The Oldest Music Bands Still Performing Concerts Today
When considering music bands that have been actively performing over the years, several remarkable groups stand out in the annals of musical history. Among these, The Who is one of the oldest bands still actively playing concerts today, alongside The Beach Boys and the Helsingin balalaikkaorkesteri Helsinki Balalaika Orchestra.
The Who - Rocking Through 1964
The Who, founded in 1964, is one of the veterans in the rock music scene. Despite the 2019 passing of Keith Moon in 1978, the band continues its legacy with members Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, Charlie Watts, and Ron Wood. Rolling Stone still tour with an impressive lineup of original members and have been active since their 1962 debut.
Helsingin Balalaikkaorkesteri Helsinki Balalaika Orchestra - A Century of Music
The Helsingin balalaikkaorkesteri Helsinki Balalaika Orchestra was established in 1910 and remains one of the oldest music groups still performing. This group has contributed significantly to the continuation of traditional Finnish music and ensures that the balalaika tradition lives on.
The Four Tops - A Year Before the Stones
The Four Tops, formed in 1953, are another enduring group with one original founding member, Abdul “Duke” Fakir. The band has been active since 1965, performing with their vocal harmonies intact, making them yet another testament to the enduring spirit of live music.
Golden Earring - The Golden Anniversary
Golden Earring, formed in 1961, have had two original members ever since their establishment. They continue to tour, most famously known for their hit song "Radar Love". The band is still together and has been active since 1970, ensuring their musical legacy continues.
Irish Folk Group - The Chieftains
The Chieftains, formed in 1962, are an iconic folk group that has toured globally. One of their original members, Paddy Moloney, has been a consistent presence, performing live alongside the band for 55 years. This longevity makes The Chieftains one of the oldest performing music groups today.
Other Notable Groups
Several more names worth mentioning include The Beach Boys, who formed a year before the Rolling Stones in 1961, and the Dells, a vocal group that formed in 1952 and temporarily disbanded in 2012 after a long career. Other groups like The Scorpions and ZZ Top formed in the late 1960s and continue to tour with all the original members from the start.
Lastly, individual musicians like Wanda Jackson, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Loretta Lynn continue to perform despite being in their 80s and 90s, demonstrating the enduring legacy of live music.
Conclusion
The musical landscape is rich with longevity and passion. Beyond the Rolling Stones, there are several bands and individual artists who have maintained their active performing careers, making significant contributions to the world of music.