Bob Marley And The Wailers: Live! (1975)
The Live! version of “No Woman, No Cry” immediately became the definitive recording of the song, which is enough to earn its parent album a place among the best live albums. The recording also became Bob Marley’s first hit, reaching No.22 in the UK chart when it was released as a single in 1975. It would later reach No.8 in the UK when it was re-released after Marley’s death, in 1981; while it never charted in the US, the song would later be ranked at No.37 in Rolling Stone’s Greatest Songs Of All Time.
One of the transcendent albums of the modern pop era, Live! was recorded on July 18, 1975, at the second of two sold-out shows at the Lyceum Ballroom in London, and released in the UK on December 5 the same year. The line-up of The Wailers that arrived in London comprised the long-standing rhythm section of Aston Barrett (bass) and Carlton Barrett (drums) together with Al Anderson (lead guitar), Tyrone Downie (keyboards), Alvin Patterson (percussion) and a depleted vocal section of Rita Marley and Marcia Griffiths (Judy Mowatt missed the London shows). Live! also boasts brilliant versions of “Trenchtown Rock,” “Burnin’ And Lootin’,” “I Shot The Sheriff,” and “Get Up, Stand Up.” The album is a spiritual and musical wonder.
10: Bob Dylan: The Bootleg Series Vol. 4: Bob Dylan Live 1966, The Royal Albert Hall Concert (1966)
Although 1974’s Before the Flood is one of the quintessential Bob Dylan albums, perhaps his finest live recording is the snappily-titled The Bootleg Series Vol. 4: Bob Dylan Live 1966, The Royal Albert Hall Concert, which was finally released officially in 1998 after being one of the most sought-after “underground” recordings in music. Although titled “Royal Albert Hall,” the album was in fact recorded at Manchester’s Free Trade Hall. It captures a remarkable musician during a turbulent time of transformation. The set list was split into two parts, with the first half of the concert showcasing Dylan alone on stage, performing entirely acoustic songs, while the second half of the concert has Dylan playing a set alongside his band the Hawks, with Robbie Robertson and Dylan on electric guitars. This break from folk tradition prompted heckling, with one fan shouting “Judas” at Dylan. Both sides of Dylan were brilliant, however, from the stripped down, harmonica-driven “Mr. Tambourine” of the opening half, to the energized electric version of “Like a Rolling Stone” that closes the second part.
9: Johnny Cash: At Folsom Prison (1968)
Johnny Cash’s concert at Folsom State Prison, California, on January 13, 1968, is one of the best live albums in country music. Cash, whose hits such as “I Walk The Line” and “Ring Of Fire” had made him a household name, knew all about human frailty; his empathy with the prisoners drew out a magnificent live performance. The set included his 1955 hit “Folsom Prison Blues” (the chilling song about someone who shoots a man in Reno “just to watch him die”) and he also delivered an impassioned version of the traditional song “Dark As A Dungeon.” A raw and honest masterpiece.
8. KISS: Alive! (1975)
Culled from numerous concerts, Alive! (released in the autumn of 1975) made KISS rock’n’roll superstars; it climbed into the Top 10 and its accompanying single, “Rock And Roll All Nite,” made it to No.12. The album has everything a heavy metal fan could want: from Gene Simmons, “The Demon,” pounding away on bass, to Paul Stanley’s guitar antics and Peter Criss’ driving drum work. The band’s youthful energy is contagious, and the album’s thumping electric versions of their finest early material easily makes this one of the best live albums of all time.
7: Bruce Springsteen & the E Street Band Live/1975-85 (1986)
Bruce Springsteen is a performing phenomenon: inspiring, passionate, tender and overflowing with energy. His five-disc live album finds him at his best, spread over a decade of performances, and backed by his celebrated The E Street Band (which included Steve Van Zandt on guitar and the late Clarence Clemons on saxophone). Among the most thrilling songs are versions of his own classics “Independence Day,” “Thunder Road,” and “Racing In the Street,” along with sensational covers of Tom Waits’s “Jersey Girl” and Woody Guthrie’s “This Land is Your Land.” This retrospective, recorded in clubs, concert halls and stadiums across the United States, is a masterful career summary of a legend of American music, a singer who connects all the important strands of the rock tradition of his country. Springsteen’s version of his own 1970s anthem “Born to Run” is a particular triumph and this soaring album demonstrates the wonderful power of live music.
6: Talking Heads: Stop Making Sense (1984)
One of the memorable fashion statements of 80s pop was David Byrne’s “big suit,” and the showmanship of Talking Heads was in full flow on their live album Stop Making Sense. There is a rousing version of “Psycho Killer.” powered by a horn section and powerful backing singers, and “Take Me To The River” is mesmerizing. This 1984 concert film and its soundtrack (the first rock movie made using entirely digital audio techniques) showed why this edgy, intelligent band were such fun.
5: James Brown And The Famous Flames: Live At The Apollo (1963)
James Brown originally put out this live concert, recorded at the Apollo Theater in Harlem in October 1962, on his own King Records. Live At The Apollo captures The Godfather Of Soul as a young, vibrant singer, brilliantly backed by his vocal trio, The Famous Flames, who were Bobby Byrd, Bobby Bennett, and Lloyd Stallworth. The heart-wrenching “Please, Please, Please” kicks off a mighty eight-song medley before the album closes with an impassioned version of Jimmy Forrest’s blues song “Night Train.” Brown is on top form on a night that captures his ability to hold a crowd in the palm of his hand.
4: Nirvana: MTV Unplugged In New York (1994)
Towards the end of 1993, with MTV’s Unplugged series enticing more and more artists to perform acoustically, Nirvana filmed a performance for the show. It was released on the album MTV Unplugged In New York, and “About A Girl’ was its only single – posthumously for the song’s writer, Kurt Cobain, who died six months earlier. The album, certified five times platinum, won the Grammy award for Best Alternative Music Album and features potent versions of “Dumb” and “All Apologies.” There is also a cover of David Bowie’s “The Man Who Sold The World.” Drummer Dave Grohl, who went on to form Foo Fighters, sings backing vocals on the parody song “Jesus Wants Me For A Sunbeam.” The album stands as testimony to Cobain’s talent and versatility.
3: The Rolling Stones: Get Yer Ya-Ya’s Out!: The Rolling Stones In Concert (1970)
Get Yer Ya-Ya’s Out! was recorded in November 1969 in Baltimore and at New York’s Madison Square Garden, and was the first live album to reach No.1 on the UK charts. Its tongue-in-cheek cover photo of Charlie Watts was shot by David Bailey, while the title came from a song by blue singer Blind Boy Fuller, who spent time in prison for shooting his wife in the leg. The tour was the first time that Mick Taylor had played extensively with the band, after he replaced Brian Jones in the group. But you’d be hard-pressed to tell the band was getting used to a new member. Mick Jagger and co are having unadulterated fun on the album, shown in a swaggering version of “Midnight Rambler” and “Sympathy for the Devil.” Keith Richards’ guitar work is sizzling and an exuberant show ends with fine versions of “Honky Tonk Women” and “Street Fighting Man.” The deluxe version includes songs by the additional performers of the caliber of BB King and Tina Turner. Get Yer Ya-Ya’s Out! is one of the quintessential rock albums of all time from the great Rolling Stones.
2: The Allman Brothers Band: At Fillmore East (1971)
Following the demise of the brothers’ fledgling bands The Second Coming and Hourglass, Duane and Gregg Allman formed their celebrated self-titled band and, in 1971, they laid down one of the best live albums in history at the famous Fillmore East venue in New York. Vocalist Gregg (on organ and piano) and guitarist Duane are joined by guitarist Dickey Betts, harmonica player Thom Doucette, congo player Jai Johanny Johanson, drummer Butch Trucks, and percussionist Bobby Caldwell. The engaging mix of blues and rock is evident on versions of Blind Willie McTell’s “Statesboro Blues” and classics such as “Stormy Monday,” “Trouble No More,” and “Done Somebody Wrong.” Overall, this stirring blend of guitar, drums, and Hammond B3 organ creates the identifiable Allman “Wall Of Sound.” At Fillmore East remains a true classic from the early 70s.
1: The Who: Live At Leeds (1970)
By the end of the 60s, The Who had gained a reputation as one of the greatest live rock bands in the world, and Live At Leeds deservedly heads this list of the best live albums in history. Described on release by the New York Times as the “best live rock album ever made,” it was recorded on the university campus at Leeds, England, in February 1970, and includes some bold song choices, including a version of “Young Man Blues,” written by master jazz songwriter Mose Allison. The Who also covered Sonny Boy Williamson’s “Eyesight To The Blind.” As well as their own early hits such as “I Can’t Explain” and “Happy Jack,” there is an extended version of “Tommy.” A medley at the end featured “My Generation” and “Magic Bus.” which allowed guitarist Pete Townshend to strut his stuff alongside bassist John Entwistle and drummer Keith Moon. “There was hardly anything dubbed on it – there were more things taken off than put on,” said singer Roger Daltrey. “We even pulled a lot of the crowd out because it was distracting to listen to.” Sensational.
Think we missed one of the best live albums of all-time like AC/DC’s If You Want Blood, You’ve Got It or Iggy and the Stooges’ Metallic K.O.? Let us know in the comments below. And check out our Best Live Albums playlist here.
Max Palfenier
September 2, 2014 at 7:31 pm
No Little Feat (Waiting For Columbus)? You’re kidding….
Jeff
September 4, 2014 at 3:43 pm
Little Feat should be top 5 for sure
SueZ
September 4, 2014 at 4:09 pm
so glad someone else pointed out that Little Feat’s Waiting For Columbus was omitted. One of the best!
Dave
September 4, 2014 at 10:41 pm
What would one expect from a site that includes Motorhead in the “music” catogory…..
pat mcgowan
September 5, 2014 at 9:38 pm
or iron maiden, or cheap trick? what about wishbone ash live dates or ten years after live? there is alot missing, maybe this list should be bigger!
Sam Smiley
September 6, 2014 at 9:46 pm
Wishbone, LIVE DATES should be there
jeff B
November 11, 2014 at 10:02 pm
What a glaring omission.Live dates is one of my favorite albums of all time.What about Lou Reed Rock and Roll Animal.What Schmucks made this list ?
Alex Stojkovic
December 21, 2015 at 8:08 am
Oh! Band of Gypsies! Not mainstream, but sensational
C.R. Krieger
September 8, 2017 at 5:46 pm
Cheap Trick is at #13.
Rah55
November 10, 2014 at 6:18 pm
if Waiting for Columbus isn’t on the list….you did it wrong
KISS at number 5…………….really?
Al
September 11, 2018 at 1:52 pm
PLUS ONE !!!!! I wore one out
Joe I
September 2, 2014 at 7:35 pm
the Who #1? now I know this is a bullshit list
MC515
September 2, 2014 at 11:38 pm
Absolutely The Who at number one. Are you being sarcastic? Live at Leeds is the best!
craig
September 3, 2014 at 1:06 pm
obviously your taste is in your ass if you dont agree, it is and always will be #1 douche
Mike
September 20, 2014 at 12:09 pm
I can understand disappointment in omissions, but there cannot honestly be any dispute regarding Live At Leeds.
Tim
June 5, 2016 at 8:39 pm
You are insane! No one could or can touch The Who from 69 to 72!
Darrell
September 4, 2017 at 3:39 am
Yeah GFR WAS THE BEST LIVE BAND! Missing Seger’s Live Bullitt also!
Darrell
September 4, 2017 at 3:42 am
Sorry but number wise and everything else considered GFR Even blew away the Beatles. Sold out Shea in 72 hours and it took the Beatles a few weeks.
Tim
September 2, 2014 at 7:42 pm
No “James Gang Live At Carnegie Hall?”
Mykeeb33
September 2, 2014 at 7:42 pm
James gang live should be in there somewhere.
Alberto
September 2, 2014 at 7:47 pm
Cheap trick nr. 12 and Humble Pie nrb 25????? I don’t believe it.
Ian
September 2, 2014 at 7:59 pm
Yes, definitely some things out of whack here .. and to include ANY Talking Heads crap on ANY rock list is nutz,, that singer sounds like he has diarrhea, so the songs are certain shite
Ian
October 13, 2018 at 8:45 am
You’re an idiot – that TH tour and film/LP are sublime.
Alex Stojkovic
December 21, 2015 at 8:14 am
Alberto, are u disappointed that Humble Pie should b rated higher or lower? Rockin the fillmore is one of my favourites
Ollie McCarthy
March 20, 2019 at 9:00 pm
lAbsolutely! Humble Pie’s Rockin’ The Fillmore should be near the top somewhere (& is my personal favourite)
Laurence
September 2, 2014 at 7:50 pm
What happened to Janis Joplin The Doors Hendrix, Beatles,and the list goes on COME ON
GET WITH IT
Pete
September 3, 2014 at 12:37 pm
OK – name ONE decent live Beatles album?
thomas
September 2, 2015 at 6:14 pm
THe Beatles Live at the Hollywood bowl. I’ve got the album but it has never been released digitally.A fine recording .
Mike
September 2, 2015 at 9:55 pm
the Concert for Bangeladesh
Mike
September 2, 2015 at 9:59 pm
the Concert for Bangladesh
Chaim Caran
September 6, 2016 at 1:55 pm
Yeah The concert for Bangladesh is absolutely missed in this list. What about Woodstock ?
Chaim Caran
September 6, 2016 at 1:55 pm
Yeah The concert for Bangladesh is absolutely missed in this list. What about Woodstock ?
TIM
September 10, 2014 at 11:50 pm
KISS ? JESUS CHRIST!! NOW I KNOW THEY’RE SHITTEN ME
Kenny Doms
September 2, 2014 at 7:50 pm
No Grand Funk Live – shame on your list.
Simon Rogers
September 2, 2014 at 7:51 pm
Warren Zevon ‘Stand in the Fire’ knocks out several of these.
Simon
September 2, 2014 at 7:54 pm
Warren Zevon ‘Stand in the Fire’ beats most of these.
Michael
September 2, 2014 at 7:58 pm
Where is Bob Seger’s “Live Bullet” ?
Ben
September 5, 2014 at 7:40 am
I agree…,Bob Seger-Live Bullet and Grand Funk-Caught in the act
Lisa
September 6, 2014 at 12:09 am
Bob Seger live bullet!
Live from Woodstock
The concert for George Harrison(live)!
Monterey Pop Festival
Simon
September 2, 2014 at 7:59 pm
Not to forget ‘Benny Goodman Live at the Carnegie Hall’
Tom Yuknis
September 2, 2014 at 7:59 pm
Where is Little Feat ” Waiting for Columbus” ? No live album list is
complete without this album.
steve
September 6, 2016 at 4:25 pm
absolutely!
Jo Ann
September 7, 2016 at 3:28 pm
You got that right. That would be my first pick.
Phil Wright
September 2, 2014 at 8:01 pm
Some of these are not true live albums ie Kiss Alive..overdubs of crowd noise etc.. Compiled from different shows etc…
Roy Mabbett
September 2, 2017 at 8:31 pm
Kiss r shit . Always have been posers.
Charlie brandt
September 2, 2014 at 8:05 pm
Band of gypsies, jimi Hendrix. Your list is a joke for the fact that jimi is not on it!!!
Alex Stojkovic
December 21, 2015 at 8:16 am
Yep, gr8 album. In my top 5
Iggie Kane
September 2, 2014 at 8:05 pm
James Brown should have been number 1. Also ac/DC “if you want blood” should be there
mike whiteaker
September 2, 2014 at 8:06 pm
grand funk live was a good one. free live and welcome back friends the show never ends, elp.
Werner
September 2, 2014 at 8:06 pm
The first live album by the Golden Earring should have been on this list.
antonio salazar
September 2, 2014 at 8:06 pm
I would agree with most but leaving Jimmi Hendrix, aside is a serious mistake, others left outside, Traffic, Johnny Winter,AC/DC,Genesis, Eric Clapton, the Doors (Absolutely Live, got to be ranking among the very 5 first) Tina Turner, Roxy Music David Bowie and more contemporary Guns & Roses.This is just mentioning a few MIA, Do your homework better.
Alex Stojkovic
December 21, 2015 at 8:18 am
Johnny Winter And Live is in my top 10
Mykeeb
June 26, 2016 at 9:06 pm
Yes, Johnny Winter live!
mark
November 18, 2016 at 6:37 pm
…JW ‘And Live still brings tears to my eyes when listening to JJF R.I.P Johnny!!
Steve
September 4, 2017 at 10:36 pm
ABSOFRIGGINLUTELY! Based on Jumpin’ Jack Flash alone! Sh^t! The Rolling Stones were so blown away by the energy he brought to that song, they wrote a song for him! Silver Train. He was robbed… he’s been robbed his whole career. He had to die to win a friggin Grammy!
Adam Brazee
September 2, 2014 at 8:14 pm
What about Strangers in the Night???????? UFO is criminally underrated.
Frank
September 2, 2014 at 8:14 pm
All great albums , but the order. A little wacky ……
Dave
September 7, 2016 at 5:27 am
They drew them out of a hat to avoid “controversy” !
Steve
September 2, 2014 at 8:15 pm
Wow, so many missing. Led-Zeppelin “Song Remains the Same”, Bob Dylan “Bootleg series volume 4”, Genesis “Genesis live 1973” , Jimi Hendrix “Woodstock” or Band of Gypsies “live at the filmore”, Pink Floyd “Ummagumma”, Ramones “It’s Alive”, Muddy Waters “At newport 1960” I coould go on and on with albums you missed and yet you have U2 on here. U2? Really?
Mark
September 3, 2014 at 12:38 pm
As someone who was at the U2 Red Rocks show. It was an incredible show at an incredible venue. The fact that it’s an EP is why it shouldn’t be on the list. A list of 25 is too short. Should probably be a list of 100. Way too many great live records not on this list.
David Guite
September 4, 2014 at 6:53 am
The Song remains the same is there…@ 21
leigh williams
June 5, 2016 at 11:31 am
Led Zep. is there but yes, Genesis live should be.
Michael Koehler
September 2, 2014 at 8:17 pm
I would add Focus Live At The Rainbow, John Hiatt (?) Iive at Budokan, and definitely Grand Funk live 75
Frank Antich
September 2, 2014 at 8:20 pm
What about “FOGHAT LIVE”?
Vince
September 2, 2014 at 8:28 pm
A good list, although I would’ve added Wings Over America by Wings and Eric Clapton’s Unplugged. Although Clapton’s 24 Nights was also excellent, not sure if I’d consider that one top 25 material.
ralph sportsport
December 27, 2015 at 9:44 am
CLAPTON – LIVE AT BUDOKAN
Dean Smith
September 2, 2014 at 8:29 pm
Mötley Crüe Carnival of Sins
David
September 2, 2014 at 8:31 pm
Oh come on….Deep Purple’s “Made in Japan” is a Top Three pick if not the No. 1! Putting Frampton and Nirvana ahead of this is just poppycock.
robert
September 5, 2014 at 12:29 pm
Yep. Wot he said
Alex Stojkovic
December 21, 2015 at 8:22 am
Yep, gr8 album. In my top 5
Alex Stojkovic
December 21, 2015 at 8:31 am
Gotta agree with u on “Made in Japan”. I like the Nivana live, although I wouldn’t rate it up there. Frampton comes alive is worthy of any rating. So good. Frampton also features on Humble Pies “Rockin in the fillmore
Phil G
September 2, 2014 at 8:44 pm
U forgot a couple… Mott the Hoople Live & Whitesnake, In the Heart of the City
Martin Martyn
September 2, 2014 at 8:46 pm
Would be some changes if I had compiled it… Kiss? Motorhead? and as Alberto commented Cheap trick before Humble Pie, Johnny Winter And Live should be near the top also… It’s R&R at it’s finest!
