Rockin’ Out on Rocky Top

by Cassandra Sproles

Before Thompson-Boling Arena opened in 1987, the university played host to big-name acts in other venues on campus. From the final concert of legendary classical pianist Sergei Rachmaninof in 1943 at Alumni Memorial Auditorium to musicians like Elvis, Elton John, James Taylor, John Denver, and Whitney Houston at Stokely Athletic Center, lots of musical memories have been made on Rocky Top.

Share your memories and photos of campus concerts and  performances on social media using #VolMemories or by e-mail at torch@utk.edu.

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5 comments

Danny Wilson March 22, 2016 - 1:29 pm

I regret I missed U2 in Alumni Gym (opening for J Geils Band) while I lived on campus in the early 80s but I did get to see The Police at Stokely Athletic Center.

Joe Fareed March 22, 2016 - 5:20 pm

The Police at Stokely in the early 80s was memorable, especially the party while camping out to buy tickets.

W. Chisholm August 2, 2022 - 12:09 am

I was able to see Janis Joplin warming up in Stokely and later on had a chance to meet James Taylor practicing before his concert. Both were incredibly nice and to time out to talk with us.

Claudia Melear March 22, 2016 - 9:24 pm

Shania Twain

David Corban October 1, 2020 - 5:22 am

Wait, where is Sly and the Family Stone?

Comments are closed.