Formed in Birmingham, England, in 1970, Electric Light Orchestra (ELO) released their eponymous debut album in 1971, and they produced hits such as “Mr. Blue Sky,” “Evil Woman,” “Telephone Line,” and “Don’t Bring Me Down.” What does this have to do with lighting history? Well, it’s right in the name, of course. Right?
The band took its name because they were combining traditional electric rock instruments, along with strings and orchestral instrumentation.
In the U.K. throughout the 1960s, “Light Orchestras” were smaller groups performing orchestral pieces centered around symphonies, concertos, operas, and more. “Light Music” groups were often dubbed “easy listening” music.
So, while many have assumed ELO’s name was due to their blinding light show and their stage lighting theatrics, it was not related to lighting at all. Still, it’s a fun part of our radiant history.
Photo courtesy of The Second Disc.
