Rock Royalty Reigns: Styx Sets the Stage Ablaze with Electrifying Performance in Tampa on 7/20

This past Saturday I saw the concert of the year. Styx and Foreigner with Special Guest John Waite. Each one of these groups brought their A game and put on an extraordinary performance amid the heat and humidity of a Florida evening in the summer.

Styx captivated the crowd with an electrifying concert, igniting a buzz of energy and nostalgia. Renowned for their complex harmonies and robust instrumentation, the band lived up to expectations, performing a blend of enduring classics and beloved favorites.

Set List:

1. The Grand Illusion
2. Blue Collar Man (Long Nights)
3. Lady
4. Lorelei
5. Light Up
6. Fooling Yourself (The Angry Young Man)
7. Man in the Wilderness
8. Suite Madame Blue
9. Crystal Ball
10. Miss America
11. Snowblind
12. Too Much Time on My Hands
13. Rockin’ the Paradise
14. Come Sail Away

Encore:

15. Mr. Roboto
16. Renegade

From the moment the band kicked off the show with “The Grand Illusion,” the crowd was immediately transported back to the golden era of rock. With his signature blond locks and charismatic stage presence, Tommy Shaw was a dynamo on the guitar and vocals. James “JY” Young brought his usual intensity, shredding through solos with a precision that showcased why he remains a key pillar of the band.

The night was filled with highlights. “Blue Collar Man (Long Nights)” had the audience singing along word for word, and the emotional rendition of “Lady” brought a wave of nostalgia and sentimentality. Lawrence Gowan, the band’s keyboardist and co-lead vocalist, was particularly impressive during “Come Sail Away,” his flamboyant performance style and vocal prowess breathing new life into the classic anthem.

Styx’s stage production was equally noteworthy, featuring stunning visual effects that complemented their dynamic sound. The lights, synchronized perfectly with the music, added an extra layer of excitement, making the experience immersive and unforgettable. The band’s energy was infectious, and they seemed genuinely thrilled to be performing, feeding off the crowd’s enthusiasm.

The encore was the icing on the cake. “Mr. Roboto” had everyone on their feet, with its catchy synth lines and theatrical flair, and “Renegade” closed the night on a high note, the audience’s voices blending perfectly with Shaw’s as they sang the iconic chorus together.

Styx proved they are still a force to be reckoned with in the rock world. Their performance on July 20, 2024, was a testament to their enduring appeal and musicianship. They delivered a flawless show and created an atmosphere that made every attendee feel part of something special. This concert was a spectacular celebration of rock and roll history, and Tommy Shaw and Styx once again showed why they are considered rock royalty.