The UMaine Stage: 20 Legendary Bands That Played at the University of Maine

When discussing iconic music venues in the state of Maine, two typically come to mind. The first is the massive outdoor venue in Bangor, the Maine Savings Pavilion. The other being the Cross Insurance Arena in Portland. Both venues host a wealth of concerts, plus many other events.

While these two facilities receive a lot of attention, there’s another venue in the state that certainly deserves it, considering its rich rock history. In fact, it’s probably best described as a campus, not just a venue, because there are numerous locations to consider. Of course, I’m talking about Maine’s flagship university, UMaine at Orono.

College Campuses are a Perfect Setting for Rock

You can’t discuss the history of rock 'n' roll without acknowledging the significant role that college campuses have played. They’re a breeding ground for fans eager to spend the money they don’t have on rock shows, albums, and merch.

UMaine at Orono is a great example of this. The campus has a rich history with shows and venues, including years of the popular outdoor festival, Bumstock. Heck, even my band back in the day played a few sets at this legendary event, and it was incredible. UMaine has also had several performing arts centers that bands have utilized over the years, making it an attractive place to perform.

Rock Bands That Have Played at the University of Maine

Believe me when I say we’re talking about truly legendary acts. Johnny Cash, Chuck Berry, The Byrds, Blue Oyster Cult, Simon & Garfunkel, and Phish are just a few of the names that have performed on UMaine’s campus. These are some of the most influential rock bands ever. That’s quite a legacy for UMaine.

READ MORE: The Augusta Civic Center's Rock Concert History is Impressive

How about a closer look at some of the biggest acts that have passed through UMaine at Orono?