With their label ready to drop them after a so-so first album, Aerosmith clung on, dreamed on, and recorded a second that gave them lift-off: Get Your Wings ...

Several months after the release of its sophomore record, “Get Your Wings,” Aerosmith played to an estimated crowd of 15,000 on Aug. 18, 1974, at Westboro Speedway on Route 9.

Toys in the Attic”—was released 50 years ago this month, the LP jumped to No. 11, and by August had sold a half-million copies. The record had a stronger sonic punch and was more cohesive and ...