What’s your favorite concert bootleg? You know, those unauthorized concert recordings bought and sold at flea markets and traded among fans? Got a tasty sample of Van Halen from the band’s club days, a Springsteen recording from the 1970s, or a U2 tape from the ‘80s?
Concert boots come in all shapes and qualities. Some were recorded right off soundboards while others originated from concealed tape recorders carried into venues by fans. And, yes, some were recorded strictly for profit, and sold via back page classified ads in music magazines and regional fanzines.
Bands and artists have love-hate relationships with boots. Although some acts disdain unauthorized concert bootlegs, others even encourage illicit recordings. While The Grateful Dead might be the granddaddy of concert boots, other bands have encouraged their fans to record performances and trade them among their peers. Yes, we’re looking at you, Metallica. But we’re also looking at that Page / Plant tour from the ‘90s and The Black Crowes anytime, anyplace.
So, what’s your favorite boot? If possible, identify where the recording was made as well as the time period, then post your thoughts in the comment thread below.