Photos & Review by Greg Hamil for MPM
On a crisp November evening, the BMO Center in Rockford, Illinois, transformed into a sanctuary for classic rock devotees. Styx, the legendary band that has been weaving musical tapestries since the early 1970s, returned to the Midwest for a performance that was equal parts nostalgia and innovation. Joined by Loverboy, another titan of the rock era, the night promised—and delivered—a celebration of music that transcends generations. For fans, this wasn’t just a concert; it was a pilgrimage.
The BMO Center, with its 7,000-seat capacity, offered the perfect balance between intimacy and grandeur. As fans streamed in, the air buzzed with anticipation. Conversations floated through the concourse—debates over favorite albums, predictions for the setlist, and shared memories of past shows. The demographic was diverse: baby boomers who grew up with Styx, Gen Xers who discovered them on vinyl, and younger fans drawn by the band’s enduring relevance.
Loverboy took the stage promptly at 7:30 PM, and from the first notes of Notorious, the crowd was hooked. Mike Reno, clad in his signature headband, delivered vocals with a vigor that defied time. The band’s chemistry was palpable—tight rhythms, soaring guitar solos, and an infectious energy that rippled through the arena.
Loverboy Setlist: Notorious – Lucky Ones – Queen of the Broken Hearts – Take Me to the Top – The Kid Is Hot Tonight – Lovin’ Every Minute of It – Hot Girls In Love – Turn Me Loose – Working for the Weekend
At 8:45 PM, the lights dimmed, and a hush fell over the crowd. A cinematic intro played on the massive LED screens, blending archival footage with futuristic graphics—a nod to Styx’s ability to honor their past while embracing the present. Then, the opening riff of Build and Destroy thundered through the speakers, and the band strode onto the stage to a deafening roar.
The setlist was a masterclass in pacing, blending deep cuts with chart-toppers and new material from Circling From Above. Highlights included Too Much Time on My Hands, The Grand Illusion, Lady, Lorelei, Miss America, Crystal Ball, Rockin’ the Paradise, Michigan, The Best of Times, Blue Collar Man, Fooling Yourself, and Come Sail Away. The encore featured Mr. Roboto and Renegade
Midway through the set, the band paused to celebrate JY Young’s birthday. A cake adorned with candles was wheeled out, and the entire arena sang Happy Birthday. JY’s grin was infectious, and his heartfelt thanks underscored the familial bond between Styx and their fans.
Styx’s technical prowess remains unmatched. Todd Sucherman’s drumming was a symphony of precision, his fills and flourishes elevating every track. Terry Gowan anchored the rhythm with understated brilliance, while Will Evankovich added depth with his multi-instrumental versatility.
The production was a feast for the senses. Lighting rigs bathed the stage in kaleidoscopic hues, shifting to match the mood of each song. LED screens projected stunning visuals—from cosmic landscapes during The Grand Illusion to retro-futuristic motifs during Mr. Roboto.
The crowd was electric, their energy feeding the band in a symbiotic loop. Sing-alongs during Come Sail Away and Renegade created moments of pure unity. Fans danced, cheered, and even wept during the more emotional numbers.
Styx’s roots run deep in the Midwest. Emerging from Chicago in the early ’70s, they carved a niche with their fusion of progressive rock, hard rock, and pop sensibilities. Albums like The Grand Illusion and Pieces of Eight became cultural touchstones.
The Styx concert at the BMO Center was more than a performance—it was a reaffirmation of rock’s enduring power. With a flawless setlist, stellar musicianship, and moments of genuine human connection, Styx reminded us why they remain icons.