Paul
January 20, 2015 at 3:56 am
ok, guys, there are a few to be mentioned that really should be in here: Space Ritual, Hawkwind, James Gang Live, Absolutely Live, the Doors, Live Evil, Black Sabbath (like really, no Sabbath?), Yessongs, Yes, Robin Trower Live, Strangers In the Night, UFO, Grand Funk Live. sure, I’m listing what some have come up with, like Band of Gypsies, Jimi Hendrix, but don’t forget that some are not even in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. one I know I forgot is Fandango, ZZ Top, and also Live with the Edmonton Orchestra, Procol Harum ( where Trower came from). the committies that do these things really reconsider what are the greatest bands are, and where a corresponding live album fits in, like a top 100 or so greatest live album fits. I tend to check some links I get into, and I find that when a group makes a live album, it will get the highest rating possible
Lupe
September 2, 2014 at 8:46 pm
No Hendricks..?? ..
mone
September 2, 2014 at 8:50 pm
No Hendrix live at the Fillmore? No Robin Trower Live? UFO Strangers In The Night?
P Kelly
December 15, 2017 at 8:14 pm
Sadly the list is a rather predicatable one which almost by default feels that certain artists have to be there. I do not think that The son remains the same is a very good album and that Zeppelin themselves agree this is not the best representation of their live efforts. On the other hand Made in Japan is a great live album. Pleasing to see some one aware of how great an album Robin Trower live is with one of those rare live drum solos that is enjoyable to hear not least because it does not go on for +15 minutes. Other notable omissions: Free Live, Foghat Live, JethroTull’s Bursting out, Pat Metheny Group Travels, and yes; Little Feet, Hawkwind, Skynrd ought to be in there. And dare i say it is Who live at Leeds with its rock and roll medley type (no Baba O reilly or Won’t get fooled again) really so great?
Lasse Eriksson
September 2, 2014 at 8:58 pm
Well, like Rush, but don’t like exit stage left that much,…
But, Non-US, old double vinyl, Status Quo – Live ! that got some live feel and energy to it.
Ian Jd Andrews
December 27, 2015 at 1:02 am
would agree with you, I think that a show of Hands is the better live album by Rush
Jo:E
September 2, 2014 at 9:05 pm
We want to see STEPPENWOLFs Born to be Wild!
Paul
January 20, 2015 at 4:09 am
yeah, Steppenwolf Live is a great album. I’ve got it, and really appreciate music like that.
Martin Martyn
September 2, 2014 at 9:08 pm
No Johnny Winter and Live? Motorhead? Kiss? Iron Maiden? WTF………..
llonga
September 2, 2014 at 9:21 pm
Totalmente de acuerdo es un disco que cuando lo oyes parece que lo estas viviendo en directo
Kevin Coradeschi
September 2, 2014 at 9:26 pm
No Dead? Europe 72? Really bad choices.
Ross Anderson
September 2, 2014 at 9:33 pm
Where are The Doors, Grand Funk Railroad, UFO? Kiss, hahahaha, The Allman Bros, hohoho, who made up this list?
billy
September 5, 2014 at 5:20 pm
Really? Anyone that would question the ABB being at No. 2 (or higher) has zero taste. The album has been known to be one of the top live albums of all time since it came out over 40 years ago.
zivko
December 2, 2014 at 7:05 pm
Totally agree Billy, The ABB at the Fillmore is an incredible live recording of musical improv genius, period. If you haven’t heard it do your self and soul a favor!!
mark
September 5, 2014 at 8:22 pm
Allman Bros. at the Fillmore is definitely deserving, probably should be #1.
zivko
December 2, 2014 at 7:08 pm
Totally agree Billy, The ABB at the Fillmore is an incredible live recording of musical improv genius, period. If you haven’t heard it do your self and soul a favor!!
Richard Breault
December 27, 2014 at 5:51 pm
Allman Brothers Band #1,.. Now and Always,…Fillmore East,… is a fantastic Double Live Album!!
Kevin
September 2, 2014 at 9:33 pm
So many left out! ELVIS’ Aloha from Hawaii, YES’ Yessongs, ELP Welcome Back My Friends…, Allman Brothers At Fillmore East, KANSAS Two For The Show, Clapton One More Car, DYLAN/The Band Before The Flood, Kenny Wayne Shepherd Live in Chicago, Tedeschi-Trucks Band Everybody’s Talkin, Springsteen Live 75-85, Joe Jackson Live 80-86, Dave Mason Certified Live, Zappa Live @ Fillmore East LOTS MORE!
David Guite
September 4, 2014 at 6:58 am
Allman Brothers live at fillmore east is at no.2…. if I’m not mistaken, Kevin
Kevin
September 6, 2014 at 10:38 pm
Sorry David!
John
July 19, 2016 at 5:05 pm
ELP-Welcome Back My Friends, Springsteen Live 75-85, Dylan/The Band-Before the Flood, NOW YER TALKIN’!!!, Let’s add Talking Heads-Stop Making Sense, The Band-The Last Waltz, CSNY- 4Way Street, Genesis-Seconds Out, Warren Zevon-Stand in the Fire, George Harrison-Live in Japan, Wings-Wings Over America, Loggins & Messina-Onstage or Finale. I could go on forever!
John
July 19, 2016 at 5:25 pm
Note to self: Read list thoroughly before posting.
John
July 19, 2016 at 5:20 pm
ELP-Welcome Back My Friends, Springsteen Live 75-85, Dylan/The Band-Before the Flood, NOW YER TALKIN’!!!, Let’s add CSNY- 4Way Street, Genesis-Seconds Out, Warren Zevon-Stand in the Fire, George Harrison-Live in Japan, Wings-Wings Over America, Loggins & Messina-Onstage or Finale. I could go on forever!
Barry
September 2, 2014 at 9:33 pm
Where is GFR Live and Full House by J. Geils Band!!
chopper
January 20, 2015 at 8:22 pm
FINALLY! Some one mentions Full House by J. Geils. Top 5 in my book.
Lston Gunn
August 26, 2016 at 6:23 pm
Full House!!
” Take Out Your False teeth Momma, I Want to Suck On Your Gums”
I think Peter Wolf said that on this album.
Of course Grand Funk.is left out and they arent in the HOF either. They could most bands off of the stage.
Explain to me why Steppenwolf isnt in the HOF .
I’m done ranting !
Lston Gunn
August 26, 2016 at 6:23 pm
Full House!!
” Take Out Your False teeth Momma, I Want to Suck On Your Gums”
I think Peter Wolf said that on this album.
Of course Grand Funk.is left out and they arent in the HOF either. They could most bands off of the stage.
Explain to me why Steppenwolf isnt in the HOF .
I’m done ranting !
Tom Tobin
September 2, 2014 at 10:11 pm
My favorites are Rory Gallagher’s “Irish Tour 74” and “Stagestruck” as well as Kiss Alive! and Grand Funk Railroad.
jeff
September 8, 2014 at 7:58 pm
Irish tour was one of my favorites got it for my I pod not to long ago.I don,t have to worry about wearing this copy out !!!!!!
Alex Stojkovic
December 21, 2015 at 8:35 am
Luvin ya choice Jeff
Tom Tobin
September 2, 2014 at 10:12 pm
…..and Johnny Winter And Live.
Michael Shields
September 2, 2014 at 10:28 pm
Many great albums on this list….they all deserve to be here…can’t imagine “Frampton Comes Alive” not being #1….its impact is unmatched…there was a time when anywhere you went you would hear it….
pat mcgowan
September 5, 2014 at 9:46 pm
influenced whom, certainly not other musicians, and the only impact it had was the radio. kiddee pop
framus Jack
September 2, 2015 at 10:04 pm
Not the biggest Frampton fan but Frampton Comes alive was for a long time biggest selling live album ever so lots of people must have liked it, and so what if it is a bit MOR the name of the list does not specify genre but just that they should be a live album. I would have put Extra Terrestrial Live by Blue Oyster Cult in the list.
Alex Stojkovic
December 21, 2015 at 8:46 am
I’m agreein with u Michael. Not kiddee pop. Frampton features in 2 of the best live albums in this survey. Glad that Hot August night is not on this list
miquel àngel
September 2, 2014 at 10:32 pm
‘Live at the Apollo’ by B. B. King ‘Live in Paris’ Aretha Franklin. Come on guys! this link comes from M. W. As she said: ‘Respect’
tim knox
September 2, 2014 at 10:35 pm
I have been a fan of rock & Roll since. the 60’s. I can’t believe. that neither. grand funk railroad and or steppenwolf made the list. at least kiss made it. thank the the all mghty.
Gavin Ferrie
September 2, 2014 at 10:44 pm
MSG- One Night At Budokan should be in there 🙂
James Carr
September 2, 2014 at 11:18 pm
No Kiss alive should be AC/DC if you want blood,or Aerosmith bootleg.
Stuart Royle
September 2, 2014 at 11:38 pm
Cannonball adderly,opperation breadbasket,rory galagher in dublin
Zappa,roxy and elsewhere.
anthony
September 2, 2014 at 11:46 pm
What about van morrisons its too late to stop considered one the greatest live albums by many
tony
September 7, 2016 at 2:44 pm
yes i agree – van the mans is #1
John Marghilano
September 2, 2014 at 11:49 pm
What about YESSONGS by YES??
Grant
September 8, 2018 at 1:03 am
Yes at their very best. Also, Supertramp, Paris Live! Probably the best produced live album, ever!
Dtyler
April 19, 2019 at 10:18 am
If you go by the author’s stated criteria that the live album brought forward the essence of the band and launched it into a new realm, then absolutely Yessongs, the triple live lp by Yes. It is a sonic chronicle of a band at the very pinnacle of their powers that displays an urgency, intensiy, and virtuousity only hinted at in their studio recordings.
Carol Markham
September 3, 2014 at 12:07 am
LEON RUSSELL, Leon Live. Joe Cocker, Leon Russell, Mad Dogs and Englishmen.
Larry
September 3, 2014 at 12:12 am
Wattstack, Revolution of the mind, Wings across America, Woodstock, Bless its pointed little head, isle of wight, thirty seconds over winterland, Jimi live at Berkley
dennis erenstone
September 3, 2014 at 12:12 am
what about live adventures of al kooper and mike bloomfield?
jeff sarrow
December 27, 2015 at 5:57 pm
Super Session. One of the most underrated albums ever
Dave
November 24, 2017 at 2:56 pm
Not a live album….sorry.
tim silano
September 3, 2014 at 12:27 am
Rock n Roll Animal Lou Reed,The Doors Absolutely Live
Michael Taylor
September 4, 2014 at 7:33 am
I had almost given up hope of anyone mentioning Rock n Roll Animal; then you, Tim Silano gave it a mention and ,for me it is the best live album out of all the live albums that I have heard. The musicianship and arrangements are second to none and the band are so tight. Maybe not many people have bought or listened to the album, but it is without a doubt my Number One Best Album.
Neil Ellis
September 7, 2014 at 9:00 am
yeah totally agree about Rock n Roll Animal also Lou Reed Live from the same concert and AC/DC if you want blood, UFO, Iron Maiden, heaps more
Carol Markham
September 3, 2014 at 1:00 am
Leon Live, (Leon Russell) . Mad Dogs and Englishmen , (Joe Cocker, Leon Russell, and the Shelter People).
Ian
September 13, 2014 at 4:39 pm
Endless rows about this list but ‘Leon Live’ is a worthy addition for sure!
Deborah Oblak
September 3, 2014 at 1:01 am
I can’t believe you didn’t consider Derek And The Dominos Layla And Assorted Love Songs. Shame on you!!
Mickey Mac
September 4, 2014 at 3:54 pm
Much as I love Derek and the Dominoes – Layla and Other Love Songs, it is NOT a live album…just sayin’…
Mick Lee
September 3, 2015 at 12:07 pm
True. But Derek And The Dominoes did have two pretty good live albums:
In Concert (1973) and Live At The Fillmore (1994). Granted, these albums were put together after D.&D. fell apart; but if I was dropped on a deserted island and could only have 25 live albums I would choose In Concert as one of them.
JD Smith
September 3, 2017 at 11:55 pm
I agree. But I was there, so it’s not very objective. It was in fact the BEST concert I ever attended. 10/23/70 late show.
Ed
September 3, 2014 at 1:11 am
Yessongs should have been included; just an oversight, I guess…
Laura Cook
September 3, 2014 at 1:11 am
Humble Pie Performance should be way higher, and Peter Frampton should be somewhat higher, if not number 1.
Steve
September 3, 2014 at 1:54 am
Amen.
Grand Funk Railroad++Caught in the Act
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0Z-IGt9Jg3o
dave splenforio
September 3, 2014 at 2:40 am
when I saw bob marley ahead of deep purple made in japan , ball game is over! You guys are smoking too much weed! also you left out UFO strangers in the night, just ask eddie trunk!
lloydzufelt
September 3, 2014 at 3:17 am
You left off VS MY Four Way Street AND Frank Zappa Fillmore East June 1971
Dan
September 3, 2014 at 3:31 am
And where is Blue Oyster Cult ? On Your Feet or On Your Knees is a great live album…
Paul
January 20, 2015 at 4:04 am
ther’s one I missed, BOC’s On Your Feet or On Your Knees. also another one that didn’t make the cut was Status Quo’s Live (now there’s a pretty great album, and they really kick ass!) and no Kinks, either.
G. Man
September 3, 2014 at 3:52 am
And not even one merest hint of a mention of Jethro Tull’s – Bursting Out, by anyone!
Armando Flores Chacon
September 3, 2014 at 4:27 am
Estoy totalmente en desacuerdo con esta lista., Es increíble que no incluyeran a Pink Floyd (maestros), Doors, Ted Nugent ,Stepenwolf, Jethro Tull, etc.. , la lista no sirve…punto. y Grand Funk Railroad, ellos pesaban bastante..
Bill Bernard
September 3, 2014 at 4:31 am
Bob Seger “Live Bullet” hands down top 10.
Chris Nugent
September 4, 2014 at 9:28 pm
Absolutely!! I grew up listening to that album. That and Ted Nugent’s “Double Live Gonzo”. If you lived in Michigan during the ’70’s those two albums were required listening man.
griffinfinity
September 3, 2014 at 7:14 am
It is a great list. I do NOT agree with some of the bands on it, but it covers some of the greats. ‘No Sleep ‘Til Hammersmith’ is in my top 5, so is ‘Alive & Dangerous’. There are different genres and whereas some don’t like Motorhead, it belongs. I would only add that instead of say KISS or Talking Heads, I would replace them with ‘Grand Funk Live’ and ‘Hawkwind’s ‘Space Ritual’ (best illustrated live album cover to boot) → find a better space rock genre live release and I’ll eat my Orgone Accumulator…
Jos Demol
September 3, 2014 at 7:30 am
Where are COLOSSEUM LIVE and JETHRO TULL BURSTING OUT?
Razon
September 3, 2014 at 7:39 am
¿Donde carajos está el Made in Japan? Ese debería ser el número 1. ¿Strangers in The night de UFO? ¿El Caught in the Act de GFR? Donde Dios Santo esta el Yessongs?
Bertrand Fritsch
September 3, 2014 at 12:11 pm
BoB Marley – ‘Babylon by Bus’ for me no.1
Alex Colvin
September 3, 2014 at 1:23 pm
Ramones – It’s Alive?
MrWest
September 4, 2014 at 6:54 am
Yeash, the no1 album in the universe. Probably out of competition good, everything else fades into a grey mass.;-)
Ian
October 13, 2018 at 8:56 am
There are better recorded Ramones live LPs/shows, many made available as Ramones reissue bonus content by Warners.
bill
September 3, 2014 at 2:04 pm
Realy? Some great ones on that list but I gotta go with Johnny Winter And Live in there somewhere……
Steve Blight
September 3, 2014 at 2:05 pm
I agree with The Who at no1 but what about Free Live !
legreg
September 3, 2014 at 2:54 pm
Vous avez oublié Alchemy de Dire strait, telegraph road est
à mourir.
Graham Bloxsome
September 3, 2014 at 4:46 pm
Whitesnake Live in the heart of the city from 1980 is still one of my favourite live albums.
uDiscover
September 3, 2014 at 6:54 pm
Thanks for all your comments, it just goes to prove that you cannot please all of the people, all of the time. Every list like this will always have things on it that make people mad, or the list leaves out things that people consider vital. It’s what makes music so wonderful…
james
September 4, 2014 at 2:45 am
Ted Nugent Gonzo! , Queen Killers, Grand Funk Caught in the Act for sure..
Dave
September 7, 2016 at 5:30 am
So don’t do it again!
sergio lopez
September 3, 2014 at 9:32 pm
increible… donde está On Stage, Rainbow/ Live at Last Black Sabbath/We Want Moore, Gary Moore , Strangers in the Night UFO Two for the Show Kansas ??? esta lista no es completa….
Dino
September 3, 2014 at 9:37 pm
Grand Funk Live should have made the list, and RUSH All the Worlds a Stage over Exit Stage Left. Judas Priest Unleashed in the East, Scorpions World Wide Live, and what about UFO Strangers in the Night???
Dennis Reilly
November 7, 2014 at 2:43 am
Finally. Someone mentions ‘ALL THE WORLDS A STAGE’. Thumbs up!
alfonso campins
September 3, 2014 at 9:47 pm
What hell happen with the concert for Bangla desh?
Marty
September 3, 2014 at 9:49 pm
No “Live Bullet” Bob Segar and the Silver Bullet Band? I have almost half of these LPs, all of which I love, but this one should be on it, IMHO.
rupert
September 3, 2014 at 10:35 pm
Genesis, “Seconds Out”
and what about the epic “What do you want from Live”, The Tubes?
And the Clapton one, Live at the Budokan I think it was, that was pretty good too.
bob
September 3, 2014 at 10:50 pm
Several omissions I see, Neil Diamond “Hot August NIght” David Bowie “Live at the Tower” Ted Nugent “Double Live Gonzo” Yes “Yessongs” Grand Funk Railroad “Live”, ELP “Welcome Back My Friends” Genesis “Live”
Frank Sinatra “Live at the Sands” Joni Mitchell “Miles of Aisles” Jackson Browne “Load Out” CSNY Way Street” ” and the list could go on
Bob
September 3, 2014 at 10:57 pm
Ted Nugent Double Live Gonzo, Foghat Live, J Geils Blow your Face Out
Jasper
September 3, 2014 at 11:28 pm
Wheres Pink Floyd Pulse 1994?? Best live concert in my humble opinion
dt74
September 3, 2014 at 11:45 pm
The Who live at Leeds comes out top on a lot of these lists. My thinking is that the decision by Townsend to go against the band and refuse a live album release, before buckling and getting the management team to record The Who last two gigs live that year (Hull and Leeds, with the sound quality of Hull being poor so eventually Leeds being the chosen gig).
Alongside the ordered burning of the previous 38 gigs recordings, made many people appreciate, especially many years later, the performance given on that album.
The brave move at the time to not include any of the popular rock opera Tommy tracks played during the night onto the album gives it extra Kudos, by fans as a brave move.
As for Nirvana, never has such hype surrounded a Death as that on Nirvana after KC suicide. Many remark on the gritty performance of the man at the time of recording. But hindsight is a wonderful thing.
Aminoordin Kader
September 4, 2014 at 12:19 am
You miss out Grand Funk Live,James Gang in Concert,Cactus,
Trent Edgerton
September 4, 2014 at 12:28 am
What about uriah heep live 1973
Paul
January 20, 2015 at 4:23 am
Uriah Heep Live, 1973 is one of my favs ( 1st album I ever bought of them), and Heep are not in the R& R Hall of Fame. they are considered one of the 4 bands that started heavy metal. the other 3 are Led Zepplin, Black Sabbath, and Deep Purple. Judas Priest & Sabbath came out of Birgingham, and Purple and started out like a prog band in the late ’60s. each band found their style throughout the 70’s (drugs were pretty rampant back then), and each cemented themselves in rock’s history. just 2 are not in the Hall, Priest and Heep. like, c’mon people change the way you get someone in the Hall and put these great bands that became eligible. they deserve it. I know Johnny Rivers has a few live albums, and he’s in the same boat w/not being in.
