Philadelphia, PA – Iconic rock band Aerosmith embarked on their highly anticipated Peace Out farewell tour with an explosive opening show at the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia on Saturday. The tour’s commencement was a momentous occasion marked by high energy, a dazzling repertoire of hits, and heartfelt reflections on a legendary career spanning over five decades.
Before the performance, which marked Aerosmith’s 40th concert appearance in Philadelphia, a large screen descended over the triangular stage, treating the audience to a nostalgic journey through the band’s history. The retrospective footage included interviews with notable figures like Run DMC, Slash, and Mark Wahlberg, along with memorable appearances on shows like Wayne’s World and The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon.
Frontman Steven Tyler, 75, clad in a striking silver-sequined jacket, sleeveless shirt, black-brimmed hat, and black and red pants adorned with printed eyes on the rear, delivered an electrifying performance. With mic stand in hand, Tyler showcased unwavering stamina as he delivered over 16 songs in succession, including crowd favorites like “Sweet Emotion,” “Livin’ on the Edge,” “Cryin’,” and “I Don’t Wanna Miss a Thing.” The grand finale featured “Toys in the Attic,” accompanied by cascading giant balloons from the ceiling.
Amid their string of hits, the Rock & Roll Hall of Famers took poignant moments to share anecdotes from their storied career. Joe Perry, 72, spoke of the significance of one of his guitars, which previously belonged to the late Jeff Beck. Perry revealed that Beck’s wife, Sandra Beck, had encouraged him to use the guitar, emphasizing its role in preserving Jeff’s memory.
Steven Tyler also provided insight into the creation of their iconic song, “Walk This Way.” Seated on stools at the stage’s edge alongside Perry, Tyler recounted the genesis of the song, describing how Perry, seemingly in a haze, began playing a riff, leading Tyler to spontaneously sing along—an unforgettable moment that went on to make history.
Returning for an encore, Tyler, now dressed in a silky shirt adorned with a Hawaiian lei, addressed the Maui wildfires before moving the audience with a rendition of “Dream On” played on a white baby grand piano at the edge of the stage. The final song, “Walk This Way,” concluded with a spectacular burst of confetti throughout the Wells Fargo Center.
Tyler shouted, “It’s good to be back in Philly,” before the band exited the stage.
Aerosmith’s farewell tour will continue until early 2024, encompassing 40 North American cities, with special guests The Black Crowes joining them on the road.
The tour coincides with the absence of the band’s original drummer, Joey Kramer, 73, who initially announced a “temporary leave of absence” in March 2022 and subsequently opted out of the band’s Deuces Are Wild Las Vegas residency. Tragically, his wife, Linda, passed away at the age of 55 in June 2022.
Aerosmith issued a statement addressing Kramer’s absence when they initially announced the farewell shows, expressing understanding for his decision to prioritize his family and health while acknowledging his irreplaceable contribution to the band.
In Joey Kramer’s stead, drummer John Douglas has taken on the role temporarily.
The Peace Out tour follows Steven Tyler’s recent treatment for substance abuse. The band canceled eight shows of their Deuces Are Wild Las Vegas residency in May 2022 after Tyler revealed a relapse following foot surgery.
In a statement at the time, the band revealed Tyler’s dedication to his sobriety and the necessity of pain management during his recovery, leading to his decision to seek treatment to focus on his health and recovery.
Peace Out marks Aerosmith’s most extensive tour since the Aero-Vederci Baby! Tour in 2017 and 2018, promising an unforgettable farewell to their legions of devoted fans.
