By Mitch West
Omaha's CHI Health Center erupted this past Monday night as rock royalty stormed the stage. The Renegades & Juke Box Heroes Tour unleashed a sonic tidal wave, with Foreigner, Styx, and John Waite turning the Good Life into the Loud Life. This wasn't just a concert; it was a seismic event in the heartland of rock 'n' roll that included lasers, pyro, fog, on stage props and so much more!
John Waite at CHI Health Center Photo Credit: @thatonemitchkid
The night kicked off with a sonic blast from the past as John Waite, the voice that's serenaded multiple decades, took the stage. From his early days fronting The Babys in the '70s to his chart-topping solo career in the '80s and his stint with the supergroup Bad English in the '90s, Waite has been a chameleon of rock. The man behind the timeless ballad 'Missing You' proved he's anything but missing from the music scene. With a career spanning over 40 years and a vocal range that's weathered the storms of changing musical landscapes, Waite set the stage ablaze, reminding the audience why he's more than just a one-hit wonder – he's a survivor and innovator in the world of rock. The crowd was in the zone with him singing along to Change, Missing You and an epic cover of Led Zepplin's "Whole Lot of Love" and believe us when we say Waite nailed those vocals.
Tommy Shaw of Styx at CHI Health Center Photo Credit: @thatonemitchkid
Styx: a name that's been etched in rock history since 1972. These road-hardened virtuosos, forged in the crucible of Chicago's music scene, transformed the stage into a time machine, warping through five decades with the precision of master craftsmen.
From their prog-rock roots to their arena rock heyday, Styx has weathered lineup changes and shifting musical tides, selling over 54 million records along the way. The band's resilience was on full display as they powered through classics like 'The Grand Illusion' and 'Come Sail Away,' alongside newer gems like 'Crash of the Crown.' Each note was a testament to why, after all these years, they still reign supreme in rock's pantheon. Styx didn't just play their hits – they rekindled the magic that has kept them relevant for over half a century, proving that true rock 'n' roll is indeed timeless.
Kelly Hansen of Foreigner at CHI Health Center Photo Credit: @thatonemitchkid
Foreigner, architects of arena rock since 1976, capped the night with a bittersweet bang. Fresh from their Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction, this 'farewell' tour isn't a final goodbye, but a shift from globe-trotting to more selective gigs. Lucky us.
Born from Lou Gramm and Mick Jones' creative fusion, Foreigner has sold over 80 million records worldwide. Their performance was a rollercoaster of emotions, hitting every high note of their 47-year career. Veterans and first-timers alike were swept up in the spectacle. Lead singer Kelly Hansen, carrying the torch since 2005, refused to be tethered to the stage, soaring above the crowd for 'Juke Box Hero,' turning the entire venue into his playground. From 'Double Vision' to 'Hot Blooded,' Foreigner proved they're not just playing the hits – they're breathing new life into rock legends that have soundtracked generations. If you haven't done so already, check out our interview with Foreigners Michael Bluestein HERE.
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