George Price
September 4, 2014 at 12:34 am
The only problem I have with this list is the inclusion of Wheels Of Fire by Cream,but only because it’s HALF live (disc two) and half Studio (disc one). But,it’s still a great album.
mutt plane
September 4, 2014 at 12:40 am
Everybody has different views as to what should be on there. If you want blood AC/DC, Stranger’s in the night….UFO , the Sab’s even Judas Priest, but I have to wonder how they put Frampton above Humble Pie..I forgot Opeth colud do with amention.
mutt plane
September 4, 2014 at 12:41 am
Everybody has different views as to what should be on there. If you want blood AC/DC, Stranger’s in the night….UFO , the Sab’s even Judas Priest, but I have to wonder how they put Frampton above Humble Pie..Rare Earth and Opeth couldd do with a mention..
Kevin C
September 4, 2014 at 12:59 am
J.Giels Band? Billy Joel? Elton John?
Steve
September 4, 2014 at 1:27 am
No Wishbone Ash? One of the best live bands. Ten Years after had a great live album also.
Dan Ballou
September 4, 2014 at 5:51 pm
I agree Wishbone Ash Live Dates belongs on there. Can’t argue with Ten Years After either!
Rodrigo
September 4, 2014 at 1:33 am
MADE IN JAPAN is the N° 1°!
Jim M
September 4, 2014 at 1:37 am
Agree with many of the comments about “where is GFR” on this list. Also think that Deep purple should have been higher. Uriah Heep live was a favorite of mine.
Donald
September 4, 2014 at 2:37 am
Ones that did not make them cut but should have. Lou Reed, Rock and Roll Animal; Mountain, Twin Peaks; Santana, Lotus; Jimi Hendrix, Hendrix in the West; Chicago, at Carnegie Hall; Rare Earth, In Concert.
Steve R
September 4, 2014 at 4:36 am
What is the actual point of compiling a list like this?
Who cares we like what we like !
I didn’t think anyone even knew of Spaceritual by Hawkwind !
What about Moonflower by Santana, Just One Night by Eric Clapton. And Queen live Killers ? Genesis-Seconds Out or even Genesis Live. Pink Floyd Pulse. It’s personal taste and the list could go on and on.
Hellboy
September 4, 2014 at 4:45 am
QUEEN – LIVE AT WEMBLEY?
AC/DC – LIVE AT DONINGTON?
Motoi "Freddie" Iizuka
September 4, 2014 at 4:59 am
Beck, Bogert & Appice Live in Japan, One fo the road – Kinks , Yesshows – Yes should have!
Jones
September 4, 2014 at 1:13 pm
Another Kink live is missing as well: The Kinks – Live at Kelvin Hall
Chaim Caran
September 6, 2016 at 2:03 pm
And what about the live half of Everybody’s in Show-biz of the Kinks especially Alcohol…?
carlton morris
September 4, 2014 at 5:00 am
Foghat LIve? Grand Funk Caught in the Act? Whitesnake Live in the Heart of the City? Deep Purple Made in Japan should definitely be much higher – if not #1. Classic!
Steve S.
September 7, 2016 at 11:52 pm
Foghat Live!! Amazing album – best version ever of Muddy Waters’ I Just Wanna Make Love To you’
Lalo
September 4, 2014 at 6:01 am
That’s right
Where is Caught in the act?
Killer live album
Larry
September 6, 2014 at 4:52 pm
Where is Quicksilver Messenger Service – “Happy Trails” – one of the greatest live albums ever!?
pat mcgowan
December 1, 2014 at 10:27 pm
pat McGowan forget peter Frampton, that’s for poofs! wishbone ash live dates, ten years after live, climax blues band, mountain twin peaks lou reed rock and roll animal
Nick Craske
August 26, 2016 at 8:37 am
Pat – Do you have to use a homophobic term to make your point? Would you say the same applies to Judas Priest simply because Rob Halford came out as gay?
Mike Ace
August 27, 2016 at 2:02 am
I have GFR Live, & Ten Years After at Filmore East. A slight edge for TYA.
Schueiler
September 3, 2017 at 4:19 pm
Lou Reeds ROCK n ROLL ANIMAL should definitely be at the too of the list.
Barry.
September 5, 2017 at 7:37 am
Little Feat and Bob Seger should be above some of the albums on this list, it’s all different strokes for different folks anyway.
peter chrisp
March 17, 2019 at 12:33 pm
Pat i am surprised that as suggested Ten Years After Recorded Live didn’t get a mention bought the 40th anniversary edition with extras it sounds great
Mason Lee
September 3, 2015 at 1:44 am
With the Grateful Dead, I suppose, and Cheap Thrills, and Live in Folsom Prison.
Mason Lee
September 3, 2015 at 1:49 am
Not cheap thrills, I meant the live at winterland.
Stoner
November 21, 2019 at 1:54 am
We’re is It’s to late to stop a classic by Van the Man
phil oats
September 5, 2015 at 7:17 am
ya, good call, happy trails sums up the SF scene better than live dead.
bob shipp
May 14, 2016 at 9:16 pm
Pretty fuckin good, I’d say. Still listen to it rolling down the road.
Thanks for remembering.
Mark
June 3, 2016 at 6:33 am
Happy Trails is Very Good. glad to see LIVE/DEAD.made it. Cheap Thrills is half & Wheels of Fire are half studio. Love em anyway.
Jacek Gruszczynski
June 27, 2016 at 11:01 pm
right on Bro……Quicksilver Happy Trails and Maiden of the Cancer Moon-live 1968
Jeff Weinberg
September 6, 2016 at 10:21 pm
Agree Larry, i was lucky enough to be at The Fillmore East that night. Amazing show & amazing album!
Timothy Flynn
November 11, 2016 at 8:03 am
Happy Trails was awesome. What a band
Richard
November 19, 2016 at 12:51 am
Totally agree – that album has stood the test of time – IMHO one of, if not THE, best live Filmore albums ever.
Pope Nick the Great
October 24, 2019 at 2:49 am
Agree GFR should be on the list.
But to leave out LOU REED’s “Rock & Roll Animal” (1974) is positively criminal!!!
Oh and “Ya Yas” should be #1, The Who at #3 — just my opinion, and your mileage may vary.
fernando sigala
September 4, 2014 at 6:35 am
y que onda con CHICAGO Y GFR
Coen den Luyfel
September 4, 2014 at 6:53 am
Woodstock on nr. 1.
Bob lawrinz
September 4, 2014 at 8:13 am
Deep Purple’s Machine Head no.1! Some great albums here no doubt but I have no time for nirvana. I would have alchemy from Dire Straits, Rory Gallaghers Irish tour, AC/DC if you want blood, Queen live killers here also ahead of Nirvana, kiss, talking heads, cheap trick. But hey just an opinion
Alex Stojkovic
December 21, 2015 at 8:59 am
Strange that Rorys Live in Europe is not amongst this lot
Dave
November 24, 2017 at 3:00 pm
Machine Head is not a live album.
michel (newsouljazz)
September 4, 2014 at 8:14 am
NO “ROCK’N’ROLL ANIMAL” by LOU REED !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! IT’S A SHAME
Kostas Kritikos (Sparta, Greece)
September 7, 2014 at 9:40 am
yes!!!!!!!
Patvyn
September 4, 2014 at 8:16 am
Colosseum – Live
Gentle Giant – Playin’ the fool
Zappa – Roxy & elsewhere
Jethro tull – Bursting out
UFO – Strangers in the night
Robin Trower – Live
Jim
September 4, 2014 at 10:48 am
Well said Dan, OnYour Feet Or On Your Knees a brilliant live album.
Phil
September 4, 2014 at 11:07 am
Needs more Hendrix
Lars Holm
September 4, 2014 at 11:12 am
I agree with a lott in here, Grand Funk/ Caught in the akt is missing !
Queen, Bruce Springsteen and go on . .
Antonio José Figueiredo Soares Azevedo
September 4, 2014 at 11:14 am
What about Lou Reed’s Rock and Roll Animal?
Tom S
September 4, 2014 at 11:17 am
J Geils, Full House
Larry Lagula
September 5, 2014 at 8:27 pm
J. Geils “Full House”
Jimi Hendrix “Band of Gyspys”
Frank Zappa “Live at the Fillmore East”
Johnny Winter “Kive And”
axl
September 4, 2014 at 11:33 am
what about Gn’R????
Stephen
September 4, 2014 at 11:36 am
Very subjective – we all have our personal favourites so would all produce a different chart.
Telmo Marques
September 4, 2014 at 11:48 am
Dire Straits – Alchemy
Bob Dylan Bootleg Series – Live Royal Albert Hall
Supertramp – Live in Paris
Eric Clapton – Unplugged
Pink Floyd – Live Earls Court
Graham Purnell
September 4, 2014 at 11:53 am
I scrolled down the list, nodding a few times in agreement but getting more and more agitated until I finally saw ‘Live at Leeds’ at #1 – then I breathed a huge sigh of relief.
Jan Koelemeij
September 4, 2014 at 11:56 am
Queen, Fleetwood Mac, Santana, Status Quo, Pink Floyd etc.
In these lists there is always something missing. But is is a good list anyway.
Rob Leake
September 4, 2014 at 12:04 pm
You got the number one correct ! What about Woodstock or Queen Live at Wembley?
jix
September 4, 2014 at 12:12 pm
Well- it´s one of Millions of different lists…
Vila
September 4, 2014 at 12:32 pm
I definitely miss Ted Nugent’s “Live Bonzo”. That album it’s on every list of most remarkeable live albums on history, same as Alive by Kiss and Cheap Trick’s Budokan (both are here). You just can’t miss those, if you want to be objetctive. It’s not that i consider it as basic, it doesn’t matter what do i consider. It’s rock history who says it, not me. Has more right to be there than Marley or even Zeppelin (Zeppelin are WAY OUT greatest than Nugent, but his live album was always considered a regular one, and Gonzo it’s over them on the list of live albums).
Dave Kebs
September 4, 2014 at 12:41 pm
Some I’d like to have seen on the list -What do you want from Live – The Tubes, Moonflower – Santana, Live in the Air Age – Be-Bop deluxe or any of the numerous Frank Zappa ‘Live’ Albums (albeit he used tons of overdubs, but hey Live & Dangerous made the list)
Michael
September 4, 2014 at 12:46 pm
How about Derek & The Dominos at Fillmore East? Jimi Hendrix Band of Gypsies? Little Feat Waiting for Columbus? Yes – Yessongs? Chicago at Carnegie Hall? Bob Dylan at Philharmonic Hall? Joe Cocker Mad Dogs and Englishmen.That’s just for starters
Graham Scott
September 4, 2014 at 12:56 pm
I actually own 3 of them and wish I still had one of them !
The one that got a real reaction from me was Deep Purple – was that not the one with Tommy Brolin (?) on guitar !! Maybe not.
Kostas Kritikos (Sparta, Greece)
September 4, 2014 at 1:00 pm
I think the greatest Talking Heads’ live album is ‘The Name of This Band Is Talking Heads’ and forget a masterpiece 1992’s ‘Life on Planet Groove’ by Maceo Parker
Kostas Kritikos (Sparta, Greece)
September 5, 2014 at 3:31 pm
and of course …… the legendary Muddy Waters at Newport (1960)
Jimmy P
September 4, 2014 at 1:26 pm
We’re is Blue Oyster Cult? Their “On Your Feet Or On Your Knees” is classic. UFO “Strangers In The Night”? ??????
Peter
September 4, 2014 at 2:48 pm
No list of Greatest Live Albums without Jimi Hendrix’ Band Of Gypsys on it, can be taken seriously.
Alex Stojkovic
December 21, 2015 at 9:01 am
Gotta agree
paknees
September 4, 2014 at 3:30 pm
thats what i said! wheres the grand funk?!! and im sorry but the who live is a little overrated i never thought they sound that great live
Graham Brown
September 4, 2017 at 7:17 am
Hi there. I was at Leeds that evening. I agree with you that some of the Who’s live stuff was below average but when they got it right, as they did that night, there was no one to touch them. I have the cd of the Hull concert from the following evening and it isnt a patch on the Leeds recording. Just my opinion of course.
Kerry
September 4, 2014 at 3:31 pm
Blue Oyster Cult, On your feet or On your knees is worth listening too. As good or better than most on this list.
tmccool
September 4, 2014 at 3:32 pm
All good choices, but I have a few more you may have overlooked. J. Geils Band’s two live albums – Full House and Blow Your Face Out are fantastic. Bob Seger’s Live Bullet laid the groundwork for his phenomenal success. I’ve been partial to Eric Clapton’s Rainbow Concert – it’s ragged but engaging. Muddy Water’s live album he did with Johnny Winter is an incredible live blues set. The deluxe edition is even better. Mott The Hoople’s live album from the 1974 tour is a rocker, and again the deluxe edition is an improvement. Bob Dylan’s “Royal Albert Hall” concert from his bootleg series is as much an historical document as it is a rock concert. I think Deep Purple Mk III’s Made In Europe is just as good as Made In Japan. There’s more but I’ll stop here.
Kathy J
September 4, 2014 at 3:39 pm
What a bunch of whiney babies. Can’t please anyone!!
Harry
September 4, 2014 at 3:40 pm
No “Waiting For Columbus” by Little Feat ???? You blew it just like R&R HOF nominees.
timothy
September 4, 2014 at 3:42 pm
I do not have any problem with the first two on this list. In fact you could flip flop these two as 1 or 2 on this list. I just want to mention the J. Giles Band live “Full House” as the big omission from this list. In fact at one time I would have put it as high as number 3 on my personal list.
dax
September 4, 2014 at 4:01 pm
GLENN HUGHES BURNING JAPAN NO1
Mickey Mac
September 4, 2014 at 4:05 pm
Can’t believe you left out Ry Cooder and Corridos Famosos – “Live in San Francisco”, and Ry Cooder – “Showtime”!! But seriously, folks: everyone has their favorite chestnut that might not appear on someone else’s list. Of my two favorite live albums, one is on the list and one isn’t. Allman Brothers – “Live at Fillmore East” is my all-time favorite live album (it’s the one that got me playing electric and slide guitar and set me off on that musical road to perdition!). Little Feat – “Waiting for Columbus” is a close second. All in all, not a bad cross section, though.
Benny Rees
September 4, 2014 at 4:13 pm
IMHO some glaring omissions from the above list – INXS “Baby Live Baby – XS Tour Live At Wembley Stadium, London, 13 July 1991”, Duran Duran “Arena”, Scorpions – MTV Unplugged In Athens (2CD), Nena featuring Nena – Live From Frankfurt, Depeche Mode “101”, U2 “Zooropa – Live From Sydney”, Bryan Adams – Bare Bones (2010), Wham! “Edge Of Heaven”, Communards “Storm Paris”, Erasure Live At The Seaside (Brighton Dome, 14 April 1987)… not everything I mention has been released either, some are bootlegs – such as Tracy Chapman – “Chestnut Cabaret ’88”
Ignore live albums, whenever possible, watch the shows from DVD or Blu-ray instead. You’ll enjoy it much more!
Frank
September 4, 2014 at 4:50 pm
Wishbone Ash Live Dates!
Rick Dio
September 4, 2014 at 4:53 pm
Definitely some great albums missing. To have Kiss any where near this list of great bands is ridiculous. Absolutely the worst band ever to make It big.
Peter Currie
September 4, 2014 at 4:55 pm
Joe Cocker, Mad Dogs & Englishmen
John Mayall, Turning Point
Kiss? Motorhead? Iron Maiden? Are you kiddin me?! Who compiled this list, Ozzy?
Randy
September 4, 2014 at 5:09 pm
These things are always very subjective. Of course no one will have the same list. Still there are a couple of huge omissions that should be on any live album list. Bob Seger- Live Bullet has been #1 on several lists Ive seen and gets no mention here. Yes- Yessongs…. Yes isnt everybodys cup of tea but Yesssongs is simply one of the best live recordings ever released. Without those two on the list somewhere this list is meaningless.
Dean Young
September 4, 2014 at 5:12 pm
I would have liked to see the list that the top 25 were chosen from. So many good ones are hardly mentioned. Such as Bonamassa at the Royal Albert Hall, the original Fleetwood Mac live at the Fillmore, Ten Years After Live at the Fillmore and the Concert for Bangladesh.
KARLP
September 4, 2014 at 5:14 pm
My top 5:
1. Allman Brothers Band – Live at Fillmore East
2. Grateful Dead – Europe 72
3. Joe Cocker – Mad Dogs & Englishmen
4. Jimi Hendrix – Band of Gypsys
5. Little Feat – Waiting for Columbus
Karlp
September 4, 2014 at 5:16 pm
1. Allman Brothers Band – Live at Fillmore East
2. Grateful Dead – Europe 72
3. Joe Cocker – Mad Dogs & Englishmen
4. Jimi Hendrix – Band of Gypsys
5. Little Feat – Waiting for Columbus
Jordan
September 4, 2014 at 7:13 pm
Nice list… personally I’d put Derek and the Dominoes Live at the Fillmore up there too.
Norm
September 4, 2014 at 5:28 pm
You include Peter Frampton but leave out Van Morrison’s “It’s Too Late To Stop Now”? You must be kidding.
Mark
September 4, 2014 at 5:46 pm
Ted Nugent’s Double Live Gonzo! Not in the top 10 but should definitely be in the top 25.
alberto
September 4, 2014 at 5:49 pm
I’m agree iwith number 1, 2 and 3, but Wheels of fire number 25 and Frampton comes alve nº 7 it’s a joke?
Alex Stojkovic
December 21, 2015 at 9:04 am
Ok Alberto. I know now that u rate Frampton
Steve T
September 4, 2014 at 5:59 pm
Dr Feelgood, Stupidity and SAHB live were both brilliant albums
Rick
September 4, 2014 at 6:10 pm
Nice list and some great additions in comments. A few of my favorites growing up – Aerosmith Double Live Bootleg … Iron Maiden Maiden Japan … UFO Lights Out Live … Scorpions Tokyo Tapes … Ted Nugent Double Live Gonzo … McCartney and Wings Wings Over America … Neil Young Live Rust was pivotal in my music fandom career … and Cheap Trick Live at Budokan and Frampton Comes Alive were just friggin’ huge!
AceDuncan
September 4, 2014 at 6:18 pm
I hate lists like this, because these are 25 great albums and yet I can think of a dozen others that should be on here.
John
September 4, 2014 at 6:21 pm
No Johnny Winter And Live, GF Railroad, Chicago Live at Carnegie Hall, Yes Songs, Santana, AC/DC If You Want Blood You Got It, no Jeff Beck (got to be kidding), Kansas Two For the Show. Pat Travers Go For What You Know, Van Halen Live without a Net. Who made up this list, Dick Clark or some 12 year old kid? I’m in my 60’s and a professional musician. So I’ve seen everyone live. I’ve owned every live rock album worth owning.
Ian
October 13, 2018 at 9:16 am
Well bully for you son – we bow down to your unassailable all-knowingness.
Tom Tuerff
September 4, 2014 at 6:26 pm
Sorry, but this list is moot since they don’t mention “Waiting for Columbus” by Little Feat. Simply the best-recorded live album of a band at their very best. You don’t have to put it at #1 (although it deserves to be) but not including it here simply shows how ignorant the writer is.
Bernie deGastyne
September 4, 2014 at 6:39 pm
Are you kidding me?? The Climax Blues Band FM Live album in 1973 is one of the top ten of all-time period. Maybe the sales were’t there but the musicians certainly were. Can’t believe they were left out!!
Budjavac
September 4, 2014 at 7:04 pm
No Alchemy: Dire Straits Live?
Not a viable list without that.
Jordan
September 4, 2014 at 7:10 pm
Any “best live albums” list without Derek and the Dominoes Live at the Fillmore is an ignorant list. And I second Mr. Tuerff – where is “Waiting for Columbus”?? And finally… no Zappa?? Really?
