Legendary rock band Aerosmith made an electrifying start to their “Peace Out” farewell tour at the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia. The iconic group, consisting of Steven Tyler, Joe Perry, Tom Hamilton, and Brad Whitford, embarked on this epic journey, bringing their explosive energy and a wave of nostalgia to their fans. With over 50 decades of chart-topping hits, Aerosmith promised a tour to remember.
Before the curtain rose, a large screen descended over the triangular stage, treating fans to a retrospective of the band’s history. Clips included interviews with music icons like Run DMC, Slash, and Mark Wahlberg, as well as memorable moments from appearances on “Wayne’s World” and “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon.”
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The charismatic frontman, Steven Tyler, at 75 years old, took the stage with his signature flamboyant style, donning a long, silver-sequined jacket, a sleeveless shirt, a black-brimmed hat, and distinctive black and red pants adorned with eyes on the rear. Tyler’s performance was a testament to his enduring stage presence as he danced across the stage with his microphone stand in hand.
The band unleashed an impressive setlist, performing a continuous string of hits that had the audience on their feet. Classics like “Sweet Emotion,” “Livin’ on the Edge,” “Cryin’,” and “I Don’t Wanna Miss a Thing” filled the arena with rock and roll euphoria, culminating in “Toys in the Attic” as giant balloons descended from the ceiling, adding a festive touch to the grand spectacle.
Amid their musical journey, the Rock & Roll Hall of Famers shared anecdotes from their illustrious career. Joe Perry spoke about the significance of one of his guitars, which had once belonged to the late Jeff Beck, keeping the memory of the guitar legend alive. Steven Tyler recounted the story behind their iconic song “Walk This Way,” illustrating how the magic of creation can strike in unexpected moments.
Returning for an encore, Tyler changed into a silky shirt and added a Hawaiian lei as he addressed the audience. He touched on the Maui wildfires before delivering a moving rendition of “Dream On” from a white baby grand piano at the edge of the stage. The grand finale featured an explosive performance of “Walk This Way” with a confetti shower, leaving the crowd in awe.
As the show concluded, Steven Tyler exclaimed, “It’s good to be back in Philly,” before exiting the stage.
The “Peace Out” tour is set to visit 40 North American cities and features The Black Crowes as special guests. However, it comes as original drummer Joey Kramer has stepped away from performing with the group. Kramer, who announced a “temporary leave of absence” in March 2022, made this difficult decision following his wife Linda’s passing in June 2022.
Additionally, the tour follows Steven Tyler’s recent treatment for substance abuse, which led to the cancellation of some of their Deuces Are Wild Las Vegas residency shows in May 2022. The band resumed their Vegas performances from September to November 2022.
“Peace Out” marks Aerosmith’s longest run of shows and their first official tour since the Aero-Vederci Baby! Tour in 2017 and 2018. Fans can expect a rock and roll extravaganza as the band bids farewell with style and nostalgia.