In 1982, the band that opened for Van Halen during the latter part of their "Diver Down" tour was Joe Whiting and The Bandit Band.
Van Halen embarked on their "Diver Down Tour" in 1982 to support their fifth studio album of the same name. As a prominent rock band of the era, their tours often featured up-and-coming or established acts as opening support. Joe Whiting, a seasoned musician known for his powerful vocals, led The Bandit Band, which had the opportunity to join Van Halen on this significant tour.
Joe Whiting and The Bandit Band's Role
- Tour Support: Joe Whiting and The Bandit Band served as the primary opening act for various dates during the "Diver Down" tour, providing initial entertainment for audiences before Van Halen took the stage.
- Exposure: Opening for a band of Van Halen's stature offered significant exposure to Joe Whiting and his band, allowing them to perform in front of large crowds across the country.
- Tour Logistics: The experience involved sharing the road with one of the biggest rock bands, including managing tour itineraries and adapting to the demands of large-scale concert productions.
The opportunity to open for a group like Van Halen was a notable moment for many bands, offering them a platform to showcase their music to a wider audience and gain invaluable touring experience. The "Diver Down" tour itself was a major success, solidifying Van Halen's reputation as a top-tier live act.
