Steven Tyler wears many hats (er...scarves). Aside from being ranked #3 on Hit Parader's list of "Heavy Metal's All-Time Top 100 Vocalists" for his raw, sharp-edged vocals, Tyler also plays a wide range of instruments, including keyboards, harmonica, and various percussion instruments.
Aerosmith enjoyed some success in the 70s, but fell apart due to the fast-paced lifestyle and the friction of spending so much time together - both of which problems were fueled by drug use within the band. Fortunately, the band was able to reunite in the mid-80s, contingent upon Tyler's stint in a strict rehab program. A comment by Steven Tyler: "Sex, drugs, and rock 'n' roll... take out the drugs and you've got more time for the other two."
But the 80s marked a new era for the band. Aside from all attending rehab, the band made a mark on music when they collaborated with Run DMC to remake their hit "Walk This Way". This move introduced a whole new generation to the music of Aerosmith, and as a result, the band became more popular than ever. The success continued though the 90s with multiple hit albums and theatrical music videos.
Aerosmith still tours regularly and is known for their stellar live performances. From wikipedia:
Tyler is also known for his usage of the microphone stand as a significant part of his performances. He almost always uses the microphone stand in concert.
Throughout much of his career, Tyler has also been noted for playing the piano or keyboards onstage, particularly during songs such as "Dream On" and "Darkness". However, he has rarely done this since the 1980s, except during special performances, since the band employs a touring keyboardist, and the piano playing would take away from Tyler's raw performances as frontman. Nevertheless, his piano and keyboard playing continues to be an integral part of the band in the studio, as Tyler will often write songs this way.
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