If you’re looking for iconic rock bands with decades of experience and a lot of love for their fans, you need look no further than the Foo Fighters. Formed in 1994 in Seattle, the group took the industry by storm. Dave Grohl, the former Nirvana drummer, has headlined the band since the start, and they hit the ground running with their debut album in 1995.
Today, the Foo Fighters are widely regarded as one of the most influential rock bands in history. With decades of performances spanning roughly three decades, there are some truly incredible shows in the group’s past. Let’s take a look at some of the most iconic Foo Fighters performances.
Harvey’s Casino (2023)
On 10th August 2023, the Foo Fighters put on a truly inspired show at the outdoor arena at Harvey’s Casino in Lake Tahoe. While the band was drenched in sweat by song three, they kept the energy up all night. The show was also one of the first with the group’s new drummer at the time, Josh Freese. While there’s no word on when the Foo Fighters will put on another show at Harvey’s, there are plenty of live game shows to enjoy in the meantime.
Edgefest (1998)
The Foo Fighters have been incredibly popular for decades, but some would say that their popularity reached new heights in the late 90s. In 1998, the band took the stage at Edgefest – or, to be more precise, took the stages at Edgefest, a festival that took the band across the US. Fans recall that summer being an electric one, with unforgettable performances and the kind of energy that only a group in their prime can exude.
Wembley Stadium (2008)
Jumping ahead a decade, we have the Foo Fighters’ first appearance at Wembley Stadium. They performed for their UK fans for two sold-out nights – some of the first times they performed a large show in the country. From iconic tracks such as ‘Best of You’ to ‘My Hero’, the group was in spectacular form – and to top it all off, they were joined by Led Zeppelin, one of the most legendary British rock bands in the business!
The ‘Break a Leg’ show (2015)
If anyone ever doubted Dave Grohl’s commitment to his fans, the infamous ‘Break a Leg’ show in Gothenburg, Sweden surely put those fears to rest. Early on in the set, Grohl fractured his leg when he fell off the stage. At first, it seemed as though the show would be rescheduled, with some fans even leaving the venue. Those who remained experienced the performance of a lifetime when Grohl returned and performed the rest of the concert sitting down (sometimes with medical professionals poking and prodding at his feet). Despite the injury, the show was an incredible one, with the band’s commitment to their fans shining through.
20th Anniversary Show (2015)
Shortly after breaking his leg in Sweden, Grohl, along with the rest of the band, performed in Washington, DC for their 20th anniversary. While he was still seated for the performance, this time Grohl rested on a throne fit for a rockstar, marking one of the few performances that the group was able to fulfil immediately after the accident. A veritable stream of special guests elevated the show even more, with everyone from Trouble Funk to Gary Clark to Buddy Guy making appearances.
Taylor Hawkins Tribute Concerts (2022)
Shortly after the death of their long-time drummer Taylor Hawkins, who had been part of the group since 1997, the Foo Fighters put on a series of tribute concerts to celebrate his life and legacy. Unlike some of the other entries on our list, this wasn’t a particularly joyful handful of shows. They were incredibly poignant, however, and allowed both the band and their fans to grieve together. Guests such as Sir Paul McCartney, Liam Gallagher and Pink guest-starred to share their condolences and honour Hawkins’ memory.
It’s easy to see why the Foo Fighters are so loved by their fans. We haven’t even gone through all of their iconic shows, either – there are truly too many to detail in one article. If you’d like to learn more about the group’s performances through the years, do some digging! You’re sure to find something to love.
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