What are the Things You Should Know About Monsters of Rock?

Do you know about a large crowd that visited merely to attend a musical concert? The largest gathering took place in Russia, where approx. 1.5 million people visited. Can you believe this concert was held nearly before the Soviet Union’s fall? Yes, there was a heavy metal festival held during the fall of 1991, the year which witnessed the Iron Curtain’s fall. This is how the Monsters of Rock Moscow sprang to life. The idea of the entire Monsters of Rock commenced in 1980 in Castle Donington, England, which gained a monumental in the next few years.

As a result, more famous bands were included in the lineup of the rock and metal scenario. Although the show was initially meant to be a one-time event, it was conducted again due to its popularity. Monsters of Rock are successful in putting up shows throughout Europe. However, the show faced huge difficulties while selecting the bands that would be featured. Owing to Soviet isolation, the show’s organizers faced huge difficulties in learning about the popular bands in Russia.

Hence, the festival organizers chose the most renowned metal bands that became the show’s main headliners. Among these popular bands were Metallica, Pantera, and AC/DC. The show was conducted on 28 September within Tushino Airfield, an existing site for military Soviet exercises. On the day this event was held, a crowd of people swam inside the airfield as early as possible, while the events were supposed to start at 2 p.m. sharp. Pantera were the first ones to perform. Pantera’s recordings can be viewed online, whereby the set’s energetic and loud atmosphere has been captured, leaving the audience in awe. However, Metallica’s performance captured the heart of the audience as 1.5 million fans showed up. Soviet guards present during the event were facing difficulties in settling down the chaos. Several helicopters can be seen in the video footage that aimed to silence the rowdy fans.