Bill Medley of the iconic duo The Righteous Brothers recently shared his experience of opening for two of the most legendary bands in music history – The Beatles and The Rolling Stones. In a candid interview with Billboard, Medley revealed that while both experiences were unforgettable, opening for the Rolling Stones was “more fun” for him and his partner Bobby Hatfield back in 1964.
The Righteous Brothers embarked on a whirlwind tour in 1964, first opening for The Beatles during their first American tour in August and September, followed by opening for the Rolling Stones in October and November of the same year. Despite the overwhelming hysteria and adoration from fans that The Beatles commanded, Medley pointed out that opening for the Stones was a more musically satisfying experience.
During the Beatles’ performances, Medley vividly remembers the deafening screams of fans shouting out for their favorite band members. The intense fan obsession with The Beatles sometimes overshadowed their own performance, with fans clamoring for the Fab Four even as The Righteous Brothers took the stage.
On the other hand, the Rolling Stones, who were still on the cusp of mainstream success, provided a different atmosphere. The calmer response from the audience allowed Medley and Hatfield to focus more on their music, making the experience of opening for the Stones more enjoyable from a musical perspective.
Reflecting on the historic significance of sharing the stage with both iconic bands, Medley acknowledged the unparalleled impact and legacy of The Beatles. Despite the challenges of performing amidst the frenzy of Beatlemania, the experience of being part of music history with The Beatles remains a cherished memory for Medley.
The Rolling Stones, who were steadily rising to fame at the time, offered a contrasting yet equally memorable experience for The Righteous Brothers. The opportunity to witness the Stones’ musical journey firsthand, just before their meteoric rise to superstardom, left a lasting impression on Medley and his partner.
Decades later, Medley continues to captivate audiences with his music, touring as The Righteous Brothers alongside Bucky Heard. His upcoming album, “Straight from the Heart,” features a collection of country songs that showcase his enduring passion for music and versatility as an artist.
As music enthusiasts and fans of The Righteous Brothers eagerly await the release of Medley’s new album, his reflections on opening for The Beatles and the Rolling Stones offer a fascinating glimpse into a bygone era of rock ‘n’ roll history. The enduring impact of these legendary bands, and the shared moments on stage with them, continue to resonate with Medley as he reflects on a remarkable chapter in his storied career.