Rock 'n' Roll Pranksters: Wild Antics and Outrageous Stunts in Music History
Rock 'n' roll musicians are known for their mischievous antics and love for pranks. From Elton John crashing the stage dressed as a gorilla during a Stooges show to Johnny Cash releasing 500 baby chickens in a hotel, these musicians have a history of pulling off outrageous practical jokes. Joe Walsh's chainsaw antics and Black Sabbath's spooky castle pranks are just a few examples of the wild stunts rock stars have pulled off over the years. The Ramones' urine-filled drinks and Kiss and Rush's epic cream pie fight on stage are also part of the rock 'n' roll prank lore.
George Harrison, known as the "quiet Beatle," also had his share of fun, as he once played a prank on Phil Collins by pretending to include his conga parts in a mix. Tool and Nine Inch Nails have also played their fair share of pranks, with Tool once claiming their music was leaked and Nine Inch Nails announcing a fake album produced by Timbaland. Sheryl Crow and John Mayer's bear costume prank and Metallica's staged pyrotechnic explosion during a concert are other memorable moments in rock 'n' roll prank history.
The rivalry between bands like Kiss and Rush or the Joe Walsh Band and the Doobie Brothers often led to elaborate pranks, including strippers on stage and zoo animals being brought backstage during performances. Led Zeppelin fans were once teased with the idea of a reunion featuring Bjork as the new singer, and Rainbow's Tony Carey fell victim to a practical joke by Ritchie Blackmore and Cozy Powell who tried to brick up his room. Keith Moon's penchant for blaring false public service announcements in British villages adds to the legacy of rock 'n' roll pranks. Rock musicians have always known how to have a good time, and their playful antics continue to entertain fans around the world.