Cheap Trick was formed in 1972 as Guitarist Rick Nielsen, drummer Bun E. Carlos, and bassist Tom Petersson and vocalist Randy "Xeno" Hogan had been in bands in their native Illinois throughout the late 60's/early 70's and join forces. Hogan left shortly after their formation and was replaced by Robin Zander.
By 1975, they had recorded their first official demo and after seeing them at a gig in Wisconsin, was signed by Epic records. In 1977/78 they released three albums to some critical acclaim, but lackluster record sales. They also released six singles, which all stiffed except for "Surrender" which hit #62 in the fall of 78.
Meanwhile, across the Pacific, all three albums went gold in Japan, and their popularity was at a fever pitch. The decision was made to travel there and to also record a live album. What happened was almost a Beatle-like response from the Japanese, and a live album that blew away their studio efforts. "Cheap Trick at Budokan" became the album that launched them into stardom, and led the way into becoming the best known power pop band of all time. You heard the studio version above...we leave you with the live version..
By 1975, they had recorded their first official demo and after seeing them at a gig in Wisconsin, was signed by Epic records. In 1977/78 they released three albums to some critical acclaim, but lackluster record sales. They also released six singles, which all stiffed except for "Surrender" which hit #62 in the fall of 78.
Meanwhile, across the Pacific, all three albums went gold in Japan, and their popularity was at a fever pitch. The decision was made to travel there and to also record a live album. What happened was almost a Beatle-like response from the Japanese, and a live album that blew away their studio efforts. "Cheap Trick at Budokan" became the album that launched them into stardom, and led the way into becoming the best known power pop band of all time. You heard the studio version above...we leave you with the live version..
