A nostalgic look back at musicians in Ipswich over the years

Global icons have hit the stage for star-studded shows, leaving audiences amazed at the sight of their favourite musicians. 

We have taken a look back at some of the biggest acts that have performed in the Suffolk town over the years.

Were you at the Rolling Stones gig in the 1960s? (Image: Newsquest)

Rolling Stones 

One of the biggest bands ever to come out of the UK made their way to Ipswich in the 1960s. 

Performing at what is now the Regent Theatre, the crowd went wild for Mick Jagger and the Rolling Stones in October 1964. 

Members of the audience could be seen joining the band up on stage to escape the packed stalls below. 

The band meet fans as part of their gig at the Gaumont (Image: Newsquest)

Led Zeppelin playing in Ipswich in November 1971, days after the release of their fourth album (Image: Newsquest)

Led Zeppelin 

Fast forward to the 1970s, and Led Zeppelin was the next big name to head to Ipswich. 

St Matthew's Baths Hall rocked out to the influential band of the era, just days after the release of their fourth album in November 1971.

Crowds for the first ever gig at Portman Road in Ipswich (Image: Newsquest)

Tina Turner 

As one of the most popular decades in the history of Britain broke out, Portman Road stadium made history.

The home of Ipswich Town hosted their first rock show, welcoming the legendary Tina Turner - who died earlier this year - to Suffolk.

A packed stadium was treated to a 19 song set list packed with hits like Proud Mary, What's Love Got To Do With It, The Best and Let's Stay Together.  

Tina Turner amazed audiences in Ipswich in 1990 (Image: Newsquest)

The newspaper competition led Status Quo to Ipswich (Image: Newsquest)

Status Quo

A newspaper competition led to Status Quo performing in Ipswich in 1999. 

The Railway pub in Foxhall Road entered a competition run by The Sun, and were one of the lucky few to be picked for a gig. 

Status Quo played their greatest hits, as well as songs from their latest album, during their show at the venue.

Elton John performed his first gig in Ipswich in 2004 (Image: Newsquest)

Elton John

Rocketman Elton headed to Portman Road for the first time in the summer of 2004. 

The stadium was transformed for the performer as he played a 25-song set.