Top 10 Live Music Performances of the Century So Far

Top 10 Live Music Performances of the Century So Far

Welcome to MsMojo, and today we’re counting down our picks for the most impressive and/or iconic live music from 2000 to the present.

#10: Neil Patrick Harris Opens the 2011 Tonys (2011)

If people don’t know Broadway, this is a great entry point for the excessive talent at the Tonys. Host Neil Patrick Harris uses this moment as an opportunity to welcome outsiders into musical theater with a hilarious song. Along the way, the presenter shows off his ability to get laughs, dance, and sing complicated verses. There’s also some audience interactions that add to this already-enjoyable performance. Fans and even haters of musicals can find something to love here in a self-aware look at the medium. With Harris at the helm, this funny number ranks as one of the award show’s finest moments.

#9: Pink at the 2010 Grammys (2010)

Anybody that thought of this artist as just another 2000s pop star will reconsider after this performance. While singing “Glitter in the Air,” Pink goes one step beyond by taking to the air. She proves that she’s as gifted in her choreography as she is as a vocalist. Most people would have trouble even carrying a tune, but she doesn’t miss a beat floating several feet above the stage. It’s a death-defying act that could have easily found its way onto Cirque du Soleil. There’s also water effects, making a difficult routine look even more impressive. This ultimately serves as much as a work of art as it does as pure entertainment.

#8: George Harrison Tribute at the Rock and Roll Hallme of Fame Induction Ceremony (2004)

When the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inducted George Harrison, they pulled out all the stops to honor the musician’s memory. This rendition of “While My Guitar Gently Weeps” features an all-star lineup of rock legends. Jeff Lynne and Tom Petty bring their talents to this beautiful rendition, but the real highlight comes from Prince’s guitar skills. Standing out among musical luminaries, the musician proves he’s arguably the most gifted person on the stage. His extended solo caps off an amazing tribute that also includes Harrison’s son Dhani. You can’t find many rock performances this electric, soulful, and extraordinary.

#7: Paul McCartney Does Glastonbury (2022)

Still exciting crowds in his 80s, Paul McCartney shows no signs of slowing down with this appearance. It narrowly beats out other fun performances like his surprise return to Shea Stadium (Now known as Citifield -added it as a just so you know!). McCartney glides through many of the best songs in his solo and Beatles’ catalog. There’s a number of musical guests that include Dave Grohl for “Band on the Run.” The legend brings pure joy to every track, combining nostalgia and gravitas to some of the most iconic works of the 20th century. He also makes room for a tribute to John Lennon that will have any music fan tearing up. With classic tunes and a natural stage presence, the musician proves that you can rock out at any age.

#6: Aretha Franklin at the Kennedy Center Honors (2015)

At the “Kennedy Center Honors,” Carole King received praise for her contribution to music. Aretha Franklin arrived to salute the artist, singing “(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman.” The singer plays piano and performs one of King’s classic compositions with youthful energy. She reminds everyone of her imitable voice and one-of-a-kind talents. Franklin finally stands up, drops her coat, and unleashes her powerful vocals to the theater. It’s such a profound moment that the audience can’t help but respond with huge cheers. Bringing President Obama and others to tears, this performance captures the emotional peaks of music.

#5: Heart at the Kennedy Center Honors (2012)

Anybody in rock music knows that “Stairway to Heaven” is considered something close to sacred. Few people dare to cover it, but Heart steps up to the challenge and succeeds. The Wilson sisters and Jason Bonham bring together a spectacular arrangement of this classic. Singer Ann Wilson gives a standout vocal performance, paying tribute to the work of Robert Plant. The original members of Zeppelin watch in awe as a choir rounds out the stellar sound. Bringing an epic sound to the Kennedy Center, this assembly of musical talent can’t be overstated. Aside from the first release, this version might be among the best covers of its kind.

#4: Taylor Swift Eras Tour Concert Film (2023)

In one of her most successful years as a singer, Taylor Swift came up with a brilliant business and artistic decision. She created the Eras tour and subsequently turned it into a concert film. For anyone that couldn’t get tickets to the real thing, this movie reveals all of Swift’s musical excellence. The slickly-edited experience shows off her elaborate and effective vision for a career retrospective. Including many of her most beloved songs, the show stopping work highlights everything from the costumes to the other stage performers. It might not be the same as seeing it live, but audiences can find lots to love about this incredible production.

#3: Muse at Glastonbury (2004)

In the early 2000s, Muse were steadily building up a catalog of acclaimed albums. They capitalized on their early success with this appearance at Glastonbury in 2004. Considered by the band to be one of their greatest live shows, this serves as a perfect example of their musicality. Playing many tracks from their “Absolution” record, the group sounds both self-assured and ready to conquer the world. Matt Bellamy’s roaring vocals soar over the crowd as his bandmates keep up the energy on every song. Nothing short of an incredible rock performance, this concert shows that they’ve been musically-adventurous long before the days of “Uprising.”

#2: Prince at Super Bowl XLI (2007)

Considered among the most versatile musicians ever, Prince reminded everyone of this fact with his performance at the Super Bowl. He plays many of his finest songs as well as some surprising covers. Even his unexpected rendition of the Foo Fighters’ “Best of You” feels like his own work. Showcasing his abilities as a singer and instrumentalist, the performer brings an effortless charm to every second of this show. He also proves that he can’t be stopped by any bad weather. As if he summons it himself, the artist performs in the rain without missing a beat. This makes the impact of his hit “Purple Rain” feel even more special here.

#1: Beychella (2018)

To some people, they might say that there’s Coachella before and after Beyoncé. Her performance here ranks among the festival’s best shows. Bringing along a troupe of backup dancers and an elaborate set, the artist spares no expense in showcasing her musical abilities. There’s a marching band, amazing production design, and a few surprises along the way. Singing her heart out, the vocalist provides audiences with a rush to their senses throughout. She even works in a spectacular Destiny’s Child reunion. Few people can encompass their career into one presentation, but she does that and more in an appearance that rivals her halftime show.

Did we forget any worthy musical performances? Let us know in the comments below.