Geoff B-S
September 4, 2014 at 7:15 pm
The list is great, but the comments and remarks are just as entertaining!!!
Who cares if your own personal favourite is not there – it’s somebody else’s list.
Like the post.
Gbs
clayton
September 4, 2014 at 7:16 pm
as Donald mentioned one of my personal favorites, Mountain: Twin Peaks
John Blair
September 4, 2014 at 7:22 pm
Some good live albums on this list, but some missing..
Strangers In The Night (UFO)
David Live (David Bowie) – my personal favourite
Seconds Out (Genesis)
Detours (Saga) – great album
If You Want Blood You Got It (AC/DC) – saw them live on this tour.. Awesome!
Devonjohn
September 4, 2014 at 8:54 pm
So where is UFO’s Strangers in the Night from 1978? Hello Chicago….. Once universally accepted as the greatest “live” album and unlike many bands of the 70s still touring and making new music.
Ketil Svendsen
September 4, 2014 at 9:03 pm
Grand Funk aren’t that important outside the US, but if they’re on the list why not include the Nuge? He made better albums than political views 😉 … Oh, and Live at Leeds deserves the #1 spot! Pretty hard to beat that one. Pretty low score for Motörhead though, and while we’re onto Lemmy: Hawkwind “Space Ritual” is mysteriously missing … Great to see MC5 there – but where’s the Ramones’ “It’s Alive”? AC/DC “If you want blood”? Such a list will NEVER be complete, but thanks for the effort! 🙂
nycjeff18
September 4, 2014 at 9:22 pm
No Derek & the Dominoes??? #1 ABB Live at the Fillmore #2 Derek & the Dominoes Live at the Fillmore #3 Stones Get Your Ya Yas #4 Who Live at Leeds #5 Dead Europe ’72
Michael Leach
September 4, 2014 at 9:46 pm
What about Hawkwinds Space Ritual
Pete
September 4, 2014 at 9:49 pm
Where the hell is Black Sabbath??????
acelow
September 4, 2014 at 10:28 pm
No “welcome back…” By ELP.
paul armfield
September 4, 2014 at 11:40 pm
deep purple made in japan no 1 how can you beat this this band knows how to play live the best band in the world and they are still going
Friggy
September 4, 2014 at 11:56 pm
My favorite live album has to be The original Woodstock.
Stuart Rowley
September 5, 2014 at 12:15 am
I would have thought Wheels of Fire by Cream would be on top 10 at least..
Dick
September 5, 2014 at 12:28 am
no Clapton, no Eagles, no Little Feat, no CSNY,
Gary Gallagher
September 5, 2014 at 1:33 am
How on earth do you not include UFO’s Strangers in the Night?!! That’s why the majority of these lists are a joke. They are more an individual’s opinion rather than a common one.
Colin Dyer
September 5, 2014 at 12:29 pm
I totally agree where is UFO’s Strangers in the Night.
Jay Johnson
September 6, 2014 at 3:41 am
I scrolled through the list looking for Strangers in the Night! Not legit without it!
Claus
September 6, 2014 at 8:00 am
Strangers In The Night should be ranking in the Top-10!
CrAnK
September 6, 2016 at 8:36 pm
Agree!
Pasto
September 8, 2014 at 6:49 am
Amen, to that!!!
steve dipper lewis
November 10, 2014 at 12:53 pm
totally agree with you UFO Strangers in the night should be number 1 best by far and im a who fan
Ian Jd Andrews
December 27, 2015 at 12:59 am
Yep any list of live albums without Strangers in the Top 5 somewhere is invalid
Steve
September 3, 2017 at 6:42 pm
Anyone that really knows rock music knows Strangers should be on the list. Its really live (cough Kiss Alive) has some amazing guitar solo’s from Schenker and its always been a favorite of rock musicians.
Sean
September 29, 2017 at 9:06 pm
Kiss alive is as live as Frampton’s album.. Kiss may have touched up some vocals and guitar parts. But not the drums at all. And 100,000 years is a KILLER track. Every live album is touched up. Even ozzy’ first live album, has not a single live vocal line.
Doug
September 4, 2017 at 7:34 am
How could you be named Gary Gallagher and not name Rory’s Live in Europe? Lol.
Kandee Riggio
September 6, 2017 at 2:17 pm
Funny, I was thinking the Irish Tour album——
Madge
October 11, 2018 at 2:09 pm
Rory Gallagher plus Grand Funk are dead certs
LPmusicman
June 22, 2019 at 4:07 am
Good choice . . .!
jr
September 8, 2018 at 2:28 am
“Strangers in the Night” is a serious omission as is “Waiting for Columbus” (Little Feat) and “Metallic K.O. (Iggy and the Stooges).
Al
September 11, 2018 at 1:50 pm
AWESOME record !!!!!
Mark Carroll
December 23, 2018 at 6:29 pm
Any list of top live albums, that doesn’t have UFO’s Strangers In The Night in the top 5, is bogus and should be disregarded as such.
JF GeSchmidtt
September 5, 2014 at 1:48 am
The Byrds Untitled. The rendition of 8 miles high is just killer. Also Mountain Live has that amazing long version of Nantucket Sleighride. Finally, and I can’t believe this is not on there, Bless Its Pointed Little Head. Jefferson Airplane. By far their best album.
TestaOn
September 5, 2014 at 2:34 am
For those saying The Allman Brothers Band – Live at Fillmore East should have been included, that’s Duane Allman’s smiling face at #2. The Grateful Dead makes an appearance too. Nice countdown, but of course, we could could probably communally agree on another 25 that would be worthy of making this list.
CHisha
September 5, 2014 at 3:23 am
Wishbone Ash Live Dates.
dan doiron
September 5, 2014 at 8:39 am
One of my all time favorite Live albums was..Edgar Winters “Roadwork” a great double album, with Tobacco Road! Another is Poco their “Deliverin” album was excellent.
David JONES
September 5, 2014 at 8:57 am
Rory Gallagher “Live in Europe” and Loudon Wainwright’s “Career Moves!
Goblin Lee
September 5, 2014 at 9:12 am
Let’s vote
philippe planchard
September 5, 2014 at 9:41 am
Some suggestions
Ramones: It’s Alive The Rainbow
Nirvarna: Live At Reading
Joy Division: Bains Douches
Rolling Stones: Brussels Affair
Graham Lewis
September 5, 2014 at 10:04 am
This poll just ain’t got the groove. No Parliament ‘Live: P. Funk Earth Tour’, nor James Brown ‘Live At The Apollo’
Nigel Karslake
September 5, 2014 at 10:56 am
ufo strangers in the night?
Whitesnake live in the heart of the city?
Iron maiden Maiden Japan?
The list goes on.
Eddy
September 5, 2014 at 11:19 am
Just goes to show you cant please all of the people etc… myself included,no Dr Feelgood – Stupidity
George
September 5, 2014 at 12:10 pm
Good list. Need:
Ten Years After: Recorded Live
Mothers: live at the Fillmore
Dave Mason: Certified Live
Lou Reed: Rock and Roll Animal
Little Feat: waiting for Colombus
And either live J Giels LP
rick romanelli
September 5, 2014 at 12:16 pm
Outlaws – Bring ’em Back Alive
ZZ Top – Fandango (Side 1)
Genesis – Seconds Out
Journey – Captured
YES – YESSONGS and YESSHOWS
victor
September 5, 2014 at 12:33 pm
Wheres PULSE by pink floyd? Thats a ridiculous list, thats one of five best live albums ever made…
Doug McWilliams
September 5, 2014 at 2:12 pm
You really need to include Happy Trails by Quicksilver Messenger Service and Bless its Pointed Little Head by the Jefferson Airplane. Not sure it qualifies but Frank Zappa and the Mothers of Invention’a Just Another Band From LA is also awesome.
Doug McWilliams
September 5, 2014 at 2:18 pm
To be on such a list a record really needs to speak to giving you a sense of being at the show as well as appealing to a rather broad audience. It also needs to have made a difference. For me, Live at Leeds, Get Yer Ya-Yas out, Bless It’s Pointed Little Head, Live Dead, Happy Trails do all of that. I can’t speak to some of the others. It would be remiss not to also consider the 2 first Woodstock records. Oh, I forgot Cheap Thrills by Big Brother and the Holding Company. Wow!
Manolo Valencia
September 5, 2014 at 2:28 pm
Queen – Live Killers should definetly have made the list.
Bill
September 5, 2014 at 2:29 pm
Status Quo live from the Apollo, Glasgow
Michael Young
February 25, 2015 at 11:20 pm
This is a probably a U.S. made list and Quo gets no respect here. Should be in Rock-n-Roll Hall of Fame. Rory Gallagher Live in Europe should be on there too.
Alex Stojkovic
December 21, 2015 at 7:55 am
I’m with u with LIE, but Rory is and always will be my favourite muso
David
September 7, 2016 at 5:21 am
Have to agree with Rory Gallagher being in there, though Live Irish Tour 1974 is my pick. Unfortunately few peole, current musicians included, know who he was or who his kids became. RIP Rory.
Kandee Riggio
September 6, 2017 at 2:19 pm
David—————– he never had any children—————————————— trust me, I know this for a fact
tom
September 3, 2017 at 1:53 am
I agree with rory should be in top 5
Howard
September 6, 2016 at 8:00 pm
Quo get no respect. Quo are one of the best live acts out there.
Mark
September 5, 2014 at 2:53 pm
One glaring omission is Bob Marley’s ‘Babylon By Bus’. It’s far superior to Bob Marley “Live’.
Jan Piitaq
September 3, 2017 at 7:11 pm
something has gone awfully wrong
FunkyPunk
June 7, 2018 at 2:46 pm
‘Babylon By Bus’is probably the best Reggae Record ever! No matter if ‘Live’ or ‘Studio’.
mshalfstep
September 5, 2014 at 3:19 pm
Really? No Santana, Gary Moore, Outlaws, Grateful Dead. Too many for a list of 25. Needs to be top 100
Kostas Kritikos (Sparta, Greece)
September 5, 2014 at 3:35 pm
Muddy Waters at Newport (1960) the greatest …!!!
Bengt G Carlsson
September 5, 2014 at 4:43 pm
Agree with a lot of other commentators, Grand Funk Railroad Live is a given on this list. Allman Brothers should be no 1, but Live at Leeds is among top 5, Would like to include Absolutely Live by the Doors and “Bless its pointed little Head” by JA, but then again, it is all about personal tastes and to a large extent a generation thing, right?
Todd Bareham
September 5, 2014 at 5:14 pm
Scorpions World Wide Live
martin powis
September 5, 2014 at 6:24 pm
What about Slade Alive – one of the first albums I ever bought – still sounds great today !!
Michael Young
February 25, 2015 at 11:43 pm
Slade gets no respect in the U.S., but was a great live band. Hear Me Calling. In Like a Shot From My Gun. When I was in 11th grade I had to look in just about every record store in town to find it.
Unklebrew
September 5, 2014 at 7:33 pm
Four way street deserves a spot. Zappa Roxy and elsewhere too.
Aidan
September 5, 2014 at 7:51 pm
Van Morrison – Its Too Late To Stop Now
john andesen
September 5, 2014 at 8:17 pm
Rory Gallager stage struck should be #1
Jill Maciel
September 6, 2014 at 2:42 pm
YEAH Rory Gallgher!!! Irish Tour 74!
Michael Young
February 25, 2015 at 11:39 pm
Big Rory fan, but Stage Struck has terrible sound. I might like it better if it was recorded better. Live in Europe and Irish Tour much better.
RickyG.
September 5, 2014 at 8:26 pm
Agree! GFR Live is one of my top Live Albums!
Ric Scott
September 5, 2014 at 8:34 pm
Why “greatest” and why just 25, silly to limit when the genre(s) produced so many fine live performances…
MH
September 5, 2014 at 8:37 pm
Woodstock , how can you miss that one, Bangladesh is another can’t miss, Bob Seger Silver Bullet, Bob Dylan and the Band
gregg
September 5, 2014 at 9:02 pm
Without The Ramones It’s Alive, this list is a joke!
Ted Hoffmann
September 5, 2014 at 9:02 pm
Yes Grand Funk Railroad Live and Robin Trower Live would be cool
Alex Stojkovic
December 21, 2015 at 7:58 am
Ya got me with Robin Trower Live
Dietmar Simon
September 5, 2014 at 9:37 pm
Agree ! “Caught in the act” should notv have been missing.
I would swap against James Brown.
And, btw, how about Black Crowes “Live at the Greek” ?
Tom
December 27, 2015 at 2:29 am
Lou Reed’s “Rock-n-Roll Animal,” Delaney & Bonnie on Tour w/ Eric Clapton”, and J. Geils “Full House” is what I would have suggested.
Sam Smiley
September 7, 2016 at 3:13 pm
Agree with you on all three.
Ted Barry
September 5, 2014 at 9:51 pm
Jethro Tull – Live: Bursting Out. One of the greatest live recordings of all-time! Also, I’m a fan of UFO – Strangers In The Night.
Barry
September 5, 2014 at 9:52 pm
Humble Pie- Rockin The Fillmore
Johnny Winter And
Wishbone Ash- Live Dates
Hendrix- Band of Gypsys
Robin Trower- Live
Grand Funk RR- Live
Rafal
September 5, 2014 at 10:15 pm
I am surprised that Littlefeat’s ” Waiting for Columbus ” was not on the list.
The Feat’s last great performances before Lowell passed away.
TURN IT UP!!!!!!
Nick
September 5, 2014 at 10:25 pm
Good call Jim. First thing I thought to myself. Wait a minute, no Grand Funk Railroad live???
Marvin Roos
March 30, 2019 at 3:21 am
Peter Gabriel’s Secret World Live? BTW, there was a Deluxe 2 CD edition of Live at Leeds which included a performance of Tommy (complete). Amazing non-stop Who.
bill marasco
September 5, 2014 at 10:47 pm
Johnny Winter And LIVE.
Ian Coventry
September 6, 2014 at 1:11 am
There Was a Frank Zappa live album that featured Italian Police Helicopter and Tear gassing Rioters out side the Stadium
Brian
September 6, 2014 at 7:35 am
Pink Floyd… Dark side of the moon. Live? Who cares… Live sucks
James Rodriguez
September 7, 2014 at 7:12 am
Not all live albums suck. Sammy Hagar’s Live All Night Long and PT’s Go For What You Know were all completely live and great. No overdubs.
wkazimierz
September 6, 2014 at 9:04 am
Alchemy Dire Straits
joep vd velde
September 6, 2014 at 11:05 am
Cream – Fresh Cream.
Jill Maciel
September 6, 2014 at 2:38 pm
Rory Gallagher ~ ‘Irish Tour 74’ should have made that list!
david Thorndike
September 6, 2014 at 8:55 pm
You missed one of the all time best hard rock live albums
UFO-Strangers in the night.
A must have, check it out what a classic live concert.
SenorPescador Johnson
September 6, 2014 at 8:55 pm
yep Grand Funk LIVE was awesome, with Bloodrock and purple haze REAL LSD
good list I’m impressed
mike
September 6, 2014 at 9:04 pm
I totally agree. There are many great artists missing. I have most of the live LPs and CDs. My favorite is live and dangerous. A good way to this is poll the fans and then make UR list. Compile the result into atleast the top 50.
Sam Smiley
September 6, 2014 at 9:49 pm
Rock and Roll Animal, Lou Reed. Sweet Jane
darry struthers
September 6, 2014 at 10:59 pm
One blatant omission. THE RAMONES – IT’S ALIVE. best live album ever.
dave estes
September 7, 2014 at 1:42 am
silver bullet live j. giels full house
John W
September 7, 2014 at 5:20 am
HOW COULD YOU forget…. Jimi Hendrix- Band of gypsys…. That was an incredible performance from the band, Please watch and/or listen to it….Bob Marley is up there too….
James Rodriguez
September 7, 2014 at 7:10 am
Some great ones left off are Pat Travers Go For What You Know, Trower, UFO, Sammy Hagar Live All Night Long.
Kostas Kritikos (Sparta, Greece)
September 7, 2014 at 9:38 am
i listen right now the greatest live reggae album
http://www.dailymotion.com/video/xu0x76_misty-in-roots-live-at-the-counter-eurovision-1979-full-album_music
Alan Young
September 7, 2014 at 12:29 pm
“Live Rust from the other MR Young( Neil)- missing presumed an oversight
Eddy
September 7, 2014 at 1:12 pm
Where is WISHBONE ASH – LIVE DATES???? or YES – YESSONGS? (i don’t know the UFO album, so…. it’s a shame, i can’t comment that one)
Gavin
September 7, 2014 at 2:53 pm
Alchemy , Dire Straits ..no to be forgotten…
Also,..Before the flood , .Bob Dylan and The Band
JOhn
September 7, 2014 at 3:58 pm
Clapton unplugged is a huge oversight on this list
Richard
September 7, 2014 at 10:50 pm
Who’s kidding Who? i miss The Who, Pink Floyd, Jimi Hendrix
Richard
Kevin
September 7, 2014 at 6:08 pm
Would’ve been fun to see Black Oak Arkansas’ s “Raunch and Roll” on the list….
Lewis Penrod
September 7, 2014 at 6:26 pm
No Happy Trails , Bless its pointed little head ,Band of Gypsy’s, woodstock there’s more who picked this list
Alex Stojkovic
December 21, 2015 at 8:03 am
Oh! Band of Gypsies! Not mainstream, but sensational
Roger
September 7, 2014 at 7:01 pm
Grand Funk Live! Absolutely just like the concert that I saw. Fantastic!
VENUXDELUXE
September 7, 2014 at 7:36 pm
IRISH TOUR – Rory Gallagher
SINATRA at The Sands
WOODSTOCK three records set
MONTEREY POP FESTIVAL 67
GRAND FUNK of course ! ! !
ARETHA in PARIS
……………………… and please , throw out THIN LIZZY , it’s a fake !
Mike
September 7, 2014 at 9:50 pm
Supertamp Paris
Geoff Malecky
September 7, 2014 at 9:57 pm
Humble Pie should have been top 5. No excuse for leaving Lou Reed’s Rock and Roll Animal or Lou Reed Live (same show) off the list. The Concert For Bangladesh, J. Geils Band Full House, Clapton Unplugged, Bowie’s David Live also deserving.
Lucy
September 7, 2014 at 10:01 pm
Not bad overall. but there could have been a place for Pulse or Queen at Wembley in there. A rock top 25 without Pink Floyd or Queen can’t be that complete.
Richard
September 7, 2014 at 10:15 pm
You must be kidding ..? where are: Jimi Hendrix, The Who, Pink Floyd
Rick McGuire
September 8, 2014 at 1:19 am
Robin Trower Live – the best live album EVER.
leigh williams
December 26, 2015 at 10:38 pm
BIG Trower fan but always felt it should have been a dbl album.
stonoguy
September 8, 2014 at 3:00 am
Agreed!….Probably some of the best bass playing I have ever heard!!!
Benule
September 8, 2014 at 5:49 pm
I miss Uriah Heep Live from 1973
Haych
September 8, 2014 at 6:11 pm
Lou Reed’s “Rock n Roll Animal” should be on the list, as should “Free Live!” and Joe Cocker’s “Mad Dog’s and Englishmen.”
Hasse
December 27, 2014 at 9:08 am
I agree! The guitarr-intro to the show is classic!
Hasse
December 27, 2014 at 9:09 am
Amasing, you show up to have good taste in rock.
Gary Yarbrough
September 9, 2014 at 7:59 am
New Race –
The First And The Last
BILLY BIGSTIX
September 10, 2014 at 9:34 am
Made in Japan…Made in Europe…Slade Alive…Yessongs…Genesis Seconds Out…
gee-bee
September 10, 2014 at 5:17 pm
what the F…..Bless It’s Pointed Little Head- Jefferson Airplane
H Pie, only # 25????
Iñakink
September 20, 2014 at 10:41 am
To the Bone or One for the Road should be there!
