In an exciting development for rock music enthusiasts, the iconic Boston-based band Extreme is set to ignite the stage at the upcoming Bandland 2024 festival in Bengaluru. The band has confirmed that they will indeed perform their classic acoustic ballad, “More Than Words,” much to the anticipation of their fans in India. This announcement comes from none other than the band’s renowned lead guitarist Nuno Bettencourt, who has dispelled any doubts about the inclusion of the song in their setlist, which has a fascinating history both loved and contentious for the band.
“More Than Words,” a track from Extreme’s second album, “Pornograffitti,” released in 1990, catapulted the band into international stardom, reaching number one on the charts. Vocalist Gary Cherone and Bettencourt penned the track, which, despite initial resistance from their record label, became a defining moment in their career. Interestingly, while the song brought them widespread fame, it equally cast a shadow, as the band became overwhelmingly identified by this one track. This notoriety led to some discontent among band members, as recounted by Cherone, noting an encounter with Aerosmith’s Steven Tyler during a tour in Poland where Tyler famously urged them to play the song, writing “play the (expletive) song!” on their dressing room door.
For Bettencourt, however, “More Than Words” remains a proud creation. Speaking from Temecula, California, he emphasized that the band made the song famous, not the other way around. “Rock fans know who we are,” he stated, “It’s only the people that aren’t Extreme fans, maybe, who know us for ‘More Than Words’.” Continuing with confidence, Bettencourt assured there is no resentment towards the track, maintaining a sanguine perspective on the song’s legacy.
As the band prepares to grace the Bandland stage, Bettencourt hinted at a veiled commitment to playing their beloved hit, stating with a smile, “Of course, we will play it.” He downplays the mystique around the song’s creation, describing the process in simple terms.
. “Every song is different,” he notes, highlighting the organic evolution of music and how the interplay of lyrics and melody unfolds naturally.
Beyond his work with Extreme, Bettencourt’s career is replete with diverse musical ventures. He released a solo album titled “Schizophonic” and collaborated with high-profile artists like Janet Jackson, Toni Braxton, and Rihanna, showcasing his versatility in the music industry. While Bettencourt finds joy in these projects, he clarifies that his passion for being part of a band remains paramount.
The veteran guitarist also relishes composing for films, having contributed to soundtracks such as “Smart People.” It is an artistic avenue he finds gratifying, enjoying the synergy between visuals and music where composers support the narrative rather than overshadow it.
Being part of a band, according to Bettencourt, involves its fair share of challenges similar to a married relationship but magnified as it involves several members. Yet, he claims it’s these dynamics that define a band, likening it to a familial structure with its inevitable dysfunction.
Even with the inherent ups and downs of band life, Bettencourt acknowledges a personal struggle with the demands of touring. Although performing live remains exhilarating, the rigors of constant travel take a toll, especially after nearly four decades on the road.
This upcoming performance in Bengaluru marks a significant event for Extreme, following their 2019 appearance at the ShiRock Festival in Manipur. Bettencourt expressed the band’s excitement to perform in a major Indian city, inviting fans to expect an electrifying rock experience.
Extreme will perform at Bandland 2024, presented by BookMyShow Live, set to take place on November 23 and 24 at the NICE Grounds, BIEC, Bengaluru, promising an unmissable event for rock aficionados.
