The cool Jersey air on an August night was refreshing, and the thermostat wasn’t set to inferno for a change. Fans eagerly awaited the three iconic rock ’n’ roll acts, all with roots in the 70s and 80s, who would perform on the same stage this night.
Styx, along with the Kevin Cronin Band and Don Felder, formerly of The Eagles, is embarked on the headline tour across America for their Brotherhood of Rock 2025 Tour. The trio packed the Freedom Mortgage Pavilion night in Camden, NJ, delivering classic rock radio hits that have entertained generations of fans.
Don Felder, the legendary guitarist of the Eagles, opened the show with a spectacular 30-minute, 10-song set performance of classic hits of the Eagles. His energy and precision were remarkable, making it difficult to believe he was 77 years old. Felder began with the Eagles’ hit “Already Gone” and concluded with the iconic “Hotel California” on his iconic white double-neck Gibson SG. His set was fast and powerful, leaving the audience wanting more. The only sad part was that it was hard to come to an end.
Kevin Cronin and his Band delivered a dynamic set for the second band of the night. With Cronin proving he and his bandmates, many of whom were formerly members of REO Speedwagon, still have the fire that made them icons of rock. Kevin was in top form—his vocals sounded crisp and powerful, as if lifted straight from the band’s chart-topping days, while his guitar and piano work showcased his multi-instrumental talent. The band’s unity was evident as each member had moments to shine, with standouts like “Take It on the Run,” “Time for Me to Fly,” and the lovelorn “Can’t Fight This Feeling.” From start to finish, the band brought the energy, smiles, charisma, and musicianship to the stage.
Styx delivered a two-powerful set that showcased their legendary music as the final band of the night. The first set featured their iconic 1977 album, “The Grand Illusion,” performed in its entirety. The second set was a career-spanning “Best Of” collection, featuring five of their most beloved hits including “Too Much Time on My Hands,” “Blue Collar Man (Long Nights),” and “Mr. Roboto.
From the very first guitar chord of “The Grand Illusion,” fans were instantly captivated by the band. Not to be outdone by Kevin Cronin, Styx filled their first set show with smash hits like “Come Sail Away,” “Fooling Yourself (The Angry Youn Man),” and “Miss America,” which ignited the crowd. The band’s musicianship was on full display, blending progressive rock with dazzling keyboard solos, harmonized vocals, and guitar riffs that felt both vintage and fresh at the same time.
As the final notes of “Renegade” reverberated through the stadium, the crowd erupted in thunderous applause. It was evident that Styx had remained steadfast in their craft, their passion for music palpable as they played with the heart of seasoned pros who still reveled in the energy of their fans.
