21 Best live performances of all time

When it comes to live shows, rap and R&B have produced some of the most electric, emotional and visually stunning performances in music history. From the old-school icons who built the blueprint to modern-day artists pushing boundaries with technology and theatrics, this list celebrates the best to ever do it live. These artists mastered moving the crowd through choreography, vocals, crowd control or full-on stagecraft. Some are known for political statements in the middle of a set. Others make jaws drop with surprise guests, flying platforms or genre-bending arrangements. Dearly beloved, we’re gathered here today to celebrate the best live performances of all time.

Bey’s live shows are an all-out production with stunning visuals, intricate choreography, and moments that will stick with you forever. If you’re into two of music for events in the UK the oldest and most revered forms of popular music then this is your destination of choice. You’ll find details of those here, as well as information on the newest soul supremos out there, from Gregory Porter up to Sharon Jones and the Dap Kings. Whether it’s bouncing around in a mosh pit or going to see big stadium tours, our in depth genre sections help you find the perfect domain for your tastes. Janis Joplin will always be considered one of the most influential musicians in rock.

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And this was the performance that shot her to international fame. She put every piece of herself into this song, thrashing around, throwing her head back, and letting everything out. It’s a real honour to witness this, even through a screen. Vocalist Anthony was on top form, vocally and with his energy and showmanship, and the chemistry between the three musicians is beyond awe-inspiring. Add to that the god-like guitar playing from Frusciante and we’re gone.

No artist has redefined the modern concert experience like Beyoncé. Whether she’s backed by a marching band (Homecoming) or floating above the crowd on a chrome horse (“Renaissance World Tour”), every detail is intentional. Her vocals never miss, even while executing choreography more intense than most athletes’ workouts. Beyoncé’s live shows are the standard — part celebration, part sermon, part Super Bowl.

The whole gig is fantastic but the cover of Dolly Parton’s ‘Jolene’ is next-level. With Jack’s agonised vocals and the huge dynamic shift when both start beating up their instruments,it’s an emotional rollercoaster that we just want to ride again and again. The iconic songs, the singing while dancing, the fireworks, the countless visual spectacles, the silhouette moment, the rain during 'Purple Rain’ – THE RAIN DURING 'PURPLE RAIN’!

We’ve a hugely in depth clubs section, but this area runs down all the events where the machines are brought to life. Want to find out where your favourite bands are playing next? Want to read interviews with the next big thing, or reviews of the latest guitar driven masterpiece? We’ve got more options for the live music enthusiasts than anywhere else, with constantly up to date venue listings and tour information across the UK.

• Paired with the confetti drop, the fireworks, and the crowd singing each word, you can’t help but sit there with goosebumps the whole way through.
• But the 15 below represent a well-rounded blend of impact, consistency, musicality and production.
• Some are known for political statements in the middle of a set.
• And this performance at Coachella reveals what we mean.
• Lizzo is her own soulmate, and that’s unmistakable when you see her live.

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The electronic equivalent of a mosh pit, fiends of metal and the more hardcore side of rock music are catered for in this section. Whether you’re lusting for the punky euphoria of Slaves, screaming to Rammstein’s intense groove or wallowing in the black abyss of Paradise Lost, it’s all here. Pop-Soul Singer Tunde of The Lighthouse Family will be performing live inside the incredible Worcest…

Evanescence’s Amy Lee remembers supporting Metallica in stadiums: “so fun”

With futuristic visuals and arena-level stunts, CB’s concerts play like action movies. His influence on choreography and stage performance is lasting, even among his critics. Every entrance is explosive, every transition is sharp and every encore feels earned. Whether belting the National Anthem or performing “I Will Always Love You” with chilling control, she turned arenas into sanctuaries. Even stripped-down performances — just Whitney and a microphone — could bring audiences to tears.

Jack WhiteLive, White will break out songs from his whole career, including cuts by White Stripes, the Raconteurs and the Dead Weather. Fans still miss Meg White on drums, but the old material sounds amazing fleshed out by a complete band, bassist and all. Doja’s “Scarlet Tour” sealed her as a top-tier performer.

Becky Hill brings her euphoric catalogue of hits to Canterbury on Saturday 8th August, headlining a … Pop-Soul Singer Tunde of The Lighthouse Family will be performing live inside the incredible St Alba… Pop-Soul Singer Tunde of The Lighthouse Family will be performing live inside the incredible Liverpo… Becky Hill brings her euphoric catalogue of hits to Borde Hill Parklands, Haywards Heath, West Susse… King’s reaction here isn’t something that can be properly expressed with words. It’s a transcendent feeling that music gives us where we feel like we’re about to burst in the best way.

His ability to connect with audiences on a personal level, sharing his experiences and emotions, created an atmosphere of authenticity and intimacy. The way he commanded the stage, exuding confidence and grace, was a testament to his incredible talent and hard work. Bowie’s influence on live performance continues to be felt today, inspiring countless artists to explore new artistic possibilities. Few artists can perform for four hours straight and still leave fans wanting more, but Bruce Springsteen does it with ease. His concerts are more than just performances—they’re communal experiences filled with storytelling, passion, and heartland rock anthems that bring generations together.

He used cranes to go out over the crowds, performed elaborate dance routines while hitting every note, used plenty of pyro, changed costumes multiple times, and commanded the crowd effortlessly. The Prodigy have been known for having some of the best live concerts for a while now but their Glasto performance in 1995 was wild. They came on stage in inflatable ball things, ran and jumped around like mad, got the crowd going, had a dancer to keep everyone lively, and used electric guitars for extra oomph. This performance by Queen in 1985 saw the band play an electric setlist full of their most popular tunes in front of 72,000 people. Most performances by Queen were incredible for more reasons than one.

We’ve crammed an abundance of genres in there, meaning whatever your musical niche of choice you’re well served. Metal fans, you’ll be as well served as shoegaze enthusiasts are in your lust for gig tickets, and our news section details all the album reviews, tour rumours, artist interviews you could ever desire. We’ve handpicked some of the best live music events and gigs from across the land to get stuck into – discover new experiences and buy gig tickets for some of the biggest live music gigs about. Michael Jackson’s Dangerous tour put the bar through the roof for elaborate staging in live music.

His microphone technique and dance stamina are hall-of-fame worthy. He blends sensuality with showbiz savvy, giving fans everything from intimate serenades to full-on dance battles on stage. Nobody commands a stage like Beyoncé does, delivering powerhouse vocals while dancing with absolute precision.

The Stones’ ability to connect with audiences through their music and performances has made them a beloved figure in the world of entertainment. Their innovative style and unique blend of musical genres have paved the way for future generations of artists, solidifying their status as cultural icons. The energy and excitement they bring to the stage are unmatched, leaving fans captivated and eager for more. The Stones’ influence on live performance continues to be felt today, inspiring countless musicians to push the boundaries of what is possible on stage. With cinematic visuals, moody aesthetics, and his hypnotic vocals, The Weeknd’s performances feel like a surreal journey. His After Hours Tour set new standards for production and storytelling.