43 Years Ago DEF LEPPARD Sign Their First Recording Contract
Def Leppard signed their first major recording contract with Phonogram in Dronfield, England on this day in 1979.
The band were signed to the label by 23 year old A&R man Dave Bates who had seen the band play two shows in July.
The Retford show on 26th July and again in Middlesbrough on the 27th.
As Rick Allen was too young to sign himself the other band members signed the contract along with Rick's father Geoff at their family home in Green Lane, Dronfield.
Read a news article below and the story of this event as told by the band in the 1987 'Animal Instinct' biography book.
Visit the Tour News section. For more news on future tour plans.
Visit the Album News section for more news on new music (based on band member quotes).
Read the full 'Recording Contract' signing story in the Lep History section.
This section includes all major historical events and releases.
Def Leppard / Latest Release
- Kick - (Digital Single)
- Diamond Star Halos - (Album - May 2022)
Def Leppard / Latest Tour
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- Def Leppard - Retford 1979 Show Page
- Def Leppard - Early Years Tour 1979
- Previous News - 5th August 2022
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