DEF LEPPARD has recently unveiled a performance video for their latest single, “Just Like 73,” which was filmed during their summer 2024 stadium tour with JOURNEY. The release of this video coincides with the single’s physical release on August 2, 2024, available in a special color variant exclusively through DEF LEPPARD’s direct-to-consumer store and in black at various retailers.
In an interview on SiriusXM’s “Trunk Nation With Eddie Trunk,” DEF LEPPARD guitarist Phil Collen shed light on the origins and inspiration behind “Just Like 73.” He explained that the track was initiated during the recording sessions for their 2022 album, Diamond Star Halos. The title and theme of the song are a nod to the iconic glam rock era of the early 1970s, referencing Marc Bolan’s T. REX with the phrase “Diamond Star Halos.” Collen reminisced about the impact of that era on him and lead singer Joe Elliott, recalling their formative experiences with artists like David Bowie and DEEP PURPLE, which heavily influenced their musical development.
Collen collaborated with songwriter Dave Bassett on “Just Like 73,” aiming to capture a sound reminiscent of the glam rock period, particularly with a SLADE-inspired slant on the backing vocals. When Elliott heard the demo, he suggested incorporating elements from that era while also blending in new ideas. This approach led to the creation of a song that evokes the nostalgic glam rock vibe while maintaining a fresh sound. The band members, including Vivian Campbell on guitar, Rick Savage on bass, and Rick Allen on drums, all contributed their parts to the track, which Collen feels surpasses some of the material on Diamond Star Halos.
Regarding the future of DEF LEPPARD, Collen hinted that “Just Like 73” is not just a standalone single but a precursor to a new full-length album. He mentioned that the song serves as both a leftover from their previous album and the beginning of their next project. The band is actively writing and recording new material, with a wealth of ideas already in the pipeline. While Collen suggested that a new album might not be released this year, he expressed optimism about its potential release in the next year or early the following year.
The single features a notable collaboration with Tom Morello, the legendary guitarist from RAGE AGAINST THE MACHINE and AUDIOSLAVE. Morello’s contribution includes a blistering solo that adds a distinctive edge to the track. DEF LEPPARD’s lead singer, Joe Elliott, has described the song as a celebration of a significant era in rock history, capturing the essence of a time that has left a lasting mark on their music. Morello himself expressed his enthusiasm for the project, recalling how he played DEF LEPPARD’s “Rock Of Ages” in his college cover band and noting how DEF LEPPARD continues to deliver impactful music.
DEF LEPPARD’s summer 2024 tour with JOURNEY, which began on July 6 in St. Louis, Missouri, and concluded on September 8 in Denver, Colorado, was a major event, featuring 23 cities across North America. The tour saw the band performing in major stadiums in cities like Chicago, Nashville, Boston, Toronto, New York City, Los Angeles, and San Francisco. CHEAP TRICK joined the tour for select dates, and STEVE MILLER BAND was a significant part of the lineup for most shows. The tour, promoted by AEG Entertainment, also offered VIP packages that included premium seats, personal photos with the band, and exclusive merchandise.
DEF LEPPARD’s recent releases include their 12th studio album, Diamond Star Halos (2022), and a subsequent album, Drastic Symphonies (2023), which featured reimagined versions of their greatest hits with London’s Royal Philharmonic Orchestra. Drastic Symphonies achieved notable success, spending 15 weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard Current Classical chart, showcasing the band’s enduring appeal and versatility in blending rock with classical elements.
