The summer of 2024 kicked off with a bang in St. Louis as rock titans Def Leppard and Journey launched their highly anticipated co-headlining North American tour at Busch Stadium on July 6th. With the iconic sounds of Cheap Trick amplifying the excitement as the opening act, the night promised, and delivered, a nostalgic trip through rock history, showcasing a blend of timeless hits, deep cuts, and a revitalized stage presence. The packed stadium pulsed with energy as fans witnessed a spectacular display of rock ‘n’ roll prowess, marking a triumphant return for both headliners.
Def Leppard’s performance was a masterclass in arena rock, drawing heavily from their multi-platinum albums Pyromania and Hysteria, much to the delight of the roaring crowd. Their setlist was a carefully curated mix of fan favorites and surprising additions, including the reintroduction of “Rock! Rock! (Till You Drop),” a track absent from their live shows since 2015, and the rarely performed “Comin’ Under Fire,” marking only its second live appearance. The band’s energy was infectious, demonstrating their enduring appeal and their commitment to delivering a high-octane performance.
Journey, no strangers to the grand stage, followed with a set that resonated with the same electrifying energy. They delivered a powerful performance of their iconic hits, including anthems like “Only the Young,” “Faithfully,” “Wheel in the Sky,” and the crowd-uniting finale, “Don’t Stop Believin’.” Adding a touch of the unexpected, they opened with “Faith in the Heartland,” a deeper cut from their Generations album, a testament to their vast catalog and their willingness to explore beyond the well-trodden path.
Cheap Trick, the evening’s opening act, set the stage ablaze with their own brand of infectious rock energy. Their hour-long set was a whirlwind of hits, featuring classics like “Dream Police,” “If You Want My Love,” “The Flame,” “Surrender,” and “I Want You to Want Me,” proving that their power to captivate audiences remains undiminished.
Def Leppard’s Reimagined Stage Show: A Testament to Evolution
Def Leppard’s return to the touring circuit in 2024 follows a massively successful stadium tour with Motley Crue in 2022 and 2023, spanning over 80 shows worldwide. Their current tour, however, promises a fresh experience for fans. Armed with their new single, “Just Like ’73,” which they debuted at the St. Louis show, the band has completely overhauled their stage production. Guitarist Phil Collen, in a recent interview, emphasized the dramatic shift in their visual presentation, promising a high-energy spectacle with a brand-new screen production, replacing the one they’ve used for the past 12 years. This commitment to innovation and evolution underscores their dedication to providing fans with a unique and unforgettable concert experience.
Journey’s Resilience: Music as the Unifying Force
Journey, too, has been consistently touring, with over three dozen shows under their belt in 2024 as part of their ongoing Freedom tour, named after their 2022 album of the same name. Despite highly publicized internal conflicts between Neal Schon and Jonathan Cain, the band has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to their music and their fans. Schon, in a recent interview, highlighted the band’s decision to prioritize their music above all else, recognizing the importance of their shared legacy and the power of their music to transcend personal differences. This dedication to their art and their fans allows them to deliver powerful performances despite internal challenges.
Cheap Trick’s Enduring Legacy: A Celebration of Rock ‘n’ Roll
Cheap Trick’s presence on the tour adds another layer of rock royalty to an already impressive lineup. Their inclusion highlights the enduring appeal of classic rock and the band’s continued relevance in the contemporary music scene. As they continue to support select dates on the Def Leppard and Journey tour, alongside the Steve Miller Band, filling in for Heart due to Ann Wilson’s health concerns, Cheap Trick continues to solidify their status as rock ‘n’ roll legends.
A Night to Remember: The Power of Live Music
The Def Leppard and Journey co-headlining tour is more than just a concert; it’s a celebration of rock ‘n’ roll’s enduring power. It’s a testament to the timeless appeal of these iconic bands and their ability to connect with audiences across generations. With each band bringing their unique energy and musical legacy to the stage, the tour promises an unforgettable experience for rock fans across North America.
