ROCK MOMENT – Tesla ‘Signs’
When Tesla released their acoustic-driven cover of ‘Signs’ in 1990, they weren’t just reviving a forgotten 1971 hit—they were redefining themselves and helping launch the MTV Unplugged era before it officially existed. Originally written and performed by the Five Man Electrical Band, ‘Signs’ was a protest folk-rock song criticizing judgment, conformity, and the arbitrary rules imposed by authority. Nearly two decades later, Tesla discovered the song fit perfectly with their raw, blue-collar identity.
The band began performing ‘Signs’ during the 1990 Five Man Acoustical Jam tour, a run of shows where Tesla swapped their electric guitars for acoustic instruments. At the time, it was unusual for a hard rock band to go unplugged—this was months before MTV Unplugged became a phenomenon. Tesla’s acoustic sets felt fresh, honest, and unscripted. ‘Signs,’ with its storytelling verses and dynamic, sing-along chorus, quickly became the standout moment each night.
Recorded live in Philadelphia and included on the Five Man Acoustical Jam album, Tesla’s version stayed remarkably true to the spirit of the original while adding a gritty, blues-rock warmth. Jeff Keith’s raspy vocals brought a new emotional weight, and the band’s harmonies elevated the iconic chorus. Their arrangement kept the hand-clap breakdown and group vocal ending, giving it a communal, celebratory feel.
When the cover was released as a single, it became one of Tesla’s biggest hits, peaking high on rock and mainstream charts. The success surprised critics but felt natural to fans who recognized the sincerity behind the performance. ‘Signs’ helped prove Tesla wasn’t just another late-’80s hard rock act—they were skilled musicians with a deep appreciation for songwriting and roots music.
Today, Tesla’s rendition is often considered the definitive version for younger generations, a live-show staple that captures everything people love about the band: authenticity, musicianship, and heart.
