Since their Boston-based formation in 1970 (we have a pic of their very first show, by the way), Aerosmith has given fans quite the eclectic array of sounds.

Their original sound was rooted in blues-based hard rock, but they also managed to incorporate elements of pop rock, heavy metal, glam metal, and even ‘80s hip-hop over the last 55-plus years.

We say “elements of” those subgenres because they never stuck to one genre strictly enough to be put into, say, the glam metal or heavy metal scenes. They’ve always remained pretty singular, so their ability to stay out of boxes ended up inspiring a ton of artists that sound nothing like one another. 

Today, we’re here for that original sound. Or rather, the original look of that original sound. Their time in the early to mid ‘70s was as rockstar as it gets, so here are some snapshots of the epicness that was no doubt their hungriest years.