On August 3rd, 2024, classic rock fans were treated to a night of legendary performances at the Maine Savings Amphitheater, with Foreigner, Styx, and special guest John Waite taking the stage. The open-air venue was packed with enthusiastic fans, all eager to relive the golden era of rock.
John Waite kicked off the evening, showcasing his iconic voice and stage presence. He opened with “Midnight Rendezvous,” a hit from his days with The Babys, setting the tone for a nostalgic journey. Waite’s set included a mix of songs from his varied career, including “Change” (a Spider cover) and the heartfelt ballad “When I See You Smile” from his time with Bad English. He closed his set with an electrifying medley of Led Zeppelin’s “Whole Lotta Love” and Buddy Guy’s “Let Me Love You Baby,” demonstrating his versatility and rock credentials. The crowd responded with enthusiastic applause, clearly appreciative of Waite’s enduring talent and energy.
Styx took the stage next, delivering a high-energy, theatrical performance that showcased their musical prowess and showmanship. The band, consisting of Tommy Shaw on guitar and vocals, Lawrence Gowan on keyboards, James “JY” Young on guitar, Will Evankovich on guitar, Todd Sucherman on drums, and Terry Gowan on bass, opened with “The Grand Illusion.” The intricate harmonies and rich instrumentation immediately captivated the audience, setting the tone for the rest of their set.
Tommy Shaw’s charismatic presence and exceptional guitar skills were evident throughout the night. His vocals on “Too Much Time on My Hands” had the crowd singing along, and his solos were nothing short of electrifying. Lawrence Gowan brought a dynamic energy to the stage, his keyboard skills and theatrical flair shining during “Rockin’ the Paradise” and the ever-popular “Mr. Roboto.” Gowan’s engagement with the audience, including his playful banter and impressive spinning keyboard, added a unique and entertaining element to the performance.
James “JY” Young’s guitar work was a highlight, particularly on “Miss America” where his powerful riffs and commanding stage presence were on full display. Will Evankovich, the newest member, seamlessly fit into the lineup, contributing solid rhythm guitar and harmonies that enriched the band’s sound. Todd Sucherman’s drumming was both precise and powerful, driving the band’s performance with an unwavering beat. Terry Gowan added depth with his bass work, enhancing the band’s rich, layered sound.
The setlist was a well-curated mix of Styx’s greatest hits and newer material, keeping the audience enthralled. Songs like “Lady” and “Lorelei” transported fans back to the band’s early days, while “Crash of the Crown” showcased their ability to create compelling new music. “Blue Collar Man (Long Nights)” had the crowd on their feet, fists pumping in the air, while “The Best of Times” brought a nostalgic and heartfelt moment to the evening.
“Fooling Yourself (The Angry Young Man)” highlighted the band’s intricate musical arrangements and harmonies, a testament to their enduring talent and cohesion. The performance of “Come Sail Away” was a standout moment, with the entire amphitheater joining in for the iconic chorus, creating a powerful and communal experience.
For the encore, Styx returned to the stage with the crowd-favorite “Mr. Roboto,” which had everyone singing along and reveling in the band’s theatrical flair. They closed with “Renegade,” a high-energy finale that left the audience cheering for more. Each member of Styx brought their A-game, delivering a performance that was both nostalgic and fresh, proving that their music continues to resonate with fans old and new.
Foreigner closed the night, bringing their legendary rock sound to the stage. With Kelly Hansen on vocals, the band delivered a powerful performance, despite the absence of founding member Mick Jones. They kicked off with “Double Vision,” immediately energizing the crowd with Hansen’s dynamic stage presence and soaring vocals. The band, consisting of Jeff Pilson on bass, Michael Bluestein on keyboards, Bruce Watson and Luis Maldonado on rhythm guitars, and Chris Frazier on drums, showcased their musical prowess and cohesive chemistry throughout the set.
Following “Double Vision,” they launched into “Head Games,” with its infectious chorus prompting the audience to sing along. “Cold as Ice” was another crowd-pleaser, featuring Bluestein’s impressive keyboard work that added a rich layer to the classic hit. The ballad “Waiting for a Girl Like You” provided a heartfelt moment, with Hansen’s emotive delivery resonating deeply with the audience.
“Dirty White Boy” ramped up the energy again, with Watson and Maldonado trading fiery guitar licks that had fans rocking out. “Feels Like the First Time” brought a wave of nostalgia, as the band expertly recreated the sound that made them a staple of rock radio. Hansen’s powerful voice, combined with Pilson’s solid bass lines and Frazier’s driving beats, kept the momentum high.
A highlight of the evening was “Urgent,” featuring an extended saxophone solo that showcased the band’s versatility and added a unique flavor to the performance. The energy peaked during “Juke Box Hero,” where Hansen’s storytelling and the band’s intense instrumentation created an electrifying atmosphere. A dynamic drum solo by Frazier captivated the crowd, demonstrating his skill and adding a dramatic flair to the set.
For the encore, Foreigner brought a local high school choir on stage for a moving rendition of “I Want to Know What Love Is.” The choir’s harmonies added a beautiful and emotional layer to the song, creating a memorable moment that left many in the audience teary-eyed. The night ended on a high note with “Hot Blooded,” as the crowd danced and sang along, fully immersed in the rock nostalgia. Hansen’s energetic performance, coupled with the band’s tight musicianship, ensured that Foreigner’s set was a fitting and unforgettable conclusion to an incredible night of music.
The concert was a celebration of classic rock, with each act delivering unforgettable performances. The Maine Savings Amphitheater provided an ideal setting, boasting excellent sound quality and an intimate atmosphere that fostered a strong connection between the fans and the artists. The evening was a fantastic reminder of the enduring appeal of these iconic bands and their timeless music.
