Arena rock

The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, Grand Funk Railroad and The Who began the practice of live performances for large audiences in stadiums and arenas. The growing popularity of metal and progressive rock led to more bands selling out large venues. Entertainment companies marketed a series of arena rock bands, such as: Journey, Boston, Styx, REO Speedwagon, Heart, and Foreigner in the late 70s.

Although The Beatles did not find this form of performance to their taste, other bands carried on, driving the development of technology for large scale concerts, notably The Who, Pink Floyd and Queen.