Formed in 1973 as a heavy metal band called Orange, Cold Chisel settled on their name and best-known line up in 1975. The song that has not only become synonymous with the Chisels but has also become something of an unofficial anthem for expat Australians, Khe Sanh, was recorded and released as a single in May 1978. Banned for its suggestive lyrics, it still went to number 4 in Adelaide and number 43 nationally without any radio airplay.

On 12 December 1983, Cold Chisel played their last concert as part of their "The Last Stand" tour, which was recorded and released as a film. Since then, they have reformed a few times for "one-off" concert tours and an album.

By the mid-90's, the Chisels had become the first Australian band to have sold more albums after their split than during their active years. As well, they received a peer tribute previously only afforded AC/DC and Slim Dusty - an album full of Cold Chisel hits performed by some of Australia's best-known performers.