What are some of the most memorable concerts held in Cincinnati?

Cincinnati hosted iconic concerts by The Beatles, Prince, Elvis Presley, The Rolling Stones, and Jimi Hendrix, among others, and birthed major music festivals.

What tragic event occurred at a concert in Cincinnati?

A human stampede before The Who's concert at Riverfront Coliseum on December 4, 1979, resulted in 11 deaths and 8 serious injuries.

Was N.W.A.'s concert in Cincinnati controversial?

Yes, N.W.A.'s 1989 performance at Riverfront Coliseum stirred controversy, with community leaders denouncing their appearance and the group later receiving citations for profane language.

Home / Arts and Entertainment / Cincinnati's Shocking Music History: From Beatles to NWA

Cincinnati's Shocking Music History: From Beatles to NWA

2 Dec

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Summary

The Beatles played a unique show in Cincinnati, traveling to two cities in one day.
A 1979 stampede at Riverfront Coliseum tragically killed 11 concertgoers.
N.W.A.'s controversial 1989 concert led to disorderly conduct citations.

Cincinnati's Shocking Music History: From Beatles to NWA

Cincinnati's vibrant music scene is highlighted by the performances of iconic artists and its role as a hub for major music festivals. Legendary acts such as The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, Prince, and Taylor Swift have graced the city's stages, contributing to its rich cultural tapestry. From The Beatles' unique 1966 performance, where they played two cities in one day, to the Woodstock-style Cincinnati Summer Pop Festival in 1970, the Queen City has a storied past.

The city's concert history is also marked by significant and somber events. In 1979, a tragic stampede before The Who's concert at Riverfront Coliseum resulted in 11 fatalities. N.W.A.'s 1989 performance at the same venue was met with controversy and led to disorderly conduct citations for profane language. These events underscore the complex and impactful nature of Cincinnati's live music legacy.