According to staff writer Keith Spera, veteran rockers Bryan Adams and Pat Benatar delivered stripped-down, all-live performances devoid of prerecorded tracks during their concert at the Smoothie King Center in New Orleans.
Bryan Adams Brings Unfiltered Rock to New Orleans Arena
Bryan Adams staged a straightforward rock concert utilizing an unadorned black stage featuring minimal lighting and no backing tracks, according to Spera’s reporting. Playing alongside longtime guitarist Keith Scott, drummer Pat Steward, and keyboardist Gary Breits, the 66-year-old artist delivered a two-hour set spanning acoustic numbers and high-energy rock anthems.
Spera noted that Adams opened the performance unannounced from a secondary stage at the back of the arena floor before migrating to the main stage. The setlist balanced classic hits like “Run to You” and “Summer of ’69” with newer material, including “Roll With the Punches” and the Canada Day single “51st State.”
Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo Keep Minimalist Approach Front and Center
Opening act Pat Benatar performed a minimalist hourlong set accompanied by her husband and musical collaborator of 47 years, guitarist Neil “Spyder” Giraldo, as reported by Spera. The duo bypassed modern visual spectacles, relying on Giraldo’s guitar work and Benatar’s vocals across tracks such as “All Fired Up,” “Promises in the Dark,” and “Hell Is For Children.”
Spera highlighted that the pair omitted “Hit Me With Your Best Shot,” a song Benatar retired out of respect for victims of gun violence. Giraldo maintained primary duties across rhythm and lead guitar, while Benatar closed out the set with “Love Is a Battlefield” and a rendition of “Heartbreaker” that folded into Johnny Cash’s “Ring of Fire.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Did Bryan Adams use backing tracks during his New Orleans concert?
No. According to reporter Keith Spera, Adams and his three-band lineup performed every sound live without the aid of prerecorded vocals or music tracks.
Who accompanied Pat Benatar on stage?
Pat Benatar performed alongside her husband and primary musical collaborator of 47 years, guitarist Neil “Spyder” Giraldo.
What notable song did Pat Benatar exclude from her setlist?
Benatar skipped “Hit Me With Your Best Shot,” a track she retired several years ago out of respect for victims of gun violence.
Did you know? Bryan Adams first performed in New Orleans in July 1983 at Tad Gormley Stadium as an opening act for Zebra, Foghat, and Journey, long before headlining arenas with his current touring personnel.
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