So, which performances stood out the most? Let’s take a look at the 10 best concerts of 2024, from Olivia Rodrigo’s sass-filled set to Missy Elliott’s out-of-this-world tour.
10. Duran Duran: A Spooky Celebration at CFG Bank Arena
Duran Duran didn’t have to return to the road after their hugely successful Future Past tour, but their love for Halloween made them get back onstage in a thrilling, haunted celebration. The British band, known for their iconic New Wave sound, brought the spookiness to life with a special Halloween-themed show at Baltimore’s CFG Bank Arena. With their electrifying tracks like “Planet Earth” and “Notorious” alongside haunting visuals, they proved once again why they’re still one of the best at blending funk, pop, and the macabre. The show culminated in a dramatic, ghoulishly garbed finale at Madison Square Garden, marking their spooky encore.
9. Nicki Minaj: The Rap Queen Returns
After eight long years, Nicki Minaj made her grand return to U.S. stages with the Pink Friday 2 tour. Fans flooded the Capital One Arena in Washington, D.C., to witness her larger-than-life performance, complete with towering video screens, shimmering catwalks, and a sea of pink. From spitting fierce rhymes in “Win Again” to commanding the stage with her signature confidence, Minaj reminded everyone why she’s the reigning queen of rap. Her playful yet powerful stage presence, paired with her timeless hits, reaffirmed that she’s one of the most entertaining live acts in hip-hop.
8. Sting: Master of Sophistication and Storytelling
Sting’s Sting 3.0 tour brought the legendary musician back to his roots with a stripped-down trio setup, alongside longtime guitarist Dominic Miller and drummer Chris Maas. This intimate configuration allowed Sting to dive deep into his Police classics as well as his solo hits. The night was full of charm and raw energy, especially during a raucous version of “So Lonely” and a poignant “If I Ever Lose My Faith in You.” Performing at The Theater at MGM National Harbor in the fall, Sting’s storytelling and smooth, soulful performances reminded us of his enduring brilliance.
7. Billie Eilish: Authenticity Meets Multimedia Magic
Billie Eilish’s Hit Me Hard and Soft tour kicked off in Baltimore’s CFG Bank Arena, and it didn’t disappoint. The immersive multimedia experience, featuring lasers, dark lighting, and a massive circular stage, perfectly complemented her ethereal voice and emotional performances. While the production was grand, it was Billie’s authenticity that shone through. Whether she was whispering a vulnerable “Wildflower” or rocking out during “Bad Guy,” her connection with the crowd was palpable. Eilish proved once again that she’s a force to be reckoned with in the live music scene.
6. Cyndi Lauper: A Colorful Farewell to Touring
Cyndi Lauper’s Girls Just Want to Have Fun Farewell Tour was more than just a goodbye to the road—it was a vibrant celebration of her incredible career. Lauper took fans on a journey through her decades-spanning hits like “Time After Time,” “True Colors,” and “Money Changes Everything.” True to her quirky nature, Lauper injected humor and social activism into her performance, making the farewell show at her 24-date tour a heartwarming farewell. Her originality as both an artist and an advocate for women’s rights was evident every step of the way.
5. The Eagles: Visual Splendor at the Sphere
The Eagles’ residency at the Sphere in Las Vegas was nothing short of magical. Performing amidst stunning visual displays, including eerie imagery during “Hotel California” and expansive cityscapes during “In the City,” the band made full use of the high-tech venue. Their soaring harmonies and timeless classics like “Witchy Woman” and “One of These Nights” were enhanced by the immersive production, giving fans a one-of-a-kind concert experience. With Vince Gill and Don Henley at the helm, this residency was a must-see for classic rock fans.
4. Olivia Rodrigo: The Rise of a Young Rockstar
Olivia Rodrigo’s GUTS World Tour kicked off in February 2024 and quickly became one of the most talked-about tours of the year. Her performance at Capital One Arena this summer was a high-energy spectacle full of raw emotion and teenage rebellion. With hits like “Bad Idea Right?” and “Enough for You,” Rodrigo captivated her young, mostly female audience with her mix of sweetness and fierce sass. Her onstage confidence was evident as she stomped in her Doc Martens and soared through tracks like “Pretty Isn’t Pretty.” It’s clear: Olivia Rodrigo is just getting started.
3. Billy Joel: A Night of Nostalgia and Surprises
Billy Joel’s residency at Madison Square Garden came to an emotional close in July 2024 with a finale that felt like a living tribute to his iconic career. With special guests like Axl Rose joining him for classic covers and his daughters performing onstage with him, the concert had a personal touch that made it unforgettable. His timeless hits, including “Piano Man” and “Uptown Girl,” sounded as fresh as ever, and fans were treated to an unforgettable night of music, nostalgia, and joy.
2. Missy Elliott: A Hip-Hop Queen’s Explosive Return
Missy Elliott’s Out of This World tour kicked off in Vancouver, and it was a triumph from the very first note. After 25 years in the industry, this was Missy’s first-ever headlining tour, and she didn’t hold back. The show was a feast for the eyes and ears, with dazzling lasers, spaceships, neon costumes, and pyrotechnics. Her energy was infectious as she performed hits like “Work It” and “We Run This,” joined by her loyal collaborators Busta Rhymes and Ciara. Elliott’s long-awaited return was nothing short of spectacular.
1. Jeff Lynne’s ELO: A Career-Defining Performance
Jeff Lynne’s Over and Out tour marked the end of his touring career with a bang. At Capital One Arena, the legendary Electric Light Orchestra mastermind dazzled fans with a perfect blend of rock, pop, and classical influences. With a lush three-piece string section and a seven-piece band, Lynne brought to life iconic hits like “Don’t Bring Me Down” and “Mr. Blue Sky,” offering a beautiful, optimistic conclusion to his decades-long journey in music. The night was an epic celebration of his unparalleled legacy and a fitting farewell to his touring career.
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