Will Hemphill
September 20, 2014 at 12:19 pm
Another funny list, take a long long at Frank Zappa’ live albums…good lord Charlie Dick!
Kamanyan
September 20, 2014 at 3:35 pm
‘Rock of Ages’ by The Band is far better than ‘Last Wartz’.
Among the soul albums, don’t miss ‘Donny Hathaway Live’.
JohnL
September 20, 2014 at 11:30 pm
I love Cream’s but on Wheels of Fire only 4 songs are live the rest is from the studio.I’d say Cream Live Volume 2 is their best live album.
Desi
September 21, 2014 at 6:12 am
No Jimi Hendrix live Woodstock or.Band of Gypsies
Tex
September 22, 2014 at 12:49 am
Ten Years After, Recorded Live
Neil Barker
October 5, 2014 at 5:51 am
What about Strangers in the night – UFO, surely one of the greatest ever!
Tubbs
October 17, 2014 at 12:21 pm
Kiss? ?the musical masurbaters over RORY FUCKING GALLAGHER 1974 TOUR??What a joke Kiss’ stage show is amazing..to take ur mind off the fact that they are utter SHITE, just interested in merchandising, not music…obviously jews/americans ‘compiled’ the list!!! No UFO strangers??
Michael Young
February 25, 2015 at 11:33 pm
I’m American and Rory, Status Quo, and Slade get no respect over here and their live albums were better than some on that list.
Brent Getz
November 6, 2014 at 10:25 pm
The James Gang Live in Concert should have made the list along with Bob Seger and the Silver Bullet Band’s Live Bullet! Also The Who Live at Leeds and Jimi Hendrix Band of Gypsys!
Dee Reilly
November 7, 2014 at 3:01 am
Wishbone Ash” Hot Ash”, 1980, Yesshows. 1980, Deep Purple, Made in Europe, 1974, E.L.P. Welcome back my friends, 1974, E.L.P. in concert, 1979. Johnny Winter “captured live”, 1976. Wings, over America, 1976, April Wine, Live, 1981, Max Webster, Live magnetic air, 1979.Fleetwood Mac live, 1980. Del Amitri, Into the mirror, live 2014.
omar
November 7, 2014 at 3:20 pm
Kiss, come on people, it sucks,where is pink floyd `s Pulse
jim
November 7, 2014 at 11:27 pm
Top 25 ? s/b Top 100 or maybe even more !
bobj
November 8, 2014 at 4:34 am
Grand Funk Railroad Live should be high on the list. It didn’t make the list at all ? Shame. All time classic .
Michel Gignac
November 8, 2014 at 1:47 pm
I only really own one live album : Rick Wakeman’s “Journey To The Center Of The Earth”. All new music, a masterpiece.
tom vaccaro
November 9, 2014 at 10:22 pm
Come on, really?!?
Cream at #24 and Kiss at #5? PLEASE!
Akouri Ammar
September 6, 2016 at 9:38 pm
Thank you !!!!
cdngtrplyr
September 2, 2017 at 8:49 pm
Why is Kiss there at all ??
Scott Wigley
November 10, 2014 at 12:51 pm
OK how about LITTLE FEAT “Waiting For Columbus”, YES “Yessongs”, FREE “Live”, “Both” of BOB SEGAR’s live records, GRAND FUNK “Live”, any cool GOV’T MULE show, , , OK I’ll stop now.
wadeous
May 15, 2016 at 2:41 am
Yes Little Feat, Waiting for Columbus, one of the most overlooked live albums ever, sonds so good you think you were there!
Michael Albert
November 10, 2014 at 6:26 pm
Leon Russel: Leon Live
Ted Nugent Live
Lawrence Hudon
November 13, 2014 at 1:53 am
Anybody who thinks Kiss should be on this list should take serious music lessons. Hell most of the heavy metal bands my 20 + year old son listins to play better live music than them. Some names: In Flames, children of Bodom and a spinoff of Children, actually the guitar players original band Synergy are way ahead of anything KISS ever made.Again,one man’s genius is another man’s crap. It’s all a matter of taste.
David
September 2, 2015 at 6:48 pm
I understand your point about Kiss. But as far as sales and impact, Kiss Alive was a pretty important album in it’s day. Many good live recordings were left off but that the way these lists go. #1 they got right though!
hipychik
December 15, 2014 at 8:43 am
Nobody has mentioned Joe Cocker Mad Dogs and Englishmen. No Nukes. 4 Way Street should with out a doubt be on the list. I definitely do not agree with a lot of their picks. It’s all about opinion and as we know opinions are like….well you know the rest.
Hasse
December 27, 2014 at 9:06 am
Definitely Chicago IV. Was early Chicago greatest Hits from first three albums, played out live.
Amasing and everything. With Terry Kath and Peter Cetera. They were so well tuned together i Carnegie Hall shows
ron
December 27, 2014 at 9:48 am
Seconds Out -Genesis
søren duus
December 27, 2014 at 12:56 pm
Absolutely Live : Doors!!!!!!??????
Barry
December 27, 2014 at 1:06 pm
You need to relabel the list Greatest Rock live albums. There are no Jazz, Country, Pop, R&B recordings on the list. Personally i don’t segregate music it is either good or bad
Barry
December 27, 2014 at 1:11 pm
I must make a correction James Brown and Johnny Cash are on your list but it is still seriously lacking music from the rest of the world. Very narrow minded list which taints the excellent recordings that are on it.
vher villanueva
December 27, 2014 at 2:11 pm
where the hell is “SUPER SESSION LIVE” by JUAN DELA CRUZ BAND
Sergey
December 27, 2014 at 3:16 pm
Nirvana is rated too high ))
Michael Young
February 26, 2015 at 2:52 pm
Yes, Nirvana is rated too high in general. Make two so so records and you are some kind of music God. I don’t think so.
Jeff
December 27, 2014 at 3:56 pm
You forgot about-“Wings over America”, and “The Guess Who live at the Paramount”!!!
DGein
December 28, 2014 at 12:06 pm
25 Best is a short list some odd choices for such a list. 50 or 100 a bit more telling. Fond spot for Live Cream (vol2 not bad first one more straight up jamming every song) also Colosseum Live (1971) as well as Grand Funk Railroad Live and Steppenwolf Live. Both Woodstock albums love the rest of the Hendrix on Woodstock 2 as well as Jefferson Airplane. Other worthy adds already noted CSN&Y 4 Way Street, Hendrix Band Of Gypsies, The Band Rock Of Ages, Zappa Live Filmore East, Genesis Live (1973). No one mentioned King Crimson Earthbound though bootleggy in quality interesting period for that band. Pretty clear a larger list would include many of the other highlights as noted by others too. Good opportunity to cogitate on the history of rock. Jeez and what about a classic bootleg list Led Zeppelin Live On Blueberry Hill and of course the original Great White Wonder.
DGein
December 28, 2014 at 12:11 pm
Also played the crap out of Pink Floyd Ummagumma and Johnny Winter And Live the latter one of few examples of Winter and Derringer duking it out hard to find other material with that line up.
Michael Young
February 25, 2015 at 11:29 pm
Johnny Winter And Live classic live album.
George
December 28, 2014 at 7:06 pm
YESSONGS!!!!!!! YESSONGS!!!!!! YESSONGS!!! it should be top 5!!
Gérard
February 19, 2015 at 10:48 pm
I totally agree with you : Yes live is a must with Yessongs, Live in the House of Blues and the fabulous Live with Orchestra (Amsterdam, 2001)
leigh williams
December 26, 2015 at 10:34 pm
YES……YES!
don egan
January 7, 2015 at 6:16 pm
I hate just about every album you named with the exceptions of humble pie the who and the Allmans
Rich Sturtevant
February 15, 2015 at 2:06 pm
Would have to agree with several others. Grand Funk Live
Gérard
February 19, 2015 at 2:28 pm
Rory Gallagher’s Irish Tour ’74
Rainbow on stage
Deep Purple Made in Europe
Hot Tuna ‘s Double Dose
Grand Funk’s Live album
The J. Geils Band Live ! Blow your face out !
John Cale’s Sabotage
Lou Reed’s Rock ‘n’ Roll Animal + Lou Reed live
Blue Öyster Cult’s On your feet or on your knees
Thin Lizzy’s Live & Dangerous
Viva ! Roxy Music
The Byrds Untitled/Unissued
Great White’s Great Zeppelin
The Frost’s Rock and roll music
Dylan at Budokan
Crosby Stills Nash & Young : Four way street
The Doors’ Absolutely live
Michael Young
February 25, 2015 at 11:27 pm
I like Rory’s Live in Europe better than Irish Tour, but both should be on the list.
Dave
April 10, 2015 at 4:39 pm
For impact – hard to keep Frampton’s album out of #1 (and I didn’t particularly enjoy it …). Albums I DID enjoy that aren’t on here: Rare Earth – In Concert, and The Guess Who – Live at the Paramount.
Colin Hanaghan
June 4, 2015 at 2:45 pm
Some belters here some I don’t know, but since everyone of these lists is about personal opinions, Where is “If you want Blood” – AC DC?
gerryza
June 4, 2015 at 4:00 pm
Genesis – Seconds Out should get the nod
Ciaran o neill
August 19, 2015 at 12:25 pm
Stiff little Fingers HANX!
R C Justice
September 2, 2015 at 5:57 pm
what about The Last Days of the Filmore West That performance included Boz Scaggs Elvin Bishop, Santana, Malo, Cold Blood, Bloodstone, Quicksilver, It’s a beautiful Day, Grateful Dead, one of the best live albums ever.
wrb
September 2, 2015 at 5:57 pm
Partly right
The top 5
Europe 72
Too Late to Stop Now
Fillmore East
Live at Leeds
Get your Ya Yas out
Ritchie Peyton
September 2, 2015 at 5:58 pm
It’s in my personal favourites list and Mark says alright.
joseph monaco
September 2, 2015 at 5:59 pm
IMHO One of the most underrated bands and guitarist ever.
This is one of the best live albums ever.
https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQMuncl2d6nqXYgU-niRApsN4-bDtDAD-H32UYHQ_etVuoaeWqb:ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/81uQrSSabhL._SL1410_.jpg
WRB
September 2, 2015 at 6:03 pm
The best of the best
Europe 72
Too Late to Stop Now
Dylan & the Band in England
Live at Leeds
Get your Ya Yas out
Filmore East
Bangladesh
Terry
September 2, 2015 at 6:05 pm
How about J.Geils Band Live Full House? The best live band there is!
Geoff Hansplant
September 2, 2015 at 6:21 pm
Hmmm…….. Some great titles for sure, but I don’t see “The Concert for Bangladesh,” Jefferson Airplane’s “Bless Its Pointed Little Head,” or Lindisfarne’s “Magic In The Air,” one of the most criminally overlooked albums of all time!
Ed
September 2, 2015 at 6:36 pm
Your age certainly determines who ‘you’ think should be on here… For me, the two year period between 75-77 was ‘live’ album heaven in my book. Frampton Comes Alive, Kiss Alive, Ted Nugent Double Live Gonzo, Geils Blow Your Face Out; and the glaring one that is missing from this list, Seger Live Bullet!
David
September 2, 2015 at 6:38 pm
“How the West Was Won” was a far better live recording of Led Zeppelin than “The Song Remains the Same” Most of the list I am good with. Props for including Johnny Cash!
Nancy Jacobs
September 2, 2015 at 9:52 pm
Kiss @ # 5???? Give me a fricking break! Are they even a rock band????
Kevin
September 2, 2015 at 10:02 pm
Peter Frampton in the top 10, but Cream at number 24? What a joke. I think I’m going to puke.
dennis erenstone
September 2, 2015 at 10:29 pm
missed a lot agree with bless it’s pointed little head, happy trails, johnny winter live, bad of gypsies, live at leeds, inagada da vida , and the live adventures of al kooper and mike bloomfield, john mayall turning point!
Randy
September 3, 2015 at 1:14 am
What about Joe Cockers Mad Dogs and Englishmen ? Great live lp.
Patrick Rowlee
September 3, 2015 at 4:32 am
This list leaned toward heavy metal, but my only major beef is that the “Allman Brothers – Live at the Fillmore East” wasn’t # 1. They did miss “Delaney, Bonnie, and Friends Live – with Eric Clapton.”
Ray H
September 28, 2017 at 2:43 pm
No way Live at Leeds is # 1 Fillmore live started the whole thing recording live
William Arnold
September 3, 2015 at 12:31 pm
No J. Geils Band-Blow Your Face Out.
Bare
September 4, 2015 at 3:04 am
Ted Nugent Gonzo Double Live – a note worthy live album missing from this list
phil oats
September 5, 2015 at 7:19 am
the only one that would be in a similar spot on my list is live at leeds.
kaptain beyond
January 5, 2016 at 2:14 am
agreed.
Rusty James
November 4, 2015 at 1:34 am
NIRVANA?????? WTF!!!!!! And UFO Strangers in the Night, and Scorpions???? Bob Marley????Realy????
Dave
November 14, 2015 at 10:18 pm
How can you have this list of great live albums without the legendary Ted Nugent ”Doulble Live Gonzo” sacrilege
Generic Daryl
September 6, 2016 at 4:02 pm
BEST live albums, not most amateurishly mediocre.
Dennis Pilage
November 15, 2015 at 9:12 am
Quo live Appolo????
Skiddy
November 16, 2015 at 1:30 pm
Deep Purple Made In Europe or Rainbow On Stage
Mickey
December 20, 2015 at 3:15 pm
Anti Nowhere League ‘Live in Yugoslavia’. Great, timeless album.
srdjan
December 20, 2015 at 3:55 pm
Glenn Hughes Burning Japan best live album ever
Henry
December 20, 2015 at 4:36 pm
No Grand Funk, Yes, or J. Giles ????
David
December 20, 2015 at 4:58 pm
The Tubes – What do You want from Live
Rory Gallagher – Irish Tour
Dano
December 20, 2015 at 5:01 pm
I realize you have to be a true ” Supertramp ‘ fan to appreciate their music, but ” Paris ” is one of the greatest live recordings ever !!! oooh, and what about ” Yessongs ” ???
Dano
December 20, 2015 at 5:09 pm
alsoooooo,,, Pink Floyd’s ” Pulse ” if only for the reason it has ” Dark Side of the Moon ” in it’s entirety !!!
Gary
December 20, 2015 at 6:41 pm
Full House- The J. Geils Band
Mike
December 20, 2015 at 8:06 pm
Skynard should be much higher on this list. #3
Bob
December 20, 2015 at 11:36 pm
I totally agree Jim!!
Norm
December 21, 2015 at 4:18 am
I guess everyone has an opinion. My favorite to this day (and I’ve been around since 1950) is RARE EARTH in Concert.
Peter
December 21, 2015 at 10:24 am
I think there is a serious omission by not having The Doors, Absolutely Live on there.
Eddie
December 21, 2015 at 12:21 pm
Van Morrison’s Too Late to Stop Now or Too Long in Exile are great live albums, and where is Pink Floyd’s Delicate Sound of Thunder? Then there is Johnny Winter and Live or for something electronic Jean Michel Jarre’s Concert’s in China. Dire Straits’ Alchemy, Eric Clapton’s Rainbow Concert, Joe Cocker’s Mad Dogs and Englishmen, I could go on but we all have our favourites don’t we? Nothing written here will be definitive for everyone but being there is the best way to hear a live performance.
kaptain beyond
January 5, 2016 at 2:13 am
eric clapton’s rainbow concert has never made the top of any list. not even the best live albums recorded by eric clapton at the rainbow list! =D
Peloss
December 21, 2015 at 1:59 pm
Deaf ,and deaf ,no Otis Redding at Monterey…..???
Ian
October 13, 2018 at 8:42 am
Otis at the Whiskey is superior to Monterey – MGs playing is more dynamic and subtle, less too fast, fueled by pills and nerves jittery.
Otis had a lot riding on the Monterey performance, all involved knew it, thus were understandably anxious and wound up – it’s an exciting peformance but the club recordings stand up to repeated listening much better.
Peloss
December 21, 2015 at 2:00 pm
J agree ,but Otis at Monterey…..?
Peloss
December 21, 2015 at 2:08 pm
1) Band of Gipsys, 2)James Brown live in Zaire, Rory Gallagher live in Greece ,Otis in Monterey
J.W.Goette
December 21, 2015 at 2:56 pm
Wow talking about dropping the ball, This is not a poll it’s someone’s cruddy choice’s.
What happen were you rushed for time while all the time living a bubble, You should be Trumped with a swift kick, OMG,
Asger Kjaergaard
December 21, 2015 at 8:08 pm
Where is Super Session – Mike Bloomfield….???
kaptain beyond
January 4, 2016 at 6:17 am
not a live album. the double LP followup was. titled Live Adventures
wayne hoey
December 21, 2015 at 11:44 pm
Hendrix – Band of Gypies, Steppenwolf, Derek and the Dominos come to mind as being missed. Rush, Kiss, Thin Lizzy, Peter Frampton are unlistenable.
Lori
December 26, 2015 at 1:43 pm
WHAT …
NO Grand Funk Railroad,
NO Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers
Stormin
December 26, 2015 at 5:01 pm
Blue Oyster Cult “On Your Feet or on Your Knees”
Rainbow “On Stage”
UFO “strangers in the Night”
Then Johnny Cash
This list needed a little more cowbell.
Happy New Year
steve harkin
December 26, 2015 at 5:02 pm
Check out LIVE – THE SENSATIONAL ALEX HARVEY BAND.
leigh williams
December 26, 2015 at 10:30 pm
Celebration day? How about Rory’s ‘lrish tour ’74?, Lou Reed’s ‘Rock n Roll Animal!! ….and as a wildcard, a personal fav, Genesis Live.
Jean
December 27, 2015 at 2:45 am
Grand Funk Live for sure needs added!
Stanley Hilborn
December 27, 2015 at 8:01 am
What , no James Gang or Jefferson Airplane:”Bless It’s Pointed Head”? Also agree with where’s Grand Funk!
jeff sarrow
December 27, 2015 at 5:26 pm
Live at Fillmore East is, without a doubt , the best live album ever. Not even debatable.. Glad to see high ranking for JB live at the Apollo. Wheels of Fire should be top 10 (awesome version of Spoonful). Glaring omissions : Dylan 1966 at Royal Albert Hall
Phish “A Live One”
Counting Crows “Across a Wire”
Someone mentioned Airplane’s ” Bless it’s Pointed Head’ . Great album
jeff sarrow
December 27, 2015 at 5:29 pm
OOps! Forgot CSNY Four Way Street. Extended version of Southern Man is perhaps the best single recording ever,
Jorma Mustonen
December 27, 2015 at 6:16 pm
Where’s The Doors: Absolutely Live?????
Jeff
December 27, 2015 at 7:22 pm
One of my fav’s Nazareth- ‘snaz
Jeff
December 27, 2015 at 7:36 pm
oh and scorpions tokyo tapes!!!! Uli just jams on that album
kaptain beyond
January 3, 2016 at 6:26 pm
some of these are well known forgeries, like faked and/or totally touched up in the studio later. where is Ween’s Painting The Town Brown, TV’s The Blow Up, Meat Puppets Live In Montana, Robyn Hitchcock Gotta Let This Hen Out, Cream Live Vol. 2 (forget WOF), Fuzztones Live in Europe, Husker Du The Living End, Jefferson Airplane Bless It’s Pointed Little Head, Bob Dylan Hard Rain, & Royal Albert Hall 66, Butthole Surfers Double Live, Iron Butterfly Live, Hot Tuna Double Dose, Built To Spill Live, Robin Trower Live, Aerosmith Double Live Bootleg, Derek & The Dominoes In Concert, Rheostatics Double Live, Giant Sand Goods & Services, King Crimson USA, Throwing Muses The Curse, Spiritualized Royal Albert Hall, Nirvana From The Muddy Banks of the Wishkah, Fugs Golden Filth.
