Live Review and Photos: Myglobalmind/Screaming Digital Productions
The Renegades and Juke Box Heroes tour recently made a triumphant stop at The Orion Amphitheater, the Southeast’s premier venue, where John Waite, Foreigner, and Styx came together for a night of unforgettable rock music. The event drew a full-capacity crowd, with fans filling every available parking space and even resorting to parking across the street. The evening, which began with steamy, muggy weather, ultimately cooled down, setting the stage for an exhilarating night of classic hits.
John Waite kicked off the night with a performance that was both emotionally resonant and powerful. With a setlist that included iconic tracks like “Missing You” and “When I See You Smile,” Waite captivated the audience with his distinctive voice and heartfelt delivery. Despite the oppressive heat earlier in the evening, Waite’s set brought a sense of cool, drawing the audience into a nostalgic journey through his storied career.
Following Waite, Foreigner took the stage and immediately ramped up the energy with their signature arena rock sound. The band delivered a powerhouse set filled with their customary jukebox greatest hits, including “Head Games,” “Dirty White Boy,” and “Urgent,” each song driving the crowd into a frenzy. The night reached an emotional peak when the Grissom High School Choir joined the band on stage for a moving rendition of “I Want to Know What Love Is.” For the young choir members, it was a momentous occasion—likely the largest audience they had ever performed for. Frontman Kelly Hansen delivered a show-stopping performance, climbing onto a raised platform by the soundboard, strapped in as he belted out “Juke Box Hero,” all while confetti rained down on the crowd. Despite any criticisms of Foreigner’s current touring lineup, there’s no denying that the band still knows how to deliver a spectacular show.
Styx concluded the evening with a dynamic and unforgettable set, underscoring their iconic rock legacy. As one of rock’s most enduring bands, with a career spanning over five decades, Styx proved that they still have the energy and musicianship to captivate a crowd. Tommy Shaw was as dynamic as ever, while JY’s aka the godfather of Styx guitar work remained as sharp and precise as it has always been. Lawrence Gowan, the band’s keyboardist and vocalist, added a vibrant touch to the show, his colorful jackets and showmanship providing entertainment for long-time fans. The setlist featured timeless classics such as “The Grand Illusion,” “Lady,” and “Miss America,” all delivered with the band’s trademark precision. The highlight of the night was undoubtedly the performance of “Come Sail Away,” which led into a powerful encore featuring “Mr. Roboto” and the iconic “Renegade.”
The Orion Amphitheater proved to be the perfect venue for this celebration of rock history. Despite the humid conditions earlier in the evening, the night cooled down, allowing the performances to truly shine. Huntsville’s audience was enthusiastic and fully engaged, rivaling the energy of the previous night’s show in Orange Beach. As I reflect on the night, I can’t help but ponder how today’s generation of musicians will create timeless rock anthems that last for centuries like these legends have. We all have our opinions on the matter, and there are plenty of factors at play, but one thing is clear—these legacy bands sure know how to write a song. Can the new bloodline carry the torch? I sure hope so!
https://styxworld.com/pages/tour
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