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When Johnny Came To Town: New Zealand's First Rock Concert

Saturday 13 June 2009

When Johnny Came To Town
50 years ago, April 1959, New Zealand got its first taste of live, international rock and amp; roll, when a show headlined by Gene Vincent and Johnny Cash played at Auckland's Town Hall. Marty Duda looks back at this historic show, talking with performers, journalists and fans that were there. 13 June 2009. (duration: 22′24″)
from (09 Jun 2009)

Marking the 50th Anniversary of live Rock 'n' Roll in NZ.

Johnny Cash in NZ International rock shows are a matter of course in New Zealand. Just this year the country has hosted shows from Coldplay, The Killers, Duffy, Nine Inch Nails and Eric Clapton.

But 50 years ago, New Zealand was getting its first taste of big time rock & roll, when a show headlined by Gene Vincent and Johnny Cash played at Auckland's Town Hall.

Marty Duda looks back at this historic show, talking with performers, journalists and fans that were there.

After April, 1959, the floodgates were open and acts like The Beatles, The Rolling Stones and The Who were among the legendary bands that came to New Zealand. Hear the music and the stories behind the show - When Johnny Came To Town: New Zealand's First Rock Concert.

Repeated at 8:06 PM Friday 19 June 2009

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