Jim Brinkman
January 10, 2016 at 2:43 pm
J Geils Band “Full House” 1971?
Springsteen – Cleveland 1978?
Beatles Live a the Hoilyood Bowl?
Jim Brinkman
January 10, 2016 at 2:45 pm
Full House indeed!
Gman94
January 15, 2016 at 10:43 am
Where is Rory Gallagher (Irish Tour ’74, Live in Europe) ?
michael
January 15, 2016 at 12:09 pm
It’s too early in the morning to list all of the omissions here but the first ones that come to mind are Jimi Hendrix – Band of Gypsies. Derek & the Dominoes – In Concert and Little Feat – Waiting For Columbus
Patvyn
January 15, 2016 at 12:36 pm
Missing:
– Gentle giant: Playing the fool
– Zappa: Roxy & elsewhere
– Jethro Tull: Bursting out
– Colosseum: Live
– Robin Trower: Live
– Little feat: Waiting for Columbus
spiderfrommars
January 15, 2016 at 2:57 pm
Number 0, meaning the real number 1 – Lou Reed ‘Rock ‘n’ Roll Animal’
R Dube
January 15, 2016 at 6:25 pm
An unpluggeg should not be considered
GFR should définitive lu be there
Ya Ya s Out is the best in my opinion for the period. Ask all bands they will tell you they were listening to it before going on stage. Live at Leeds is a good choice but not the best; the long version is disappointing. Frampton is overrared.
Steve Roberts
January 15, 2016 at 7:31 pm
Absolute bollocks. The GREATEST live show in musical history is PULSE by Pink Floyd. There has NEVER been a live gig before or since that comes close to that gig. Also you,ve missed Welcome back my friends….by ELP
Live in Montreux by Yes
On the Night by Dire Straits
Live at the Albert Hall……by Joe Bonamassa
If you want blood……..by AC-DC
Whoever put together your top 25 knows nothing about live gigs!!!!!!
Melproffit
November 23, 2017 at 10:20 pm
Amen on both brother
Melproffit
November 23, 2017 at 10:28 pm
Oops. Posted to wrong comment
Melproffit
November 23, 2017 at 10:22 pm
Yes On the Night is excellent as is Mark Knopfler A Night in London
Ken
January 15, 2016 at 10:12 pm
Absolutely Live is my favorite Jim Morrison. Sad to not see it included.
jeff sarrow
January 17, 2016 at 10:25 pm
Please give a listen to Babylon By Bus (Marley)
Donna Allan
March 26, 2016 at 4:43 pm
Could have done without KISS> Grand Funk Live was a great album.
John McT
May 14, 2016 at 8:04 pm
Many great ones listed but 2 missing. Back in the day Bob Seger really rocked and his double live album launched him to fame and also J Geils band had couple great live albums.
Buddy Puddy
May 15, 2016 at 12:58 am
“Blow Out” by TELEVISION.
Terry
May 15, 2016 at 2:45 pm
Got three of these! To those who deride the list, you should understand everyone has their personal favorites, and often love a particular style. ‘Favorites’ lists like this are meant to be a sampling of the ‘best of ‘ according to a wide range of people with varying tastes. Every person could pick their own 25 best using any criterion, and it would never match anyone’s else’s best. The fact that I could find three that I actually own was amazing. Hell, some of the ones people are throwing out as the best live albums ever are titles and even bands I have never even heard of.
Doug
June 2, 2016 at 7:26 pm
Triumvirat’s Live At Ultrasonics Studios, Nov. 1st, 1974 is the greatest!
Doug
June 2, 2016 at 7:32 pm
Actually, it’s October 1st.
Roger Stephens
June 2, 2016 at 11:41 pm
My best live album choice would be – “We are gonna blow your face out.” The J. Geils Band.
Chris Cope
June 2, 2016 at 11:44 pm
David Bowie Live at Santa Monica
Ramones Alive
Woodstock
3 of my all time favourite live albums and not a mention
Eddie
June 3, 2016 at 4:21 am
Drop Kiss and the Allmans and substitute Johnny Winter and Live along with Van Morrison Too Long in Exile.
A Netz
June 3, 2016 at 6:54 pm
Where is Genesis seconds out?? That is number one for me for sure!
tim echols
June 4, 2016 at 2:05 am
you missed lou reed, rock n roll animal. same guitarists as alice cooper’s classic band, dick wagner and steve hunter. it is my favorite all-time live album.
Leigh Williams
June 5, 2016 at 11:36 am
Haven’t seen anyone mention ZZTOPS Fandango. True just 1 side live but what a side!
geoff
June 5, 2016 at 12:12 pm
CSN&Y 4 way street
Kevin K.
June 5, 2016 at 12:32 pm
Missed 2. Steppinwolf Live and UFO Strangers in the Night.I prefer the original Strangers though.Didn’t care for the added songs on the remaster.Seeing a lot of Kiss haters here.Take a look around, that double live album is on every live list.Although this list does rank it at its highest that I’ve seen.By only 1 notch from a few lists though, including Rolling Stone Mag.
John Porta Jr
June 5, 2016 at 1:07 pm
Great to see Live Dead. But no Outlaws Live or Kansas???
Crazed Loner
June 5, 2016 at 1:48 pm
The Top 3 are spot on. The rest, despite their various and varying credentials, are just making up the numbers. But no Hendrix?
Andreas Schulz
June 5, 2016 at 2:32 pm
Rankings are shit! All people who make rankings are poor worms.
Hankster
June 5, 2016 at 4:45 pm
Always appreciate the efforts of anyone who invests the time and effort to prepare a “best album” list. Personally, I would have included Little Feat – Waiting For Columbus to the exclusion of anything from KISS. But everyone is entitled to their own opinion.
mikunitmr
June 5, 2016 at 5:52 pm
Why no “Strangers in the Night” by UFO?
Mick Brockwell
June 5, 2016 at 9:55 pm
No Zappa – Live at the Roxy? No Hendrix? How about Woodstock or even better: Live in San Diego 1969 -just over an hour of guitar mayhem.
Doctor Feelgood – Stupidity?
I agree with a lot of the previous comments re J Geils – Full House
billk
June 6, 2016 at 2:48 am
Yeah totally…No Grand Funk??????????
ric mcdurfee
June 6, 2016 at 5:47 pm
Who was the Turd Master that developed this list of 25 greatest “Live” albums? Must have only 25 albums. How can you not include The Last Waltz and two of Queen’s “Live” albums—“Live” at Wembley’86 and Queen “Live” Killers from 1979? Trying to whittle all the “Live” albums down to 25 was the most ‘brain freeze session’ one could have ever had. The best bet would have been to list the top 100 albums and not list them by # by your own personal choice.
Mervyn Dendy
June 6, 2016 at 6:07 pm
The list doesn’t include “Viva!” by Roxy Music, released in 1976. Easily the best live album of all time, in my view.
cora
June 26, 2016 at 8:48 pm
Live albums should reflect the feel of the concert, for me
the DOORS absolutely live, is the best live album
i also love Joni Mitchells with the LA Express,
Van Morrison Too LateTo Stop
MichaelM
June 26, 2016 at 9:57 pm
The people who made this list are probably younger than these concerts are are not familiar with the Grank Funks, Framton Comes Alive. What about Woodstock??? Blow all of these away including live at Leads. I love the Who but no, no no no no. Not the best. Sorry…
this list has zero credibility. Sorry man.
Arthur Woodson
August 25, 2016 at 9:17 pm
No Live Bullet by Bob Seger & the Silver Bullet Band , No Frampton Comes Alive, No REO Speedwagon Live, No Grand Funk Railroad Live, No Wings over America, No Eagles Live, Wow you have to be kidding ?
Alfred Childs
August 26, 2016 at 8:26 pm
J. Geils Band, Live Full House. I saw the tour. They were the middle of 3 groups, Slade opening, and Humble Pie headlining. J. Geils band knocked the place out, and the album came out about a month later.
Nashvillekat
September 6, 2016 at 4:04 pm
Frampton is at #7 on the list.
Marco
September 6, 2016 at 4:49 pm
It´ s one of the best Albums
Ed Levy
June 27, 2016 at 12:59 am
What, no Yessongs? or James Gang Live at Carnegie Hall? I know it’s all subjective, but…
Michael Ige
June 27, 2016 at 3:42 am
Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young- Four Way Street and Grand Funk Railroad- Live
Tom
June 27, 2016 at 6:07 am
Who did this? How can you forget Face to face from Steve Harley & Cockney Rebel und – hello? – the really best live album ever: Curtis / LIVE!??
jim
June 27, 2016 at 12:32 pm
Considering any list is immediately open to criticism, this one is pretty good. As long as you have the Stones and Who in the top 3. I might have added “Woodstock”, not only for it’s importance and variety but because of blistering performances by Ten Years After, Crosby Stills Nash and Young and Sly and the Family Stone. The live side of Mountain’s” Flowers of Evi”l is epic, as is “Slade Alive”, showing why they were one of Britain’s greatest bands of the 70’s.
Ray Watt
June 28, 2016 at 2:55 pm
This is a great list and I know everything can’t be included, but how do you miss .Lynyrd Skynyrd?
Freebird by itself is a great album
Just one man’s opinion..
James
July 9, 2016 at 11:56 pm
I would put the Woodstock on the list, since as a eighteen year old at the time it turned me onto such a long list of at the time unknown bands, such as Ten Years After, Paul Butterfield, CSN, etc. Not the best sounds.
James
July 10, 2016 at 12:16 am
What about Joe Crocker Mad Dog and Englishmen
Don Wobick
August 7, 2016 at 9:02 am
What about Van Morrison “It’s Too Late To Stop Now”
Armand Cistaro
August 25, 2016 at 9:25 pm
You could get rid of Thin Lizzy, U2, Talking Heads & Cheap Trick and replace with Grand Funk Live, Ramones – It’s Alive, CSNY – Four Way Street, and Dave Mason – Certified Live. In my opinion you could probably replace a few more.
Dennis
August 26, 2016 at 3:25 am
J.Giels Band. Live Full House !
Webfellows
August 25, 2016 at 9:35 pm
No Last Waltz but Frampton comes live. Let me grab my Peter Frampton lunch box.
davisunit
August 25, 2016 at 11:53 pm
EXACTLY the album I was looking for from the beginning!
Laci
August 26, 2016 at 10:24 am
I miss ELP Welcomw Back my Friends, Grand Funk Live Album from 1970, Uriah Heep Live from 1973 and Frank Zappa Live at Filmore East from 1971. I could extend the list upto 40, maybe 50 🙂
Laci
August 26, 2016 at 10:27 am
And, of course, Colosseum Live 1971
Alfred Childs
August 26, 2016 at 8:36 pm
J. Geils Band – Live, Full House
Procol Harem Live – with the Edmonton Symphony Orch.
Little Feat – Live in Neon Park
Paul McCartney – Wings Over America
Genesis – Seconds Out
Greg
August 27, 2016 at 7:09 am
Wow…did I actually read some guy saying drop the Allman Brothers Fillmore East…this album not only is one of the most dynamic in rock history the sound quality is amazing for it’s time. There are dozens left off the list yes…Little Feet – Waiting for Columbus, The Deads Europe 72 would have been my choice over Live dead.
One album that is clearly overlooked and personally I consider his best work and band ever is Santana’s Lotus album.
Cory F
August 28, 2016 at 5:05 am
Three words: BAND OF GYPSYS
(There’s a few other live albums that I’d definitely throw out in favor of others but this is the most obvious omission)
Ben
September 6, 2016 at 11:34 am
Joe Cocker – Mad Dogs & Englishmen
Tim Frueh
September 6, 2016 at 11:58 am
No. Not even close. You got about a half dozen of them right – though all in the wrong order. Try again.
Eric Hall
September 6, 2016 at 12:12 pm
Where’s –
“On The Road” – Traffic
“Live” – Colosseum
“Live Dates” – Wishbone Ash
and the best live album ever recorded –
“Live in the City Of Light” – Simple Minds
DONALD REAVES
September 6, 2016 at 12:28 pm
No Leon Russell Live, No Oasis Familiar to Millions…
Colin
September 6, 2016 at 1:02 pm
I saw the post and before I even looked at the list I had Concert for Bangladesh on my mind, great concert, but I guess most of you are too young to remember it.
Captain
September 6, 2016 at 1:27 pm
The better Cream choice is the Albert Hall Reunion album and Live 2. Trust me you’d have to build a wall to keep me from listening to these two recordings.
Skiddy
September 6, 2016 at 1:30 pm
I prefer Deep Purple’s Made In Europe rather than Made In Japan. Grand Funk Railroad is a big miss from this list & definitely a top tenner. Would have put Rainbow On Stage on the list too.
joe
September 6, 2016 at 1:45 pm
“CROSSROADS” and “SPOONFUL,” unsurpassed by any short and long improvs in rock history, were played back to back in the same magic set at Winterland. “Wheels of Fire” brought them to the masses. Saw Cream Nov 3rd 1968 Baltimore Civic Center.
Bo
September 6, 2016 at 1:49 pm
BAND OF GYPSYS
wayne
September 6, 2016 at 2:08 pm
listen to yessongs its all live triple album and those guys can really play
Kras
September 6, 2016 at 2:25 pm
Nice list, I would add:
Gentle Giant – Playing The Fool
Yes – Yessongs
Cardiacs – The Special Garage Concerts
Primus – Suck On This
King Crimson – The Night Watch & Absent Lovers
The Sex Pistols – Filthy Lucre
Madness – Madstock
Nirvana – Live at Reading
Queen – Live Killers or Live at the Rainbow’1974
Jethro Tull – Live Bursting Out or Carnegie Hall
Genesis – Live
Bowie – Ziggy or Santa Monica
Led Zep – Hot The West Was Won
Fantomas/Melvins – Millennium Monsterwork
David Cooke
September 6, 2016 at 3:21 pm
Just because your fave band make a live album does not mean that it will be great. Kraan’s studio output is so-so at times – and yet their mid 70s live album is a thing of awe and wonder. The hipster insistence that Nirvana MUST have a presence on any such list is laughable. Robin Trower LIVE is great until you hear BBC In Concert, which blows it out the water. Frank Marino’s live albums are ripping too. Sadly, a lot of live albums merely display moderately played greatest hits and are a cheap (from the record companies point of view) offering to fans for a fast buck. Most bands suck live.
Alan Crumlin
September 6, 2016 at 3:51 pm
Don’t believe any list that doesn’t include R L Burnside’s “Burnside On Burnside”
Generic Daryl
September 6, 2016 at 3:58 pm
Where’s ________ (insert favorite excluded band)? You totally lack credibility, man. But seriously – no “Live at the Paramount” by The Guess Who?
Javier PB
September 6, 2016 at 4:05 pm
So many left out. ….
Journey- Captured
Styx- Caught in the Act
Van Halen- Right Here Right Now
HSAS- Through the Fire
Scorpions – World Wide Live
Fleetwood Mac – Live
Gary Moore – We Want More
Kansas- Two for the Show
Chicago – At Carnegie Hall
Thin Lizzy – Live and Dangerous
……and the list go on…..
juan carlos
September 6, 2016 at 4:37 pm
Agree with Live At Leeds …. but what about Genesis “Seconds Out” and Queen “Live Killers” ??
Tommy Mac
September 6, 2016 at 4:51 pm
Nice list. I would add:
J. Geils Band – Blow Your Face Out
Mott the Hoople – Live
John Henfrey
September 6, 2016 at 5:27 pm
Rory Gallagher – Live in Europe. Should be on that list for Definate.
Rune Gundersen
September 6, 2016 at 5:41 pm
Why did you include Peter Frampton, the duke of prunes? Big selling figures?
Kalman Horti
September 6, 2016 at 5:52 pm
Ted Nugent. Double live. Gonzo!
Dick Johnson
September 6, 2016 at 5:53 pm
Foghat Live! Top 5 at least ,such an underrated band, they should be in the HOF.
Grahame
September 6, 2016 at 6:24 pm
No ranking for Hawkwinds Space Ritual…..a two hours mindfuck of the first order….you guys are amateurs
Mr P
September 6, 2016 at 6:32 pm
Never got Kiss , or MC5 , but what the hell .
Luis
September 6, 2016 at 7:38 pm
How can you not have Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band Live 75-85!!!
Tom
September 6, 2016 at 7:45 pm
A good coverage of most types of music, and there’s a few I was happy to see make this list. But one of the best live albums wasn’t included, Little Feat’s Waiting For Columbus. The revised CD version has added tracks that weren’t on the LP or first release CD. Its my favorite live album.
Fred Zepp
September 6, 2016 at 7:47 pm
No Edgar Winter & White Trash Roadwork is a big miss in my book.
bob
September 6, 2016 at 8:08 pm
Just a few omissions:
Neil Diamond Hot August Night Sinatra Live at the Sands Grand Funk Railroad ,YesSongs,ELP Welcome back my friends. Ted Nugent Double Live Gonzo Nanci Griffith Live ,Joni Mitchell Miles of Aisles, CSN&Y 4 Way Street, Jackson Browne Miles Davis Live at the Fillmore ,ill stop because there many, many, more but Ill close with the biggest omission Judy Garland Live at Carnegie Hall oh and The Band Rock of Ages
Alan Boney
September 6, 2016 at 9:09 pm
For me the greatest is live cream vol ll. And Steppin Out from that album the greatest track. Clapton is pure genius on this track. Led Zep should be much much higher. Like a few others can’t understand why Peter Frampton is in this list at all.
Ernest
September 6, 2016 at 9:46 pm
Missing: Janis & Big Brother; Jimi BoG; GFR; Dire Straights; Little Feat’ Doors, etc. Included: Kiss. Something stinks
Edd
September 6, 2016 at 10:30 pm
Rory Gallagher – Irish Tour ’74
Free- ‘Live’
Can’t have the list without em.
David Neesley
September 6, 2016 at 10:54 pm
Since this is such a subjective topic, who was the definitive purveyor of what is and what isn’t? Is this based on sales, personal taste, how stoned you were when you heard it, or you were at the actual concert when it was recorded? It would make sense that maybe Joel Whitburn would make these choice’s since he’s probably the #1 Rock music history buff in the world. When it say’s we’ve scoured the Net, means a collective effort on the part of people who haven’t be alive long enough to know who “The Beatles” are or stoners who have lived inside a bong their entire life? And suddenly “UDiscover Music.com crops up out of the blue with the definitive list of live performances from the masters of rock, with no other introduction or musical back ground other than “Here we are”. Highly suspect
Rich
September 6, 2016 at 11:31 pm
KISS should not be in the top 25 of any list.
Gary Reid
September 7, 2016 at 12:05 am
I would honestly brush Live at Leeds out the road to get at Hanx – Stiff little fingers.
Baz Williams
September 7, 2016 at 1:13 am
Missed out my favourite, Dylan’s 30th Anniversary concert with My Back Pages my favourite song
Mike
September 7, 2016 at 1:24 am
Say what you will. As long as Live at Leeds is STILL number one . I’m good with it !
armando quintero
September 7, 2016 at 1:29 am
where are The Doors absolutely live. Queen live killers and Eagles live I still wondering.
COLIN FRANKLIN
September 7, 2016 at 1:31 am
I would include ‘ THE GREATEST LIVE SHOW ON EARTH’ by JERRY LEE LEWIS and TEN YEARS AFTER’S LIVE AT KLOOK’S KLEEK as well as WELCOME BACK AGAIN TO THE SHOW THAT NEVER ENDS LADIES AND GENTLEMEN EMERSON LAKE AND PALMER but maybe if you see a recommendation here you haven’t heard before give it a try you may have been missing a gem.
Tim Morway
September 7, 2016 at 1:48 am
Wings Over America was the first album I ever bought about 40 years ago. Still my favorite, live or studio.
