Sunset Boulevard’s British Invasion ‘74/’75
Another amazing post from the Voices of East Anglia blog. Apologies for blatantly plagiarising the idea, but it’s just too good not to share these amazing pictures.
The blog showcased some of the advertising billboards on Sunset Boulevard between 1974 and 1975. At the time Los Angeles had become the centre of the global music industry from a financial and creative perspective. Acts like James Taylor, the Eagles, Neil Young, and Joni Mitchell had all relocated to the area and British acts were quick to see the importance of the West Coast from a marketing perspective too.
Below are some of the amazing Billboards that graced this infamous Los Angeles strip. Thanks to the VoEA blog and to Larry the Frog for uploading these to his flickr account!
What we love about the photos is not only just how ridiculously oversized and over the top they are, but also the details - the houses hidden behind them, the cars which are a mix of 1970s sports cars and more classic American autos, and, of course, the blue, blue skies.
English “supergroup” Bad Company
Elton John’s sold out gig…
Mott the Hoople and David Bowie close to the Roxy and the Whisky a GoGo, now infamous local music clubs
Cat Stevens’ Budda inspired album…
The Who’s Odds and Sods…
Donovan’s Sold Out gig
Another Elton advertising his greatest hits (in the mid-70s!)…
Rod Stewart’s Smiler…
George Harrison’s own Dark Horse Records which released all of his music post 1976.
Eric Clapton’s 461 Ocean Boulevard with fake palm tree.
Joe Cocker looks a little sad…
Ladies and Gentlemen… The Rolling Stones - their original film release, it has since been remastered and released on DVD.
Bill Wyman’s questionable Monkey Grip…
Rick Wakeman’s journey to the centre of the earth…
Yet another Elton John billboard with his trademark oversized glasses…
Maggie Bell, England’s Number One female vocalist… (really?…)
