The PNC Music Pavilion, nestled in the heart of Charlotte, North Carolina, has long been a haven for music enthusiasts seeking unforgettable live performances. On a balmy summer evening, the venue played host to an electrifying concert by the legendary rock band Foreigner, delivering a musical experience that transcended generations and left an indelible mark on all those fortunate enough to be in attendance.
As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm, golden glow over the sprawling amphitheater, a palpable sense of excitement coursed through the air. Concertgoers of all ages, from avid fans who had grown up with Foreigner’s anthems to curious newcomers eager to witness rock history, gathered in anticipation of a night that promised to be nothing short of spectacular.
Foreigner, a band that has left an indelible imprint on the rock music landscape for over four decades, took to the stage amidst a roar of applause that resonated throughout the pavilion. The lights go down and Kelly Hanson Foreigners front man appears at the top of the stairway with spotlights on him. Dressed in a yellow t-shirt with a gray striped vest, a grey scarf wrapped around his neck and pants that look like green and blue tie-dye. He then jumps off the stage and comes running straight to the crowd kicking it off with the thunderous riff of “Double Vision,” immediately transporting the audience back to an era defined by leather jackets, headbanging, and unapologetic rock ‘n’ roll energy followed by” Head Games and Cold as Ice”.
Vocalist Kelly Hansen, a charismatic powerhouse with a magnetic stage presence, effortlessly stepped into the shoes of original frontman Lou Gramm. His dynamic performance breathed new life into classics like “Cold as Ice,” “Juke Box Hero,” and the unforgettable power ballad “I Want to Know What Love Is.” Hansen’s ability to connect with the audience, his soaring vocals resonating with emotion, elicited a sea of lighters and cell phones held aloft, creating a mesmerizing constellation of lights against the night sky.
Hansen was also very comical, basically telling jokes while in between songs. He had the whole arena laughing.
Foreigner took time to slow it down a little with an acoustic set. Me personally I’m not big on acoustic sets. They played “When It Comes To Love, Girl on the Moon and Say You Will”. After that It was a celebration of the band’s enduring legacy, punctuated by moments of improvisation and instrumental virtuosity that highlighted the undeniable talent of each musician on stage. They did a keyboard solo followed by a drum solo.
Throughout the evening, the synergy between the band and its audience was palpable. Hands clapped, voices harmonized, and strangers became friends as the music united everyone in a shared experience that transcended age, background, and time. The PNC Music Pavilion became a living, breathing entity, pulsating with the raw energy of rock ‘n’ roll and the collective joy of a community united by music. The band starts playing “Juke Box Hero”. This is one of my favorites and yes, I was singing every word. Halfway through the song the lights go down then I look back in the audience and there’s Hansen, he is high in the sky standing on a round pole lit up with lights. This was the highlight of the evening.
As the final chords of “Hot Blooded” reverberated through the night, Foreigner’s performance came to a triumphant close. The audience, invigorated and inspired, erupted into a standing ovation that seemed to echo for miles. The band took their final bows, acknowledging the adoration and gratitude of their fans, who had embarked on this sonic journey with them.
The Foreigner concert at the PNC Music Pavilion wasn’t just a concert; it was a testament to the power of music to bridge generations, evoke emotions, and create lasting memories. As the crowd dispersed, smiles etched onto their faces and melodies lingering in their hearts, it was clear that this magical night would forever hold a special place in the annals of both Foreigner’s illustrious career and the storied history of the PNC Music Pavilion.
