When it comes to Rock music legends there are far too many in our perception. Some are in the Hall of Fame, some are not. We think of a few more highly then others just because we like their music more. However, sometimes we have to agree on some, because their talent, longevity and excellence is just simply undeniable. So to have two legends rock team up for a tour together is close to an unimaginable opportunity to experience the best of what the world of rock music can offer to us. Chart topping star Bryan Adams this summer teamed up with punk rock legend Billy Idol to deliver a one-two punch of epic proportions. Bryan is touring in support of his latest release Shine A Light, while Billy is there to provide fireworks with his electric performance. On a splendid summer night in Holmdel, New Jersey both artists saw a sellout crowd.
First one up was Billy Idol. Loud ovations when Billy stepped on stage were followed with sing-alongs to Idols early solo hit song Dancing With Myself. He followed with Flesh For Fantasy and The Doors cover of LA Woman. The energy was unbelievable.
From there things settled down a bit. Songs like Eyes Without A Face and Ghost in My Guitar were mixed in with quite a few Steve Stevens guitar solos, some spanning a good five minutes. After one last solo came the blast everyone were waiting for. Stage screen lit up with flames and with Billy Idol’s name displayed in the middle of all that, creating a perfect visual. Billy let out the Rebel Yell. The place literally went nuts. There was not a single fan who did not know the lyrics to this classic. But that was not the end. For an encore Billy played another mega hit – White Wedding.
At the end of the show, Billy took his time to thank every one of his band members for their contributions, and thank everyone in the audience for their support. It was pleasant to watch how much Billy respects his band and his fans. Mark of a true legend!
Bryan Adams was next. His set list contained one hit song after another, basically a Greatest Hits compilation and everyone loved that. Though Bryan is supporting his latest album Shine A Light which was released on March 1st of 2019, tonight he played only the title song from it.
The performance was opened with his hit song Somebody from Reckless, which was released back in 1984. Reckless also was the most represented album in his set, including Kids Wanna Rock, Heaven, Run to You, Summer of ’69 and It’s Only Love.
The show wasn’t only about Bryan. In the middle of the set Billy Idol was asked to join him for a cover of a Eddie Cochran song C’mon Everybody. Two rock legends sharing the stage and singing another rock’n’roll legends song … somebody pinch me. It was a dream for all rock music fans! We can only hope that there will be an official video made with their performance so we will be able to relive this for times to come. It was loud, it was fun and it was amazing.
For many, Bryans performance was about his ballads. (Everything I Do) I Do It For You was met with ecstatic ovations. The song felt not only as a perfect step back from all the rock’n’roll ruckus, but felt as a perfect fit for a night sky lit by the moon and stars (it is open air venue in Holmdel). To finish up the show Bryan also chose a ballad. It was his collaboration with Sting and Rod Steward called All For Love.
This night was proof that rock music is alive and will live forever.
The two legends will be on tour for another month so if you are in the area where they will play, don’t miss the opportunity of a lifetime to see Billy and Bryan perform together.
PHOTO GALLERY
Photos by Andris Jansons
