Teaching students about the history of music and influential figures should be an interactive and enjoyable experience. One such figure is Steven Tyler, best known as the lead singer of the legendary American rock band, Aerosmith. With a career that spans over five decades, Tyler’s band has left an indelible mark on the world of rock and roll. Here’s how to engage students in an exciting lesson about Steven Tyler Band – an unforgettable musical journey.
Background Information
Begin by providing your students with some background information on Steven Tyler and his band. Born Steven Victor Tallarico in 1948, he formed Aerosmith in Boston in 1970, along with Joe Perry, Tom Hamilton, Joey Kramer, and Ray Tabano (later replaced by Brad Whitford). This lineup came to be known as the “classic Aerosmith” and produced iconic hits such as “Dream On,” “Sweet Emotion,” “Walk This Way,” and “Love in an Elevator.”
The Early Years
Teach your students about Aerosmith’s early success in the 1970s with their first albums: “Aerosmith” (1973), “Get Your Wings” (1974), “Toys in the Attic” (1975), and “Rocks” (1976). These albums provided hit singles that were both commercially successful and influential to other musicians.
Overcoming Challenges
Introduce your students to how Aerosmith faced several challenges throughout their career, including drug addiction, personal conflicts, and declining popularity. Discuss how Steven Tyler battled these adversity to stage a remarkable comeback for the band during the 1980s and 90s with albums such as “Permanent Vacation,” “Pump,” and “Get a Grip.”
Collaborations
Highlight some of the key collaborations that Aerosmith has had throughout their career. From working with Run-DMC on a revamped version of “Walk This Way” in 1986, which introduced the band to a new generation and helped popularize rap-rock, to other notable collaborations such as Alicia Silverstone in their iconic 90s music videos, Diane Warren’s songwriting, and even duets with Country singer Carrie Underwood.
Awards and Accolades
Show the students the recognition Aerosmith has received over their lifetime, including Grammys, American Music Awards, MTV Video Music Awards, and an induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2001.
Classroom Activities
Incorporate various engaging activities related to Steven Tyler Band into your lesson plan:
– Discussing favorite songs: Ask your students to listen to several Aerosmith songs and talk about their favorites, analyzing the lyrics message and musical composition.
– Assigning research projects: Assign students individual or group research projects to further explore the history of Aerosmith’s career or biography of band members.
– Creating a timeline: As a class activity, students can create a visual timeline of Aerosmith’s milestones with significant events and album releases.
