California Jam II, held on March 18, 1978, at the Ontario Motor Speedway in Ontario, California, was a landmark event in the history of rock music festivals. Produced by Leonard Stogel, Sandy Feldman, and Don Branker, this festival attracted over 350,000 attendees, making it one of the largest gatherings of its kind at the time. As a sequel to the original California Jam of 1974, Cal Jam II continued the tradition of bringing together some of the biggest
names in rock music, leaving a lasting impact on the festival scene.
The Festival's Origins and Organization
California Jam II was organized by Leonard Stogel, Sandy Feldman, and Don Branker, who were instrumental in creating a festival that would draw massive crowds. The event was promoted by Wolf & Rissmiller Concerts, ensuring that it reached a wide audience. The Ontario Motor Speedway provided a vast venue capable of accommodating the enormous number of attendees, which exceeded 350,000 people. This scale of attendance highlighted the growing popularity of rock music festivals during the 1970s.
The festival was a sequel to the original California Jam held in 1974, which had set a precedent for large-scale rock events. The success of the first California Jam paved the way for Cal Jam II, demonstrating the viability of such festivals and their ability to attract top-tier musical talent. The organizers capitalized on this momentum, creating an event that would be remembered for its size and the quality of its performances.
Musical Acts and Performances
California Jam II featured an impressive lineup of musical acts, including Santana and Heart, among others. These performances were central to the festival's appeal, drawing fans from across the country to witness their favorite bands live. The inclusion of popular rock and acid rock genres ensured that the festival catered to a wide range of musical tastes, further boosting its popularity.
The festival's performances were not only a showcase of musical talent but also a reflection of the era's cultural trends. The choice of bands and the style of music played at Cal Jam II mirrored the evolving landscape of rock music in the late 1970s. This diversity in musical acts helped solidify the festival's reputation as a significant cultural event.
Broadcast and Legacy
The impact of California Jam II extended beyond the live performances. A television special featuring highlights of the festival was broadcast on the American Broadcasting Company network, allowing those who could not attend to experience the event. Additionally, CBS Records released a two-LP soundtrack album, capturing the essence of the festival for posterity.
Local radio stations KMET & KLOS aired live simulcasts of the show, although many attendees listened to the concert on the radio due to the poor quality of the sound system. Despite these challenges, the festival's legacy endured, influencing future rock festivals and cementing its place in music history. California Jam II remains a testament to the power of live music and the communal experience it fosters.
