Wednesday, 15th April 2015
Vivian Campbell 2013
Vivian Campbell made his first public appearance as a guitarist for Def Leppard 23 years ago today in Dublin, Ireland.
The show at McGonagles Club in Dublin on 15th April 1992 was a warm-up before the band appeared at the Freddie Mercury tribute concert five days later. That show was to be the official unveiling of the replacement for the late Steve Clark who had died in January 1991.
This show was also notable for the only playing of the song 'Die Hard The Hunter' with Vivian in the band which was not included after this first show. A song that will of course be played again in 2016 during the Pyromania album residency in Las Vegas.
As a warm-up for the Freddie concert the band also played Queen's 'Now I'm Here'. Read a media review and view the setlist on the show page.
Check back later tonight for Live Blog Setlist/Photo Updates from Show #1 of 2015 in Penticton, BC.
Vivian is undefeated and returning to play a full live show with the band on the anniversary of his first ever appearance.
An interesting twist as the first show without him in September 2014 was at the same venue as the 1992 Freddie Mercury show.
Shown below is a fan photo taken during the Adrenalize tour.
Dublin, Ireland 15th April 1992 - Media Review Quote
"Although this gig took place before any official announcement was made, his appearance was not entirely unexpected. Popular with the crowd straight away, Joe's request for a "welcome to the family" brought roars of approval which forced a coy smile from Vivian. His style blended in perfectly with the Leppard sound, and he also came across well alongside Phil Collen."
Vivian Campbell - March 2015 Interview Quote - Read More
2015 Studio Album
"I gotta say in the 23 years, even though I'm the new guy in Def Leppard, in the 23 years I've been in the band this is the band's strongest album in that time and we're really excited about this."
- Def Leppard - Dublin 1992 Show Page
- Def Leppard - Adrenalize Tour 1992/1993
- Previous News - 14th April 2015