Live Review: Bryan Adams – So Happy It Hurts Tour in Melbourne 2025
15th February 2025 at Rod Laver Arena, Melbourne, Australia
Review by Jeana Thomas
Photo by Richard Nicholson
Bryan Adams’ concert in Melbourne was a captivating celebration of his legendary career, drawing music fans from all corners of the city, eager to experience the anthems that have made the Canadian rocker a household name. With hits like ‘Summer of ’69’, ‘Everything I Do (I Do It for You)’, and ‘Run to You’, Adams has firmly etched himself into the fabric of rock history. His return to Melbourne was a perfect mix of nostalgic charm, electric energy and the timeless power of his music, reminding the city why it’s always been such a perfect match for his rock ‘n’ roll spirit.
The Melbourne crowd was undoubtedly a loyal and enthusiastic one, many of whom had grown up with Adams’ music as the soundtrack to their youth. The age range of the audience was diverse; there were older fans who had been with Adams since the beginning, as well as younger generations who had discovered his music more recently through various mediums. Patrons had the opportunity to send through song requests via a QR code that was on the screen before the show began. This was definitely going to be an interactive concert.
Adams, ever the charismatic performer, immediately tapped into this energy as he took the stage with his band, with the stage lit up in a fiery red colour. The crowd erupted with cheers and the night seemed to promise a thrilling trip down memory lane, set against the backdrop of his world-renowned sound. The stage was simple yet effective, adorned with vibrant lighting and a screen that intermittently displayed visuals that complimented his performances, images that ranged from tour footage to thematic visuals to complement his music videos. He cleverly set up three mics on the stage and he worked them all, giving everyone equal viewing. There was a catwalk coming off the main stage, so that he could be closer to the crowd. The crowd were also treated to a large inflatable boxing glove that flew overhead, as well as an inflatable car during a few of the songs.
He’s no stranger to curating a setlist that spans his career and this concert was no different. Beginning with a high-energy rendition of ‘Kick Ass’, the pace was set for an evening filled with familiar hits, fan favourites and unexpected gems. He followed up with ‘Can’t Stop This Thing We Started’, which showcased his undeniable talent as both a singer and a musician. The audience was immediately swept up in the pulsating rhythms and Adams, guitar in hand, demonstrated his continued proficiency in crafting anthemic songs.
However, it wasn’t just the familiar hits that kept the crowd engaged. Throughout the concert, Adams ventured into his catalogue, giving the audience a deeper understanding of the evolution of his music. The deep cuts such as ‘Heaven’ and ‘Cuts Like a Knife’ were greeted with raucous applause, proving that even the more understated songs have their devoted fanbase.
Of course, no Bryan Adams concert would be complete without his most iconic anthems. ‘Summer of ’69’ was, as expected, the highlight of the evening. The vibe in the arena was absolutely electric when those first few chords hit. The whole crowd instantly joined in, singing every word (which they did to many of his songs throughout the night).
Equally powerful was his rendition of ‘Everything I Do (I Do It for You)’. The ballad, which had dominated charts worldwide, was given a fresh twist and Adams’ voice, still as powerful as ever, soared through the arena. There was something special about hearing the song live, the full emotional weight of its lyrics becoming even more tangible in person.
When Adams cranked up ‘You Belong to Me’ (with a Segway into Elvis’s ‘Blue Suede Shoes’), it wasn’t just the music that got people moving, it was like the entire crowd had a spontaneous wardrobe malfunction! Shirts, jackets, even shoes came off in a wave of wild enthusiasm and the energy was off the charts. Bryan couldn’t help but laugh as he confessed to seeing things he can never unsee, all captured by the videographer and displayed on the screen. But honestly, the whole thing was so funny that it became a legendary moment that no one would ever forget.
His vocal performance was one of the standout features of the night. Despite being in the industry for decades, his voice remains remarkably strong and versatile. His gravelly, yet smooth, tone still carries the same warmth and passion that it did when he first emerged onto the music scene.
Adams is a master of stage presence. He possesses the kind of effortless charisma that makes his performances feel intimate, even in large venues. He ensured everyone got a good view, even at the end of the night, taking his microphone stand and going all the way to the back of the arena and playing to the crowd there. It was clear that Adams enjoyed the live experience just as much as his fans did, as he played over time.
While Adams is undeniably the focal point of the show, his band played a crucial role in ensuring the performance was a success. The musicians surrounding him were tight, bringing precision and energy to each song. The rhythm section, consisting of bass, drums and keyboards, provided the backbone for Adams’ guitar work and vocal delivery
A standout was the guitarist (Keith Scott), who often matched Adams in intensity, creating a dynamic interplay between them that added a layer of excitement to the performance. Together, they created a wall of sound that felt expansive yet precise.
With the clock ticking down, he had a list of song requests from people in the audience. As he sang through many of them, he was reminded that the venue had a curfew. With a grin, Adams shot back, “I don’t do curfews!” and the crowd cheered and laughed, then he proceeded to play on.
After singing their final song “Rewrite The Stars’, the band members took their bows and exited the stage. Adams wasn’t done yet, no band, no problem – just Adams and his guitar he sang the final two songs ‘Straight From The Heart’ and ‘All For Love’ from the back of the arena and the crowd absolutely loved every minute of it. It was the perfect rebellious moment, proving you can’t box in a rock star like Bryan Adams!
I found his concert to be a tribute not only to his iconic catalogue, but also to his enduring presence in the rock music landscape. With a rare ability to evoke deep emotion, rock out with unmatched intensity and cultivate a genuine bond with his audience, he remains a performer whose relevance transcends time. I had such an amazing time, that seriously, it was unforgettable! I can’t wait to see this rock icon again someday.
Sheldon Ang Media would like to thank Frontier Touring and Bryan Adams for the accreditation
About the Writer: Originally hailing from Western Australia, Jeana Thomas now thrives in the vibrant city of Melbourne. Amidst the hustle of her role in a prominent teaching hospital, she also navigates the dynamic world of entrepreneurship as the owner of a medical transcription company. Beyond her professional endeavours, Jeana finds solace and joy in the rhythm of music, the allure of travel and the artistry of photography, with a particular passion for wildlife photography.
About Sheldon Ang Media: Sheldon Ang Media (est. May 2022) have been accredited to more than 150 of the hottest acts including Coldplay (Perth), Taylor Swift (ERAS Tour in Sydney), KISS, Iron Maiden, RHCP, P!NK and The Kid LAROI with reviews shared by the likes of Belinda Carlisle, UB40, Delta Goodrem, The Wiggles and Toni Childs on social media. The founder has interviewed rockers Suzi Quatro, Ace Frehley (KISS), John Steel (The Animals), Frank Ferrer (Guns N Roses), Phil X (Bon Jovi), Andrew Farris (INXS) plus over 70 artists. SAM is also a music journalist on the Triple M Radio network.
