The music industry has seen some of history’s most famous artists undertake long tours that enthrall audiences around the globe. These lengthy tours not only put across the crowd hold of artists but also the long-standing appeal of musicians. Here is an overview of the ten longest ones in modern history.
10. Janet Jackson – Rhythm Nation (194 Shows)
Janet Jackson’s Rhythm Nation was probably one of the most dramatic pop concerts that ever took place, featuring highly complex choreography with social reprimands sewn into its very fabric. Stationed over 194 shows, Jackson was displayed as a marvelous entertainer as well as a visionary.
9. Guns N’ Roses – Use Your Illusion (194 Shows)
Possibly the most electrifying tour ever, Guns N’ Roses’ Use Your Illusion tour encapsulated 194 astonishing performances. The tour extended the band’s already towering reputation as rock icons, with stage presentations bigger than life itself.
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8. Pink Floyd – Momentary Lapse of Reason (198 Shows)
Pinks Floyd’s momentary Lapse of Reason tour spanned totality 198 shows and was their return to live shows. Rated for its atmosphere and stupendous light shows, this rocked concerts into a new scale.
7. Roger Waters – The Wall Live (219 Shows)
Roger Waters, co-founder of Pink Floyd, conjured The Wall for a live production that was nothing short of astounding. Combining cutting-edge visuals and timeless music, the tour played out 219 times before enraptured audiences the world over.
6. Aerosmith – Get a Grip (231 Shows)
Aerosmith’s Get A Grip tour took their rock anthems on a 231-venue tour that brought together gorgeous songs with high-energy performance style. This remains a defining chapter in the band’s storied career.
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5. Metallica – Wherever We May Roam (234 Shows)
Wherever We May Roam tour is quintessentially defined by the heavy metal juggernaut’s incessant motion. Stretching across continents, it palpitated for 234 concerts, strengthening Metallica’s position as one of the mightiest live acts in music history.
4. Ed Sheeran – + Tour (255 Shows)
One of the best representations of Ed Sheeran’s rapid ascent toward fame is his + Tour. With an astounding 255 shows, Sheeran’s live performance effectively delivered an intimate energetic kick capable of capturing audiences all over the globe, armed with just a guitar and a loop pedal.
3. Elton John – Farewell Yellow Brick Road (300 Shows)
Elton John’s farewell tour, titled Farewell Yellow Brick Road, marks the conclusion of an era. Planned with as many as 300 shows, it celebrates and recognizes Elton John’s decades-long career while giving fans one last chance to witness the concert icon.
2. Bruce Springsteen – Tunnel of Love Express (384 Shows)
The Tunnel of Love Express tour stands out as a beacon in this legend’s resplendent career. With 384 shows completed, this tour laid the intense emotional resonance of Springsteen’s music on global crowds and catapulted him to the level of one of the greatest performers in rock history.
1. Bob Dylan – Never Ending Tour (3,000+ Shows)
No discourse on long tours is complete without mention of Bob Dylan’s Never Ending Tour. This tour started in 1988 and is ongoing until today with over 3,000 shows played worldwide. Known for constantly shifting setlists, this tour stands out as an expression of Dylan’s love for live music-making and unparalleled devotion to his audience.
Such tours represent cathartic power in live music and explain their abilities to entertain audiences all over the world. Be they the arduous schedules of Bob Dylan or emotional farewells of Elton John, the tours have taken up their place in the halls of history.
