Def Leppard, Journey & Steve Miller Band – Hersheypark Stadium – Hershey, PA – 7/25/2024
Review & Photos by Lori Schneider (IG: @LoriSchneiderPhotography)
Fans of all ages packed Hersheypark Stadium for a three-act headline bill which included famed bands Steve Miller Band, Journey & Def Leppard. All of these bands are renowned in their own rite. Journey was celebrating their 50th anniversary, and fans of all ages present showed that all of these three bands have transcended multiple generations of rock music lovers.
The Steve Miller Band was up first on the bill. An American rock band formed in 1966 in San Francisco, California, they are best known for a string of classic hit singles in the 1970s, which include “Abracadabra”, “The Joker,” “Take the Money and Run,” “Rock’n Me,” “Fly Like an Eagle,” and “Jet Airliner.” The band’s style incorporates elements of rock, blues, and psychedelic music.
Steve Miller, the band’s frontman, is a singer, guitarist, and songwriter who has been the consistent member throughout the band’s history. The band’s sound is characterized by Miller’s distinctive vocals and guitar playing, combined with catchy melodies and a blend of rock and blues influences. The 13-song set was amazing and provided the nostalgic appeal of their timeless songs.
Journey, an American rock band formed in San Francisco in 1973, achieved significant success on the late 1970s and early 1980s with a series of hit songs and albums. With several lineup changes over the years, Neal Schon has been the only constant member. In 2007, Journey found Filipino singer Arnel Pineda whose vocal style closely resembled Steve Perry’s (who departed the band in the late 1990s). Pineda helped the band maintain their classic sound and find renewed success.
Journey continues to tour extensively, drawing large crowds and enthusiastic fans. Their 18-song set included hits “Only the Young”, “Be Good to Yourself”, “Faithfully”, “Open Arms”, “Separate Ways”, “Don’t Stop Believin'”, “Any Way You Want It” and many more. Journey’s music has had a lasting impact on rock music and pop culture.
Last, but definitely not least, was Def Leppard, a British rock band formed in 1977 in Sheffield, England. Known for their melodic hard rock sound they have enjoyed significant commercial success, particularly in the 1980s.
Def Leppard’s music blends hard rock with catchy pop hooks, creating a sound that has appealed to a wide audience. Their ability to evolve with the times while maintaining their signature style has helped them remain relevant over the decades. Renowned for their high-energy live performances, featuring elaborate stage setups and a mix of their classic hits and newer material, they continue to tour extensively, often co-headlining with other major rock acts.
Def Leppard’s influence on the rock genre has been significant, with their albums and songs continuing to inspire new generations of musicians. Their innovative production techniques, especially on albums like “Hysteria,” have been highly influential. Their 18-song setlist opened with “Rock! Rock! (Till You Drop” and included “Foolin'”, “Love Bites”, “Two Steps Behind”, “Bringin’ On the Heartbreak”, “Photograph”, “Hysteria”, “Pour Some Sugar on Me” and many more.
If you missed this date, be sure to check out remaining tour dates. This show should not be missed!
