1950s–1960s: Early Beginnings

Era Overview: In the post-World War II era, Tempe was a small college town with a burgeoning culture influenced by Arizona State University (ASU). This period marked the foundation of what would later become a thriving music scene.

Musical Influences: Country, Western swing, and rockabilly were dominant, with the influence of regional sounds from Texas and California. The music of artists like Elvis Presley, Hank Williams, and Buddy Holly resonated with local audiences, blending traditional and modern styles.

Community and Culture: Local dances and community events were a common way for residents to gather and enjoy live music. High school bands and amateur groups often played covers of popular songs, nurturing a culture of musical appreciation.

Key Venues: Small bars, community halls, and clubs hosted live performances. While the infrastructure for a large-scale music scene wasn’t yet in place, these intimate settings provided a platform for budding artists to connect with audiences.

Legacy: This era laid the groundwork for the growth of a more structured music scene in Tempe. The appreciation for live music and dance helped foster a community spirit that would influence the city’s musical trajectory in the coming decades.

1970s: Growth of Rock and Local Bands

Era Overview: The 1970s marked a pivotal decade for Tempe's music scene as it began to mature and gain its unique identity. The city's proximity to Phoenix and the expansion of Arizona State University brought in a mix of cultural influences that enriched the local music landscape.

Musical Influences: Psychedelic rock, folk, and country rock dominated the scene. Artists like The Eagles and Fleetwood Mac influenced local musicians, who incorporated harmonies and storytelling into their music.

Community and Culture: With a growing student population at ASU, live music became a central part of Tempe's social life. Bands often performed at campus events, local bars, and outdoor festivals. The Tempe community embraced a laid-back, experimental vibe that encouraged musical creativity.

Key Artists: While the scene was still primarily local, several bands gained regional attention. Notable acts included Goose Creek Symphony, which blended folk and rock influences, and The Beans, a progressive rock band that would later evolve into Barnstorm. These groups helped establish Tempe as a regional music hub.

Key Venues: The development of venues like Long Wong’s and other bars on Mill Avenue provided critical platforms for live performances. These venues became incubators for emerging talent and offered audiences intimate, memorable music experiences.

Legacy: The 1970s laid the foundation for Tempe's rise as a music hub in the 1980s and 1990s. The blend of folk, rock, and experimental sounds created a fertile ground for the "Tempe Sound" that would soon capture national attention.

1980s: The Rise of Alternative and College Rock

Era Overview: The 1980s marked a transformative period when Tempe became a hotspot for college and alternative rock.

Musical Influences: Punk, new wave, and alternative rock dominated, with influences from R.E.M., The Clash, and U2.

Key Artists: Early versions of The Gin Blossoms began performing around this time, shaping the "Tempe Sound."

Key Venues: Long Wong’s became a central hub, hosting local bands and fostering an intimate music community.

1990s: The Golden Era of the Tempe Sound

Era Overview: Tempe achieved national recognition during the 1990s as the "Tempe Sound" emerged, characterized by jangly guitars, introspective lyrics, and melodic rock.

Musical Influences: Influences included 1970s rock, Americana, and alternative rock.

Key Artists:

• The Gin Blossoms: Their breakthrough album New Miserable Experience (1992) put Tempe on the map.
• The Refreshments: Known for hits like Banditos and the theme song for King of the Hill.
• Dead Hot Workshop and The Pistoleros: Contributed significantly to the local scene.

Key Venues: Mill Avenue's vibrant bar and music scene thrived, with Long Wong’s as the epicenter.

2000s: Decline and Transition

Era Overview: The early 2000s saw a decline in Tempe's prominence as a music hub due to urban redevelopment and the closure of iconic venues.

Musical Influences: Indie rock and electronic music gained popularity.

Challenges: Rising rents and gentrification led to the closure of Long Wong’s in 2004, symbolizing the end of an era.

Key Artists: Some artists from the 1990s remained active, but new acts struggled to find the same level of exposure.

2010s: Revival and Diversification

Era Overview: The music scene diversified, with genres like hip-hop, EDM, and folk finding an audience alongside rock.

Musical Influences: The influence of platforms like YouTube and social media allowed artists to gain exposure without relying on local venues.

Key Venues: Venues like Marquee Theatre and Yucca Tap Room became focal points for live music.

Key Artists: Emerging artists like Jared & The Mill and local hip-hop acts began to gain traction.

2020s: Modern Scene

Era Overview: Tempe continues to be a vibrant music community, supported by festivals, live venues, and local radio.

Key Trends:

• Support for local artists through events like Innings Festival and other city-sponsored activities.
• A resurgence in smaller, intimate venues offering live performances.
• Diverse genres coexisting, from indie rock to Latin music and beyond.

Key Venues: Marquee Theatre, Yucca Tap Room, and The Rebel Lounge (nearby in Phoenix).

Key Artists: Contemporary acts reflect the diversity of the scene, with an emphasis on independent and experimental music.