Yesterday & Today, a hard rocking party band based out of Hayward, California, were early pioneers of the DIY philosophy, literally creating their own scene by renting auditoriums, promoting their own concerts and booking their opening acts. They eventually created such a large local following that they were noticed by Journey's management, and a record deal with London Records soon followed. The band's self-titled debut album was released in 1976, with the single "Alcohol" selling moderately well on the West Coast. The band's follow-up album also failed to penetrate beyond the West Coast market, due in no small part to the demise of London Records. Following several years without a label, the band trimmed their name down to Y & T and were signed to A & M, where they achieved greater commercial success into the 1980s.
Led by singer/songwriter/lead guitarist, Dave Meniketti, they were just a little ahead of their time, earning the respect of contemporaries like Bon Jovi, Van Halen, Motley Crue and Whitesnake, but seemingly always relegated to opening act status. Much like those bands, they excelled at a raw, in-your-face guitar sound, courtesy of Meniketti, but their music also contained elements of pop melodies and a British glam-rock bent, even though they were all California natives.
Y&T has been a revolving door of sorts for musicians, but the group continues to go strong to this day and still features founding members Dave Meniketti and bassist Phil Kennemore.