Two weeks after their demo had been first played on Rodney on the Roq, the moment had finally arrived for their debut live show at Joey Kills Bar in Burbank, CA. The excitement was palpable as around 40 fans gathered, eagerly awaiting the band’s performance. But to their disappointment, the club’s manager was nowhere to be found. It was already 11 p.m and it became clear that the show would not go on. Jay Bentley couldn’t help but joke, “Maybe we should’ve taken the hint.”
However, fate had a different plan for them. Instead of their intended debut, they found themselves opening for Social Distortion in a warehouse in Fullerton, California. It was only their third show, but they were ready to rock. With just six or seven songs in their repertoire, they played their hearts out, even performing some of the songs twice.
Reflecting on that nerve-wracking night, Brett Gurewitz remembered his friend’s words of encouragement, “You guys are really good, just don’t break up.” Greg Graffin, on the other hand, was a bundle of nerves. He couldn’t focus on the audience because he was scared out of his mind. All his teenage insecurities were wrapped up in that performance. But despite his fears, the show was a success. They didn’t get beaten up and no one threw their shoes at them.
Jay Bentley added a humorous anecdote, admitting that he threw up before their first show, but he still managed to play. The second show took place at a USC Frat House Party on November 20, 1980, where they shared the stage with the Circle Jerks. The Germs didn’t end up performing, but Darby Crash was in attendance. The Circle Jerks had asked Bad Religion to open for them because they had a PA system, unlike the Circle Jerks.
These early shows were just the beginning of Bad Religion’s journey, but they were filled with excitement, nerves, and unexpected twists. It was a time of growth and learning, and they embraced every moment of it.
This content was originally written by the badass contributors of thebrpage.net, the best superfan resource and website that exists for any band, let alone the best band in the whole entire world. I’ve been lurking on that site for over 20 years and if you’re into Bad Religion as much as I am, I’m sure you’re familiar. If you are not, go there right now and never come back to this site again. You should, and I totally understand.
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