One of the most successful nu-metal bands of all time, Papa Roach, stormed into the Motorpoint Arena, Nottingham, on February 8th for a magnificent sold-out show. With an unwavering career spanning decades, the band—led by the ever-charismatic Jacoby Shaddix—delivered a high-energy performance packed with emotion, nostalgia, and a powerful message.
A long-time advocate for mental health awareness, Shaddix has always used his platform to encourage resilience and hope. Papa Roach’s music has consistently carried themes of perseverance and finding light in the darkest of times, and that spirit was on full display throughout the night.
From the very start, the frontman’s infectious enthusiasm electrified the crowd. “Do you know where we’re from?” he asked, before launching into an unexpected but exhilarating cover of 2Pac’s “California Love”—a nod to the band’s West Coast roots. The stage design was nothing short of spectacular, featuring massive LED screens with stylish visuals, bursts of fire, and plumes of smoke, making for a truly immersive experience.
Midway through the set, Papa Roach took a moment to make an important announcement: the band would be donating to a local charity supporting suicide awareness. In an emotional tribute, they also honored the late Chester Bennington of Linkin Park, acknowledging his struggles with mental health and emphasizing the importance of looking out for one another. “You never know when you might save someone’s life,” Shaddix reminded the crowd, reinforcing the band’s deep commitment to their fans beyond the music.
A particularly moving moment came during “Leave a Light On”, when thousands of phone flashlights illuminated the arena, creating a sea of light that perfectly complemented Shaddix’s heartfelt vocals. It was a powerful display of unity, proving once again that Papa Roach’s connection with their fans goes far beyond just the music.
As the night drew to a close, the band treated the audience to a mash-up of iconic nu-metal tracks from the 2000s, before launching into the explosive finale: their signature anthem, “Last Resort”. The crowd erupted in a frenzy, screaming every lyric back at the band—proof that, even decades later, the song remains a defining track of its genre.
Papa Roach’s ability to blend relentless energy, nostalgia, and meaningful messages makes them one of nu-metal’s most enduring forces. Not only do they keep the genre alive and thriving, but they also use their platform for important conversations that truly resonate. We can only hope to see Papa Roach back in the UK soon.
Be the first to comment