The Time Aerosmith Played Through A Power Outage With Acoustic Guitars

March 20, 2025

It was the summer of 2014, and the air was electric with anticipation as Aerosmith prepared to take the stage at the Jones Beach Theater in New York. Fans packed the venue, their excitement palpable, each one hoping to hear the legendary rock band belt out their greatest hits. The lights dimmed, and a thunderous cheer erupted as the band members walked into view. Steven Tyler, with his signature scarf-adorned microphone, smiled at the crowd, while Joe Perry strummed his iconic guitar, ready to ignite the night. But just as the first notes rang out, disaster struck. A heavy storm rolled in unexpectedly, and in a flash, the power went out, plunging the theater into darkness.

For a moment, shock settled over the audience like a thick fog. The band had just begun a world-class performance when everything came to a halt. But instead of being disheartened, the members of Aerosmith quickly regrouped. They could have walked off the stage, called it a night, and blamed the weather, but that wasn’t the Aerosmith way. With a determination that resonated with the fans, Steven Tyler called out to the crowd, his voice cutting through the darkness. “Who needs electricity when we’ve got music?” he shouted, igniting a spark of hope in the fans’ hearts.

The band grabbed their acoustic guitars and gathered close to the front of the stage, illuminated only by the faint glow of cell phones. In that moment, the entire atmosphere shifted. What could have been a disaster transformed into an unforgettable experience. The audience fell silent, wide-eyed and curious, as Tyler began to strum a soft, melodic tune. He sang “I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing,” the haunting chords echoing through the darkness. The crowds responded, some swaying and others singing along, their voices blending with Tyler’s in a moment of unity.

As they played, the power outage became a bonding experience. Fans lit up their phones, turning the arena into a sea of flickering lights, creating a starry night that mirrored the passion of the performance. The band played on, sharing anecdotes and stories behind their songs between melodies. It was as if each chord struck a deeper connection between the band and their fans, reminding everyone present of the magic that music can bring, even in the darkest times. The moment was raw and unfiltered; it was simply about the music and the spirit of togetherness.

By the end of that impromptu acoustic set, the storm outside had subsided, and the power flickered back to life, illuminating the stage once more. But Aerosmith had already created something special that night—a memory that would linger in the hearts of those who witnessed it. The incident didn’t just highlight the band’s resilience; it also showcased their love for music that transcended all obstacles. This experience reinforced their reputation as rock legends, proving that it’s not always about the grand spectacle, but about the passion that drives them.

Years later, when the band reflected on that performance, they often cited it as one of the highlights of their career. It reminded them that true artistry shines brighter during challenges. The power outage had turned a potential setback into a beautiful moment of connection, illustrating that music has the power to bring people together, no matter the circumstances. And for the thousands of fans that night, it became a cherished memory—a testament to the spirit of rock and roll that could light up even the darkest of times.