History
JPJ Audio, the merged operation of Jands Production Services and Johnston Audio has a history dating back to 1970 when Jands first began providing sound and lighting equipment and expertise for local and overseas entertainers.
Over the last four decades, JPJ Audio has undertaken some of the most innovative and memorable projects in the fields of sound and lighting. When Elton John first toured Australia in 1971, Jands provided what was then the largest PA system ever assembled in Australia. Throughout the 70s and onwards JPS was the preferred supplier of equipment and staff for nearly every major entertainer that visited the country. We are gradually working through our old records and photographs and will add to this section regularly.
January 6th, 1973
The Great Ngaruawahia Music Festival was held over 3 days. between the 6th and 8th of January 1973. It was the first major music festival held in New Zealand and attracted over 18,000 people. The venue, a farm about 3km north of the town centre, was a a natural amphitheatre and a perfect outdoor rock […]
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January 28th, 1973
This was Status Quo’s first trek to Australia and New Zealand. It would become a regular trip during the 1970s but on this, their first tour, Quo played as support band to the UK glam rockers ‘Slade’. Quo would return to Australia within the year. The support act was Blackfeather. Jands sound system was put […]
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September 4th, 1973
Status Quo’s breakthrough album ‘Piledriver’ was released in 1972 and foreshadowed a heavier, energetic sound. During the 1970s they became one of the UK’s leading rock bands and toured extensively. The band first visited Australia, as support act to Slade, in early 1973. They returned, as headliners, later that year and toured again in 1974, […]
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November 30th, 1973
Gary Glitter first toured Australia in November 1973. Ariel were the support act. Video
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December 30th, 1973
In late December 1973 and early January 1974 Johnny O’Keefe toured Australia with Bill Haley and the Comets, the Coasters, the Drifters and JOK’s young Australian protégé Dennis Knight in what was billed as Australia’s First Rock ‘n’ Roll Revival Show. Tour Dates December 30 1973 – January 13 1974 December 30 – Randwick Racecourse […]
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May 7th, 1974
Suzi Quatro made the first of her many visits to Australia in May 1974. Jands provided sound and lighting for her tour of Australia ann New Zealand. Tour Dates May 7 Hordern Pavilion Sydney (with Stevie Wright) May 9 Festival Hall Brisbane (with Railroad Gin) May 11 Centennial Hall Adelaide (with Band of Light) May […]
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