Def Leppard’s St. Louis Setlist: A Mix of Classics and Rarities
Def Leppard’s St. Louis setlist was a carefully crafted journey through their extensive catalog. The inclusion of “Rock! Rock! (Till You Drop)” and “Comin’ Under Fire” provided a rare treat for longtime fans, while staples like “Pour Some Sugar on Me” and “Hysteria” ensured a sing-along experience for the entire stadium. The setlist reflected the band’s commitment to both their history and their present, creating a dynamic and engaging performance.
- “Rock! Rock! (Till You Drop)”
- “Rocket”
- “Foolin'”
- “Armageddon It”
- “Animal”
- “Love Bites”
- “Just Like ’73”
- “Comin’ Under Fire”
- “Too Late for Love”
- “Die Hard the Hunter”
- “Two Steps Behind”
- “This Guitar”
- “Bringing’ on the Heartbreak”
- “Switch 625”
- “Rock of Ages”
- “Photograph”
- “Hysteria”
- “Pour Some Sugar on Me”
Journey’s St. Louis Setlist: A Symphony of Hits
Journey’s setlist was a testament to their enduring popularity, featuring a string of instantly recognizable hits that have become ingrained in the fabric of rock music. From the opening notes of “Faith in the Heartland” to the final chords of “Don’t Stop Believin’,” the band delivered a powerful and emotive performance, showcasing their musical prowess and their ability to connect with audiences on a deeply personal level.
- “Faith in the Heartland”
- “Only the Young”
- “Stone in Love”
- “Keep on Runnin'”
- “Faithfully”
- “Escape”
- “Lovin’, Touchin’, Squeezin'”
- Piano solo (Jonathan Cain)
- “Open Arms”
- “Chain Reaction”
- Guitar solo (Neal Schon)
- “Wheel in the Sky”
- “Lights”
- “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)”
- “Be Good to Yourself”
- “Any Way You Want It”
- “Don’t Stop Believin'”
Cheap Trick’s St. Louis Setlist: A Blast from the Past
Cheap Trick’s opening set was a high-energy blast from the past, reminding everyone of their undeniable influence on rock music. Their setlist was a collection of their most beloved hits, igniting the crowd and setting the perfect tone for the evening’s main acts. Their performance was a reminder of the enduring power of classic rock and roll.
- “Hello There”
- “Dream Police”
- “If You Want My Love”
- “She’s Tight”
- “Ain’t That a Shame”
- “Boys & Girls & Rock N Roll”
- “Downed”
- Bass solo
- “I Know What I Want”
- “The Flame”
- “I Want You to Want Me”
- “Surrender”
- “Clock Strikes Ten”
- “Goodnight”
The Future of Rock: A Legacy Continues
The Def Leppard and Journey co-headlining tour signifies more than just a reunion of rock legends; it represents the ongoing evolution and enduring power of the genre. With their revitalized stage shows, carefully curated setlists, and unwavering dedication to their fans, these bands are ensuring that the legacy of rock ‘n’ roll continues to thrive, inspiring new generations of musicians and music lovers alike.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions about the Def Leppard and Journey Tour
Q: Who are the supporting acts for the Def Leppard and Journey tour?
- A: Cheap Trick and the Steve Miller Band are providing support on select dates, filling in for Heart.
Q: Why isn’t Heart touring with Def Leppard and Journey as originally planned?
- A: Heart postponed their 2024 North American tour dates due to Ann Wilson needing to undergo preventative chemotherapy.
Q: What can I expect from Def Leppard’s stage show?
- A: Def Leppard has promised a brand-new, high-energy stage show, significantly different from their previous productions.
Q: How has Journey managed to continue touring despite internal conflicts?
- A: The band members have stated their commitment to prioritizing the music and their fans, putting aside internal differences for the sake of the tour.
Q: Where can I find more information about the tour, including dates and ticket availability?
- A: Please check the official websites of Def Leppard and Journey for the most up-to-date tour information. We encourage you to share any additional questions you might have in the comments below!