John Woodin
September 7, 2016 at 2:20 am
Supertramp “live in Paris” November 29th 1979 Nothing compares
Toad
September 7, 2016 at 4:05 am
Jan Wouda: I get what you’re saying, but music is always competitive. Orchestras have first, second and third violinists (and all other instruments, of course), so do marching bands. Jazz is famous for “cutting contests” where musicians try to outplay each other on the bandstand–it’s completely central to jazz culture. Bands are arranged by audition–when the Stones needed to replace Brian Jones, they had people in to play and then they chose who they thought was best: Mick Taylor won the COMPETITION. You want a gig? Be prepared to audition and beat out the other bands. You wanna play? Show us what you got.
Toad
September 7, 2016 at 4:31 am
Jeez, comment section, enough with the Grand Funk Railroad. I’m listening to Caught In The Act right now, and it’s good, but it’s not all that. The opener is amazing, but most of the rest is…good, it’s good, I’m not saying it’s not good, but you’re overpraising it. They were great for what they were, and what they were was a notch above Three Dog Night. Half a notch.
Speaking of funk, an album nobody has mentioned is Parliament’s P-Funk Earth Tour from 1977. George Clinton is a genius living among us–you people know that, right???
Also, not a rocker, but a great live album that I don’t think anybody mentioned is Joni Mitchell’s Shadows And Light. It’s got Jaco, Pat Metheny, Michael Brecker, and they all sound great.
Also, honorable mention to Nils Lofgren’s Night After Night. It isn’t one of the greatest, but it’s one you should know. Hard to find, it got dropped from his catalog but it’s his best album, I think; it’s REALLY good.
Hud
September 7, 2016 at 4:59 am
What about:
ELP – Pictures at an Exhibition
Leon Russell – Live
Jeff
September 7, 2016 at 5:59 am
Missing is 24 Nights by Eric Clapton unique and very live put together with 4 different bands/groups/orchestras recorded at the same venue…a must have in any library.
Unplugged by Clapton also missing and it launched many groups to unplug and show their true talent as singers and musicians. Also demonstrating that an acostic cover of Layla can top the charts for a second time an encore of a epic rock anthem.
Frampton Comes Alive is the greatest selling live album of all time and lead many of these other groups to try and duplicate his success. Truely an artist who’s live work was better than his studio work and his live music still gets airplay on radio, TV and film…40 years after release!
Led Zeppelins The Song Remains the Same was so good that the movie played at the Cinerama Dome like forever in the 70’s truely should be near the top of any list.
Wings Over America was so popular that a new generation met Paul and company and the Beatles were actually second place on his resume….which was “Maybe Amazing” at the time.
Deep Purple Made In Japan with live hits of Smoke on the Water and Highway Star that rivaled the success of the studio versions even to this day the live versions get airplay.
Fleetwood Mac the Dance reintroduced this legendary group to a new generation and several tracks climbed up the charts almost as high as the original studio versions.
Hot August Night when it came out and it was on the top of the album charts for years. At the time it was huge with all audiences and all ages and genres.
For age perspective I was young enough to see Van Halen when they were covering Led Zeppelin and Deep Purple and playing at a local Masonic Hall for $3.00 a ticket to see 3 bands.
JR
September 7, 2016 at 6:36 am
No Little Feat? No Kinks? No Bob Segar? No Lou Reed? But you include Nirvana, Iron Maiden, and U2? Of the four I mentioned, at least one of them has to be on the list, and yes, there is room for it/them when you remove the removable. Some great picks on the list, to end this rant on a positive note.
Mick Lee
September 7, 2016 at 6:44 am
This may come out of left field for you guys; but I would sugest Beach Boys Concert released in 1964. I realize The Beach Boys aren’t cool enough for a lot of you; but this album rocks!
kankankee
September 7, 2016 at 7:50 am
Woodstock is missing? How is that possible? What about Last Days of the Fillmore? What a bogus list.
Bob
September 7, 2016 at 9:11 am
Jefferson Airplane – Bless its Pointed Little Head
John Mayall – Turning Point
Johnny Winter – Live Johnny Winter And
TYA – Recorded Live
Allmann Brothers – At Fillmore East
And above all: Jimi Hendrix – Band of Gypsies
Not to mention:: Miles Davis – The Cellar Door Sessions, Agharta/Pangea, At the Fillmore, We Want Miles,…. Actually any of his many, many live recordings, all the way down to Bird.
Ralf
September 7, 2016 at 10:39 am
Hmm … What about Little Feat, Waiting for Columbus; Yes, Yessongs; Roy Buchanan, Livestock; Rory Gallagher, Irish Tour; Pink Floyd, Pulse … and more?
Fat
September 7, 2016 at 10:52 am
Dont know if any one else has mentioned them but, David Bowie Live at the Tower Philadelphia ( I think thats how its spelt ), Blue Oyster Cults On your Feet Or On Your Knees and a short one, Slade alive.
Patvyn
September 7, 2016 at 11:19 am
Colosseum – Live
Zappa – Roxy & elsewhere
Jethro Tull – Bursting out
Robin Trower – Live
UFO – Strangers in the night
Gentle Giant – Playing the fool
Camel – A live record
Little Feat – Waiting for Columbus
Patvyn
September 7, 2016 at 1:43 pm
and I forgot (shame on me)
Jeff Beck – Live at Ronnie Scott’s
Rory Gallagher: Irish tour
Rino
September 7, 2016 at 11:21 am
Genesis seconds out
Neil
September 7, 2016 at 1:35 pm
A real cop out list this. More of a ‘journalists most slobbered over’ than actual, ‘best ever live albums’. Nirvanas borefest at no.3? Yeah right… Made in Japan not in the top five? No UFO – Strangers in the Night? Kiss Alive in the top ten? Fun yes, a great live album no. No Lou Reed – Rock and Roll Animal, yet Creams mess of a workout on Wheels of fire is included!? No Bob Seger live Bullet, no Hawkwind – Space Ritual, no Genesis – seconds out, no BOC – Some enchanted evening? I know this will offend some people but the Who – Live at Leeds the best ever? With the awful sound and scrappy performances? Sorry, it’s the most overrated, and over egged live album ever.
Bert Truman
September 7, 2016 at 2:09 pm
You left out the #1 live record of all time – Band of Gypsys with Jimi Hendrix. And #2 is Lou Reed – Rock and Roll Animal. Kiss at #5? Please….
David Pearcy
September 7, 2016 at 2:20 pm
Where was Jimi Hendrix – Band Of Gypsys
Rory Galagher Live
Mountain – The Road Goes Ever On
Uriah Heep Live
To name a few……just sayin.
Paula Kenley Freeman
September 7, 2016 at 3:29 pm
Yessongs is missing…..
Kevin Green
September 7, 2016 at 3:55 pm
This is a magic gem- Gentle Giant- Playing the fool – Superb LIVE arrangements of their complex kick ass music!!!!!!
Kevin Hough
September 7, 2016 at 3:58 pm
I was at one of the Humble Pie shows (late show 11:30). I liked and preferred all the Cream live albums, I always though they had a totally different sound live. We wore out the groves on Live Cream Vol I, I still listen to I – II, wheels of fire. Jack Bruce’s bass really pops on II.
Willie Krause
September 7, 2016 at 4:43 pm
All mentioned albums are good but Live at Leeds by THE WHO stands out, well done !!!
Michael
September 7, 2016 at 4:58 pm
KISS should not be on this list, it’s a known fact that they were not live, just studio tracks with overdubbed live audience.
I would have included Judas Priest “Unleashed in the East”, and Ozzy Osbourne, “Speak of the Devil”.
Smarty
September 7, 2016 at 5:45 pm
Bill Withers Live at Carnegie Hall has been overlooked by virtually everyone!! The Who and Allman Brothers are as expected in the top 5.
Steve S
September 7, 2016 at 6:47 pm
Ludicrous omissions due to very conservative tastes and a loss of interest in music after the 70s! No ACDC ‘If You want Blood’; Muse ‘HAARP’ ; Jeff Buckley ‘Mystery White Boy’; The Frames ‘Set List’; Krafterk ‘Minimum Maximum’; Sam Cooke ‘Live at Harlem Square ’63’ and the No.1? Zep’s ‘How The west was Won’!
Dave Joubert
September 7, 2016 at 8:37 pm
Why do some people get so serious and offensive? Someone drew up a list and it was great to read it (and totally disagree with some of the choices) and read the comments. But some people are so disrespectful. Would they say what they say to your face? I think not. certainly not t my face. Well, not twice anyway.
Someone mentioned Free. that was it, no further comment. I think Free is/was the most underrated rock band of their era. They have an album called Free Live but apparently it is a compilation of live performances stitched together. But for those of you who don’t know Free, check them out. Paul Rodgers is still alive and is one of the greatest rock vocalists ever (in my humble opinion), and Paul Kossof was a truly gifted (but troubled) lead guitarist who died early. Not to mention a great bassist, great drummer, keyboardist. I would recommend listening to “Fire and Water” and Mr. Big” for starters.
Dave Joubert
September 7, 2016 at 8:41 pm
I just read that Andy Fraser died last year of Karposi’s Sarcoma. Listen to his bass playing on “Mr. Big”
Ken Brown
September 7, 2016 at 9:36 pm
J. Geils Full House and Hendrix Band of Gypsys
Randy O
April 24, 2019 at 12:44 am
Nailed it
jan skow
September 7, 2016 at 10:03 pm
mis 4 way street by CSNY
Pepper
September 7, 2016 at 10:26 pm
Nirvana does not belong on this list… and I know only half of these are live, but what about ZZ Top’s “Fandango!” and Pink Floyd’s “Ummagumma” live bits? And The Mothers “Fillmore East” is a must as well~!
Steve S.
September 7, 2016 at 11:38 pm
@Dave Joubert – I’ll consider myself told off there and point well made but consider please that this is a website purporting to represent the ‘best of the best of’ lists and not a private individual who maight be offended, hence my mild cynicism. Anyways, thanks for reminding me of Paul Rodgers – as a result I just recalled the current tour and booked my tickets for Bad Co in Nottingham!
This is a great thread and thanks to all for contributions of albums that don’t appear in the regular best of lists – I’ve started listening to many of the suggestions list already. Lou Reed’s ‘Rock n Roll Animal’ is top notch. Keeping the thread going, how about an alternative top live albums list? As in not just Dad (Grandad?) Rock but including other genres. I have:
1. Silver White Light: Live at the IoW – Terry Reid
2. Death to The Pixies – Pixies
3. Set List – The Frames
4. Live at Hammersmith Vol1 – The Enid
5. Live, Manchester & Dublin – Rodrigo y Gabriela
6. Live at Leeds – John Martyn
7. The Long Goodbye – LCD Soundsystem
8. Maximum Darkness – MAN
9.Live at Ronnie Scott’s – Curtis Mayfield
10. Live at Harlem Square ’63 – Sam Cooke
11. BBC Radio 1 Live in Concert – New Order
12. With Strings: Live at Town Hall – Eels
13. Irish Tour 74 – Rory Gallagher
14. Live Bootleg – Hound Dog Taylor and the House Rockers
15. Dr Feelgood – Stupidity
16. Mystery White Boy – Jeff Buckley
17. Everything Everything – Underworld
18. Live At The Marquee – 9 Below Zero
19. Big Time – Tom Waits
20. PNYC – Portishead
Berry
October 18, 2016 at 12:17 am
Santana-Moonflower, Wishbone Ash-Live Dates
John Shackleton
October 13, 2018 at 12:16 am
Moonflower definitely. Also Live Herald Steve Hillage and Space Ritual Hawkins.
McQ
November 7, 2016 at 10:24 pm
Pretty solid list – I’d move Motorhead up several spots, and Otis Redding Live In Europe or The Otis/Jimi Hendrix split Monterey Pop LP are better than several selections here – but otherwise, damn solid list
McQ
November 7, 2016 at 10:26 pm
Oh, and Lou Reed’s Rock ‘n’ Roll Animal belongs iin the top 10.
Jerry G
November 11, 2016 at 12:12 am
Best that I know of
James
November 7, 2016 at 11:56 pm
So many omissions.
Hawkwind, Space Ritual
X, Live at the Whisky
Yes, Yessongs
Bauhaus, Press The Eject and Give Me The Tape
Jefferson Airplane, Bless Its Pointed Little Head
Rare Earth, In Concert
King Crimson, USA
Crowded House, Farewell To The World
Slade, Alive
Rory Gallagher, Irish Tour ’74
Colosseum, Live
Fump
November 8, 2016 at 7:18 am
And…UFO – Strangers in the Night?
Delaney
January 11, 2018 at 12:00 pm
didn’t have a chance to read through all of the comments but I didn’t see any love for Tom Petty’s Pack Up the Plantation…seriously great live album at the height of his career with the Heartbreakers.
And, oh yeah, UFO Strangers in the Night is one of the greatest live albums ever.
And a personal favorite is Flogging Molly Live at the Greek…simply amazing.
Chris
November 10, 2016 at 3:48 pm
Top 5 psych live albums:
1. Jimi Hendrix Experience – Live at monterey
2. Quicksilver Messenger Service – Happy Trails
3. Electric Prunes – Stockholm 67
4. Grateful Dead – Live/Dead
5. Mighty Baby – Live in the attic
Ole
November 10, 2016 at 8:26 pm
Hendrix : Band Of Gypsys (Greatest live album ever)
The Doors : Absolutely Live
Jerry G
November 10, 2016 at 11:58 pm
Rock and Roll Animal Lou Reed #1
Jerry G
November 10, 2016 at 11:59 pm
Rock and Roll Animal Lou Reed #1
Captain
November 15, 2016 at 9:17 pm
I’d throw MOST of that CRAP right on the CAMPFIRE.
Wheels of Fire is fantastic along with the Allman Bros. You might want to consider these albums: The MOTHERS at the Fillmore, Absolutely Live – DOORS. RORY Gallagher Irish Tour, WOODSTOCK , MONTEREY , NEIL Young at MASSEY HALL l, DYLAN Before the Flood.
Berry
November 15, 2016 at 11:23 pm
No live albums from The Boss in the list? Such a shame!
My favourite live album is: Bruce Springsteen & The E-street Band – Hammersmith Odeon London ’75 which was released in 2006.
Peter Angenent
November 16, 2016 at 8:39 am
This is a list for kiddies,only one album belong’s on no. 1
Live At The Starclub – Jerry Lee Lewis & The Nashville Teens (1964)
Jim C.
November 18, 2016 at 3:42 pm
Rory Gallagher “Stage Struck” Leon Russell “Leon Live”, Hendrix “Band Of Gypsy’s,” ,Humble Pie “Eat It”, Crosby-Stills-Nash-Young “4 Way Street.”
phill c
November 18, 2016 at 5:07 pm
What about Free live.
william
November 18, 2016 at 6:33 pm
I totally agree with #1. I still have my original 8 track of Live at Leeds…I actually have Cheap Trick Live album as well..But to leave off the “”Johnny Winter ‘And Live”” album discredits this list
Geoff
November 19, 2016 at 4:22 am
Two great albums come to my mind, one that everyone knows and one that you would probably only know if you were from England. The first is “The Concert for Bangladesh,” the very first all-star charity concert. George Harrison, Ringo Starr, Eric Clapton, Bob Dylan, Ravi Shankar and Leon Russell (among a throng of others). Absolutely wonderful. The second is my pick as the greatest live album ever recorded, “Magic in the Air” by Lindisfarne. Recorded live at the Newcastle City Hall, it lives up to its “Magical” title with the band in perfect form. If you don’t know the band, they were / are Folk Rockers who made their first impression in the early 1970’s, contemporaries of Fairport Convention and the Strawbs, but with a little bit more of a roots rock vibe. You should check them out!
david
February 1, 2017 at 5:54 am
I reckon Jethro Tull ‘Bursting Out’ and Wings ‘Over America’ would have to rate in the top 10 surely?
baward
March 3, 2017 at 8:15 pm
The albums that people deservedly rate, but which are missing from this list (mine are ‘Waiting For Columbus’ by Little Feat and ‘What Do You Want From Live?’ by The Tubes) are missing because this web page is published by Universal.
verystrange
September 1, 2017 at 7:08 pm
What about Queen Live at Wembley? Bob Seger and the Silver Bullet Band “Live Bullet?” The Tubes’ “What Do You Want From Live?” Elton John “Here and There?” Oingo Boingo “Farewell?” Elvis Costello & Steve Nieve “Costello & NIeve?” Don’t know if you need to listen to more live albums or I do!
GEORGE FOTAKIS
September 2, 2017 at 8:24 pm
VAN DER GRAAF GENERATOR – VITAL
HAWKWIND – SPACE RITUAL
Gerhard Hemmleb
September 2, 2017 at 9:33 pm
I miss “Bursting out” of Jethro Tull
Marcus
September 2, 2017 at 11:44 pm
Whaaaat….???……No “Band of Gypsys” by Jimi Hendrix released April 1970…???….”Machine Gun” alone is the planet’s best live cut EVER…!!!……..
Shaughn Ziech
September 3, 2017 at 6:09 am
Stand In The Fire – Warren Zevon, Running On Empty – Jackson Browne, Genesis – Seconds Out, Bob Dylan& The Band – Before The Flood
Jake the dog
September 3, 2017 at 8:41 am
Hmm, this list is fifty/fifty
mike D bassplayer
September 3, 2017 at 2:20 pm
didn’t see Robin Trower Live ! from 1975 on that list either. fantastic live album.
Jim Reilly
September 30, 2017 at 1:05 am
I agree 100% on this album, also my two cents: David Bowie Live—1974. Play it loud with Earl Slick on lead guitar ! ! Love that album.
Kerry Emery
September 3, 2017 at 4:17 pm
Yeah….Ten Years After Recorded Live, Grand Funk, Hendrix….. someone missed a few obvious ones….and a few others as well….
gregg
September 3, 2017 at 6:01 pm
derek and the dominoes live fillmore… allman live fillmore
EJ Nolan
September 3, 2017 at 7:33 pm
As a Detroit music fan, how could you leave out Bob Seger’s Live Bullet? And my vote for the 2 best livecalbums of all time? J Giles Full House (Recorded ay Detroit’s Cobo Arena) and Edgar Winter’s White Trash “Roadwork” Listen to those 2 albums and the sheer Rock energy will blow several of these out of the water. Special Mention: Tower Of Power 40th Anniversary at the Fillmore. Fantastic vibe, energy and musicianship. Trewtbyourself. Check em out.
Antonio
September 3, 2017 at 8:27 pm
The Doors Absolutely Live! Jimi Hendrix Band of Gypsys! John Mayall Turning Point! Lou Reed Rock and Roll Animal! David Bowie Live at the Tower Philadelphia!
Jeff
September 3, 2017 at 8:32 pm
WOODSTOCK*]%{]_*^^_!!!!!!!
yves
September 3, 2017 at 9:48 pm
yesss..GFR is one of the greatest band …especialy live!!!
Norm Tyrrell
September 3, 2017 at 10:33 pm
My favorite live album of all time was Rare Earth in Concert.
Ronald Hoogland
September 3, 2017 at 10:55 pm
The Doors – Absolutely Live!!!!! is more than just a live album!!!!
Jim Caparosa
September 3, 2017 at 11:16 pm
Two that come to mind- 1) Woodstock 2) Celebration Day
EBZ06
September 3, 2017 at 11:42 pm
RORY GALLAGHER- LIVE IRISH TOUR ’74 !!!!!
JD Smith
September 4, 2017 at 12:04 am
What about the TUBES? Superior production and performance.
patrick lopez
September 4, 2017 at 12:10 am
What,not A single one of the Dead,s live albums ? And how the hell could you miss Hendrix,s Band of gypsies too? I,d add the short lived band “old and in the way”s only album as well. Was Dark side of the moon included? HOW the hell could it not be !!!
Dan
September 4, 2017 at 1:30 am
Grand Funk’s “Caught in the Act” needs to be on this list, and Led Zep’s “The Song Remains the Same” should be in the top five. Those are my two grips.
Dan Bissonette
September 4, 2017 at 1:35 am
Johnny Winter And Live should be on this. Honorable mention to Procal Harem and The Edmonton Symphony Orchestra and Buck Owens at Carnagie Hall.
