Before they became known as "The Bad Boys from Boston" or sold more than 150 million albums, Aerosmith was but a humble group of struggling musicians trying to make their way in the world.  

Aerosmith formed in 1970.  Guitarist Joe Perry and bassist Tom Hamilton were already playing together in a group called the Jam Band when they first met singer Steven Tyler.  Drummer Joey Kramer and guitarist Ray Tabano were also brought on board, and they soon began gaining a loyal following around their hometown of Boston, Massachusetts.      

By the time Aerosmith signed with Columbia Records in 1972, Brad Whitford had replaced Tabano on guitar.  In 1973, Aerosmith released their self-titled debut album, and it barely made a dent on the Billboard charts, peaking at No. 166.  The band's first single was "Dream On," which only made it to No. 59 on the charts.  

The lack of mainstream success did little to dampen the band's enthusiasm, and they toured tirelessly over the next year before releasing "Get Your Wings" in 1974.  While the record produced some modest hits, like "Same Old Song and Dance" and "Train Kept A-Rollin'," Aerosmith didn't truly breakthrough until their third album.  

Released in 1975, "Toys in the Attic" became an instant smash hit, giving the band their first Top 10 hit single with "Sweet Emotion."  Aerosmith has been a household name ever since, enjoying a career that's still going strong more than 30 years later.