AC/DC Delivers Electrifying Performance in Tampa with an Impressive Setlist

AC/DC brought a powerful performance to a sold-out audience of 53,000 at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida, marking their first concert in the area in 17 years. The iconic band, led by 70-year-old Angus Young, kicked off the evening with “If You Want Blood (You’ve Got It),” launching into a high-energy, two-hour show characterized by their hallmark hard rock sound. The concert concluded with an impressive display of fireworks and cannon shots, encapsulating the raw energy that AC/DC is known for.

Young, the band’s enduring guitarist and a staple of rock history, showcased his signature style dressed in the now-iconic green schoolboy outfit. While his movements were less frenetic than in his youth, his guitar skills have not waned, delivering riffs that resonated deeply with the crowd. Despite the passage of time, the sound from his Gibson guitar remains as powerful as ever, underscoring the band’s commitment to delivering authentic rock music.

Formed in Australia in 1973, AC/DC has long been celebrated for their electrifying live shows, and this performance did not disappoint. Fans spanning multiple generations gathered to experience the band’s exhilarating performance, with many raising their hands in classic “devil horns” gestures throughout the night. While the concert was dubbed the “Power Up” tour in reference to their latest album, only two tracks from that record were featured, instead favoring a setlist rich in nostalgia, with ten tracks hailing from the Bon Scott era.

Lead singer Brian Johnson, who resides nearby in Sarasota, appeared to navigate the demands of his vocals with some difficulty at times, a testament to the toll of years spent performing. Despite this challenge, he remained a captivating presence on stage as they progressed through a series of beloved hits, including “Back in Black,” “Highway to Hell,” and “Thunderstruck.” The band’s commitment to their roots was evident as they performed classics that span decades.

The concert opened with an engaging set by The Pretty Reckless, fronted by Taylor Momsen, who dazzled the audience with her stage presence and engaging vocals. Their performance laid the groundwork for the main event, seamlessly setting the tone for what was to come.

As the night unfolded, AC/DC’s skillful musicianship and dedication to rock music were met with adulation from their enthusiastic fans. The band concluded their set with an explosive 25-minute rendition of “Let There Be Rock,” further encouraging the crowd’s reverence as they called for more. The encore, which featured “T.N.T.” and “For Those About to Rock (We Salute You),” solidified the band’s legacy as one of the greatest live acts in rock history.

In total, AC/DC’s performance was not merely a concert but a celebration of rock and roll, drawing together fans from various walks of life, all united in their appreciation for an enduring musical legacy.