Jeff Miller
September 4, 2017 at 2:42 am
Grand Funk Live and Steppenwolf were staples of my youth.
Victor Duncan
September 4, 2017 at 3:24 am
Live Evil from Black Sabbath in 1982, probably one with the best sound from a live album.
Darrell
September 4, 2017 at 3:31 am
Yeah GFR WAS THE BEST LIVE BAND! Missing Seger’s Live Bullitt also!
Mike
September 4, 2017 at 5:26 am
Agree about Grand Funk! What about CSN&Y 4 Way Street!
Søren Skaarup
September 4, 2017 at 6:35 am
Deep Purple at nr 13? .. you got to be kidding!
Doug
September 4, 2017 at 7:54 am
Call me an old folkie, but Reckoning is my favorite live Dead album. Europe ’72 is also great. I could never figure out what was supposed to be so great about Live/Dead. It just seems noisy and long.
Kin Bentley
September 4, 2017 at 7:55 am
Huge omission: Band of Gypsys by Jimi Hendrix. No greater live album, especially that version of Machine Gun which alone is a masterpiece.
Ronald van Blerck
September 4, 2017 at 8:06 am
a list like this without Queen Live in Earls Court or Rock in Rio, Live in Budapest, Montreal or Wembley or anywhere else on the planet means you have an omission or the the list is too short.
Glenn Smith
September 4, 2017 at 10:47 am
NO Derek and the Dominos at Filmore… common ??? A bullshit list, Frampton yes, Stones yes, where is Hot August Night ?
Purple made live in Japan a classic, where is Dylan at Budokhan 78 ? Sadly the Springsteen 75-78 isnt a live concert really, clapton and harrison is Japan is legendary and unrepeatable..a crap list
Sandro DIas
September 4, 2017 at 1:18 pm
YES Songs of Yesterday?
Kiss<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<Yes
Papi
September 4, 2017 at 5:08 pm
WOODSTOCK??????
ROLY BELLAMY
September 4, 2017 at 5:34 pm
PINK FLOYD THE WALL & PULSE !
Steve
September 4, 2017 at 5:53 pm
Little Feat “Waiting For Columbus, J Giels Band “Full House”, George Harrison “Bangladesh”, Bob Seger ” Live Bullet”
Jim
September 4, 2017 at 7:38 pm
Yea, there’s no damn way KI-USS is ahead of Skynyrd, Rush, Cream, Zepplin, Cheap Trick . No damn way. Kiss is just a bunch of painted face poofters.
Joe
September 4, 2017 at 9:44 pm
Where is Bob Seger and the Silver Bullet Band’s Live Bullet?
Joe
September 4, 2017 at 9:47 pm
I canNOT believe Bob Seger and the Silver Bullet Band’s Live Bullet isn’t on this list! No overdubs, no sweetening in the studio! A hungry, road-tested band playing in front of their hometown friends!
Dave Chagnon
September 4, 2017 at 10:51 pm
Absolutely Grand Funk Live deserves to be on this list, somewhere!
Fester Lester
September 4, 2017 at 11:14 pm
What is it with the Live At Leeds obsession? It’s an average live album and no way in the class of The Allman Brothers, Derek and the Dominoes, Hawkwind, Deep Purple, Zeppelin and so on. It’s…OK and that’s it.
Goldy
September 5, 2017 at 1:07 am
Roadwork by Edgar Winter’s White Trash, Chuck Berry – The London Sessions (half live, half studio)
Sergey
September 5, 2017 at 10:28 am
Hope this is not a rating. Just a sloppy list
Rafael
September 6, 2017 at 7:35 pm
Busting Out – Jethro Tull
ken
September 7, 2017 at 3:13 am
Best live albums? How about Bloodrock, James Gang, Dave Mason Is Alive, Traffic On the Road, Steppenwolf Live, (Grand Funk Live Album should be “cleaned up – if possible – so you can at least hear the opening minutes of Into the Sun…and how about Grateful Dead Skeleton and Roses, Slade Alive, Iron Butterfly Live, Savoy Brown (the live side of Blue Matter), Taste AT the Isle of Wight, The live side of Cactus, ‘Ot ‘n’ Sweaty…the various artists on the Mar Y Sol 2 LP set (Osibisa, Nitzinger, Emerson, Lake and Palmer, Jonathan Edwards, John Baldry, J. Geils Band), Live Cream, Volumes 1 & 2. 🙂
Patrick Vyncke
September 7, 2017 at 1:35 pm
1. Zappa: Roxy & elsewhere
2. Colosseum: Live
3. Gentle giant: Playing the fool
4. Deep purple: Made in japan
5. Robin Trower: Live
6. the Who: Live at Leeds
7. Jethro Tull: Bursting out
8. UFO: Lights out
9. Humble pie: performance – rockin’ at the Fillmore
10. Camel: A live record
Bruce
September 12, 2017 at 5:44 pm
WINGS OVER AMERICA is better than 1/2 these albums!!!!
William Smith
September 14, 2017 at 2:49 pm
Certainly can’t argue with the # 1 choice, I concur wholeheartedly !!!
Andrzej Maciagowski
September 26, 2017 at 7:52 pm
Recorded live Ten Years After Bursting Out Jethro Tull Live Taste Whishbone Ash Live Dates
James Paul
September 9, 2019 at 9:20 pm
Now you’re talking TYA Best live alblum ever!
Joe Kenny
September 27, 2017 at 1:12 am
Steppenwolf Live
Roman Jones
September 27, 2017 at 6:44 pm
J.Geils “Full House’…I was at one of those shows
JERRY McCORMICK
September 27, 2017 at 8:30 pm
WHO EVER MADE THIS LIST IS AN ASS HOLE. KISS ALIVE IS NOT A REAL LIVE ALBUM. THE AUDIENCE IS A SOUND BYTE. AND WHERE IS “RAUNCH ‘N’ ROLL” BY BLACK OAK ARKANSAS? & ON YOUR FEET OR ON YOUR KNEES BY BLUE OYSTER CULT? WHERE IS WOODSTOCK???
Peter T Zselensky
September 28, 2017 at 4:16 pm
I agree the most nominees of the other commenters, plus I think KISS and CHEAP TRICK highly overestimated
Mike
September 29, 2017 at 8:24 pm
“Viva” by Roxy Music…Uriah Heep “Live”…too many others that top some of these choices.
Doc
September 29, 2017 at 10:19 pm
You forgot Jerry Lee Lewis Live At The Star Club lol………………
Steveo
September 30, 2017 at 4:42 am
i would have though Humble Pie would be higher in the list. Glad it made it though! One of my favorites! Oh and Genesis “Seconds Out” also greatness!
Michael Harvey
September 30, 2017 at 5:36 am
the bros by far
Rich
September 30, 2017 at 11:18 am
Derek & the Dominos “In Concert”
Eric Clapton “Eric Clapton’s Rainbow Concert”
J. Geils Band “Full House•Live”
Big Brother & the Holding Company “Cheap Thrills”
Poul Hermansen
October 2, 2017 at 5:20 pm
Hmm..
Where is Doors: “Absolutely Live” ?
David Rayner
November 19, 2017 at 8:06 am
Where’s Rory Gallagher’s Irish Tour 74
Melproffit
November 23, 2017 at 9:56 pm
Amen on Dire Straits. Best live ever. Also great-DMB Listener Supported
Clifton Isaacs
January 9, 2018 at 8:29 pm
Not a bad list, not at all. But noticeably absent was ROBIN TROWER LIVE! the one on his old label, Chrysalis. There are still songs on there that have spoiled me such that I can’t stand the original album versions, having heard the live ones first!
jeff Buckley
January 9, 2018 at 8:40 pm
Started off strong then fell apart. No UFO Strangers in the Night, no AC/DC If you want Blood, no Foghat live, no Rory Gallagher – these are all easy top 10 albums. Bullshit list!
Jacques
January 11, 2018 at 11:18 pm
Hi, What about Joe Cocker: Mad dogs and English Men???
TNap
March 7, 2018 at 8:04 pm
UFO -Strangers in the Night
nigel mears
March 8, 2018 at 5:44 pm
what no Quo !!
Victor Duncan
March 9, 2018 at 9:19 pm
Live Evil from Black Sabbath and Live in Paris from Supertramp .
Garrett Jennings
September 6, 2018 at 2:58 pm
I agree with “Live at Leeds” at #1 especially the the double-CD re-release in the 90’s which included this version of “Amazing Journey/Sparks” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zNzOA_sy5DE
But I agree with comments above re: missing live albums from Seger, Wings, Genesis and also Peter Gabriel.
steve waggoner
September 7, 2018 at 7:46 pm
ELP welcome back… ??? Jimi ??? Bangladesh ??? John Lennon NYC ???
Marki James Meli
September 8, 2018 at 8:20 am
One of my favorite live albums is the HOLLIES LIVE HITS by the Hollies. It came out in 1976 and 13 years in to their career, they sound fantastic.
Nigel Bishop
September 8, 2018 at 6:40 pm
No Woodstock?
Al
September 11, 2018 at 1:48 pm
REO Speedwagon “You Get What You Play For” should make the list. Yeah I know, but it was before they discovered the LOVE ballad, Play For kicks ass
Dave Ingram
October 12, 2018 at 4:33 pm
Good list but here’s my top five from my collection.
You Can’t Argue With A Sick Mind – Joe Walsh
Together – Johnny and Edgar Winter
Welcome To The Club – Ian Hunter
Full House – J. Geils Band
We’ve Got A Live One Here – Commander Cody & His Lost Planet Airmen.
Staffan Hempel
January 3, 2019 at 5:53 pm
UFO “Strangers in the night” belongs in the top ten
BluesRockGuy
February 1, 2019 at 9:51 pm
Rory Gallagher Irish Tour ’74
Don Shay
March 20, 2019 at 9:21 pm
“On Your Feet Or On Your Knees” – Blue Oyster Cult (pre-cowbell era). BOC was always a better band live than in the studio, and this album shows why! “Before The Kiss (A Redcap)”, “ME-262”, and “Hot Rails to Hell” are precursors to what would be known as “heavy metal”, and the cover of The Yardbirds “Ain’t Got You” is better than the original.
Bjørn Hesvik
March 20, 2019 at 11:35 pm
Arr you tottally out of it!!!???
ABSOLUTELY LIVE….THE DOORS!!!!!
B-JORN
BW
March 20, 2019 at 11:40 pm
LOU REED ROCK AND ROLL ANIMAL
ELTON JOHN 11-17-70
Dan Dee
April 23, 2019 at 1:29 am
Grand Funk instead of ski yard.
Mick
July 7, 2019 at 7:43 pm
Good list, I would add U2- Wide Awake in America and Bruce Cockburn – Circles in the Stream
Jens Magnussen
July 8, 2019 at 12:38 am
This list isn’t worth a cent without a Zappa album. Zappa was the master og live albums!
John
September 9, 2019 at 7:49 pm
Missing the Kinks Waiting for Columbus
Ed
September 10, 2019 at 1:57 am
Yessongs, James Gang Live In Concert. Steve Hillage “Live Herald”..
berniefb
September 11, 2019 at 9:41 am
Not read through all the comments, so I’m not sure if it got a vote, but “801 Live” would definitely be near the top of my list.
Paul Kleine
September 12, 2019 at 12:13 am
Yeah, no mention of Genesis ‘Seconds Out’ or AC/DC ‘If You Want Blood’, Ozzy ‘Live & Loud’ – unbelievable….. just a lazy predictable article.
david
September 12, 2019 at 10:08 am
‘On Your Feet Or On Your Knees’ by Blue Oyster Cult featuring a sublime version of ‘Last Days Of May’
Allan Scheef
September 13, 2019 at 10:41 am
I miss Colosseum Live on thies list.
CARl
October 12, 2019 at 4:29 am
Ted Nugent Double Love Gonzo is better than All of these
Pope Nick the Great
October 24, 2019 at 2:52 am
Agree GFR should be on the list.
But to leave out LOU REED’s “Rock & Roll Animal” (1974) is positively criminal!!!
Oh and “Ya Yas” should be #1, The Who at #3 — just my opinion, and your mileage may vary.
Stacky
March 1, 2020 at 10:26 am
How could Neil Diamond’s Hot August Night miss out
Recording quality & performance very hard to beat
Hippie
March 6, 2020 at 2:46 am
Golden Earrings first live album.Amazing!!!! ‘Nuff said………………….
B heatley
March 13, 2020 at 2:48 pm
Argumentative again , no UFO no dr feelgood no Alice cooper,I’m sure you do it on purpose.
Brian Springall
March 14, 2020 at 11:16 am
Four Way Street – Crosby Stills & Nash, Beach Boys In Concert
Craig
April 18, 2020 at 6:16 pm
Don’t know if it’s been mentioned, that a lotta comments to go through, but you missed the first live album by Golden Earring. Should be in the top ten at least!
Jeff Miller
April 29, 2020 at 12:07 am
Grand Funk and Steppenwolf were THE live albums back in the day. I would have to add UFO, also.
Phil Chadwick
June 10, 2020 at 5:35 am
What about Slade Alive ? I’ve listened to many Live Albums over the years and for me personally I rate Slade Alive as the best live Album of all time, it’s 100% Live and straight to the point, not too long and boring or full of self indulgent solo’s, it really Rocks along and has the best version of Born To Be Wild I’ve ever heard. Everybody is entitled to their opinion and this is mine…Keep On Rockin’. And at number 2 I would rate Deep Purple’s Made In Japan (another 100% Live Album), but a whole side of Space Truckin’ is a bit much…cheers
Big Red Jonson
October 1, 2020 at 11:08 pm
Honorable mention (in my top 25): The Outlaws – “Bring It Back Alive” (if for nothing else, the live version of “Green Grass and High Tides”); Pat Travers – “Go For What You Know”; Ozzy Osbourne – “Randy Rhoads Tribute”; Grand Funk Railroad – “Caught In the Act”; Jeff Beck “With the Jan Hammer Group”.
William Genovese
November 12, 2020 at 11:59 am
This list misses one of the most iconic live albums ever.
Benny Goodman and His Orchestra Live at Carnegie Hall 1938.
Benny Goodman, Freddie Green, Harry James, Gene Krupa, Jess Stacy, Babe Russin. I am not sure there was ever a better set of musicians that excelled live than those guys and the others up on stage that night.
Their 912 minute run that night on an arrangement of Sing, Sing, Sing made it a hit like never before. Every arrangement after that on Sing, Sing, Sing is based upon that live version.
The Original version: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NQGh-NjM0iw
The Carnegie Hall version: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qUbgwADLFPM
maccafan
January 26, 2021 at 9:27 pm
No
Wings
Mother’s Finest
Johnny Winter
Stevie Ray Vaughn
Your list is incomplete!
Mark1095
June 11, 2021 at 11:51 am
Waiting For Columbus has to be near the very top of this list. I’m glad others are noting the mistake of omitting that tremendous album.
3rd Chris
July 25, 2021 at 4:57 pm
Yet another list that looks like it was made up on the fly by someone with little actual experience of the subject. NO Zappa – several great live albums from him, NO King Crimson – MANY killer live releases, NO Bowie ditto (but not as many), NO Lou Reed (would pick Rock and Roll Animal, where is Yessongs?, Genesis – Seconds Out & Live?, Mahavishnu Orchestra – Between Nothingness & Eternity?, Wishbone Ash – Live Dates?, ELP – Pictures At An Exhibition & Welcome Back my Friends?, PFM – Cook?, Slade – Alive!, Magma – Live 75, Retrospective I-III, La Trilogie, Opera De Rheims, Theatre du Taur, plus several more, Amon Duul II – Live in London, Hawkwind – Space Ritual, Tangerine Dream (sort of live) Ricochet, Encore, Logos, Poland etc, Klaus Schulze – Live, Dziekuje Poland,etc, Renaissance – Carnegie Hall, Jeff Beck with the Jan Hammer Group, Billy Cobham…. Cobham Duke – Alivemuthforya & Live in Europe, Todd Rundgren – Another Live, Blue Oyster Cult – On Your Feet Or On Your Knees, Gong – Live etc, Gong Est Mort, Steve Hillage – Live Herald, Live in Germany etc, Miles Davis – quite a few – especially the 70’s ones, Gentle Giant – Playing The Fool etc, Grobschnitt – Solar Music Live, Roxy music – Viva, there are loads more!
Mark1095
October 27, 2021 at 12:13 pm
Absurd to leave out Little Feat’s Waiting For Columbus. Easy Top 10.
Will Fletcher
January 27, 2022 at 9:14 am
No mention of the greatest live band of them all EW&F. The first afro American band to fill stadiums check out Gratitude Alive in 1975 and Live in Rio
Charles
January 29, 2022 at 1:47 pm
In large part this is about preferences, but I don’t understand all choices that were made.
I think a live album should at least convey the feeling of a live show. A live compilation like the Bruce Springsteen collection would definitely not be in my top 25. He has made more impressive live recordings.
Furthermore, the list has a strong North American bias. I miss Supertramp’s Paris, Wings over America, Seconds Out by Genesis, any live album by Pink Floyd, Bowie, my all-time favourite: John Cale’s Fragments of a Rainy Season, any album of Brel in l’Olympia,
And what about women? Adele, Heather Nova’s Blow, Janis Joplin. I even miss some American classics, like Stevie Wonder’s Natural Wonder and 4 Way Street by Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young.
Txadams
March 22, 2022 at 5:40 pm
Very surprised the critics didn’t feel compelled to list any rap or hip-hop live album as I’m sure Rolling Stone would. That’s because those genres sound even worse live. They miss UFO’s “Strangers in the Night” though. Probably the most underrated live album ever.
Paul
March 23, 2022 at 5:11 pm
Little Feat is doing a 45th anniversary tour of Waiting for Columbus. Saw it in Atlanta last night and loved it. Of course it didn’t quite match up to the original performance, but seeing it along with about 1,550 fans who know every word made for great memories and fun. Leaving off makes this list a bit of a farce.
José Alberto
May 30, 2022 at 12:41 pm
All great albums. I do not share the order, that is based on personal taste. I love it SLADE ALIVE! Keep on Rocking,
Ralf
September 23, 2022 at 11:30 pm
Hmmm… As for the classics I am definitely missing AC/DC’s If you want blood – widely considered one of the best live recordings ever. Moving away from the all-too-obvious, you – as professionals should always accept new additions to what’s been a well conserved traditional list. For example, I’d absolutely put Gary Clark Jr. Live among (at least) my live top 20! Two other contenders on my personal list of top live recordings: J. Geils Band, Showtime and French rock outfit Téléphone’s live double album Le Live which is similarly energetic as If you want blood. You just feel the musicians urge and passion to perform with every note. Another IMHO excellent but (for these kind of rankings) largely ignored album: is Depeche Mode’s “101”! (I am basically a “rocker” myself but really there’s more to music (also live music) than rock, blues and the far more than averagely live recorded jazz.
Ralf
September 23, 2022 at 11:42 pm
Oh by the way: Regarding the immense live output by The Rolling Stones over the decades I always very MUCH preferred the IMHO criminally misjudged and underrated ‘Love You Live’ to the ever-so-prominent ‘Get yer Ya-Yas Out’. I think that Love You Live pretty much perfectly captures the feel and atmosphere of a good 1970s bluesrock gig.
Pete
May 27, 2023 at 11:53 pm
A Top 50 is a stupid idea of course when there are hundreds of very good live albums in the seventies alone
Chris
October 16, 2023 at 6:00 pm
KISS Alive was a real live album. It’s Alive II that was recorded in a studio setting, with the audience added.
Steve grosch
May 30, 2024 at 5:32 pm
Errol garner – concert by the sea
Gentle giant – playing the fool
Focus – at the rainbow
Al di meola John McLaughlin paco de Lucia – Friday night in San Francisco
The kipper family – fresh yesterday
Humphrey Littleton – live at the Conway
Good to see unble pies effort in there superb album