The iconic Massey Hall in Toronto was alive with anticipation on the evening of June 2, 2025. As fans filled the historic venue, the air buzzed with excitement for the return of George Thorogood & The Destroyers. Known for their high-energy performances and timeless rock anthems, the band was set to deliver a night to remember. The stage was set, the lights dimmed, and the crowd erupted into cheers as the band took their places, ready to rock the house.
Full Setlist
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Rock Party
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Who Do You Love?
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Mama Talk to Your Daughter
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I Drink Alone
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One Bourbon, One Scotch, One Beer
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Cocaine Blues
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Gear Jammer
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Get a Haircut
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Bad to the Bone
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Gloria
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Move It on Over
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Born to Be Bad
The Energy
From the moment George Thorogood stepped onto the stage, it was clear that age had done little to diminish his fiery passion for rock and roll. With his signature sunglasses and confident swagger, he commanded the stage, leading his band through a setlist packed with hits that spanned decades. The energy in the room was palpable, with the audience feeding off the band’s infectious enthusiasm.
Thorogood’s guitar work was as sharp as ever, delivering each riff with precision and flair. His gravelly vocals resonated throughout the venue, evoking cheers and applause from the crowd. The Destroyers, comprising Jeff Simon on drums, Billy Blough on bass, and Jim Suhler on guitar, provided a solid foundation, their tight rhythm section driving each song forward.
The band’s chemistry was evident, with each member playing off the others, creating a cohesive and dynamic performance. The seamless transitions between songs kept the momentum high, ensuring that there was never a dull moment.
Highlights & Crowd Moments
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“Who Do You Love?”: This classic track had the crowd singing along from the first note. Thorogood’s commanding presence and the band’s tight rhythm section brought the song to life, creating an electrifying atmosphere.
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“I Drink Alone”: The crowd responded enthusiastically to this fan favorite, singing along to every word. Thorogood’s playful banter between verses added a personal touch, making the performance feel intimate despite the large venue.
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“Bad to the Bone”: As the opening notes of this iconic song rang out, the crowd erupted into cheers. Thorogood’s swagger and the band’s powerful performance made this a standout moment of the night.
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“Move It on Over”: The band’s rendition of this Hank Williams classic showcased their versatility, blending country influences with their signature rock sound. The crowd swayed along, appreciating the nod to the genre’s roots.
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“Born to Be Bad”: The encore performance of this track was a fitting conclusion to the evening. The band’s energy reached a fever pitch, and the crowd responded with raucous applause, reluctant to let the night end.
The Vibe
The atmosphere inside Massey Hall was one of camaraderie and shared appreciation for rock and roll. Fans of all ages gathered to witness a legend in action, united by their love for George Thorogood’s music. The venue’s historic charm added to the experience, with its ornate architecture and intimate setting providing a perfect backdrop for the night’s performance.
The crowd was diverse, with longtime fans reminiscing about past concerts and newcomers experiencing the magic of a live George Thorogood show for the first time. The sense of community was palpable, with fans exchanging stories and enjoying the music together.
The sound quality was excellent, with each instrument and vocal coming through clearly. The lighting and visuals complemented the music, enhancing the overall experience without overshadowing the performance.
Tiny Quibbles
While the evening was largely flawless, there were a few minor technical issues. At times, the vocals were slightly overpowered by the instruments, making it difficult to catch every lyric. Additionally, the transitions between some songs felt a bit abrupt, though this did little to detract from the overall flow of the set.
The absence of an opening act was noticeable. While George Thorogood’s performance was more than enough to satisfy, the lack of a warm-up band left the audience with a bit more time to wait before the main event. However, this was a minor issue in an otherwise stellar evening.
Final Thoughts
George Thorogood & The Destroyers’ performance at Massey Hall was a testament to their enduring legacy in the rock and roll world. Despite being decades into their career, the band delivered a high-energy show that captivated the audience from start to finish. Their blend of blues, rock, and boogie was as fresh and exciting as ever, proving that they are still “bad to the bone.”
The night was a celebration of classic rock, with Thorogood and his bandmates showcasing their musical prowess and passion for performing. The crowd left the venue buzzing, grateful for the opportunity to witness a legend in action.
For those who have followed George Thorogood’s career, the Toronto show was a reminder of why he remains a beloved figure in the music world. For newcomers, it was an introduction to a timeless artist whose music continues to resonate with fans old and new.
As the final notes of “Born to Be Bad” echoed through the hall, the crowd erupted into applause, showing their appreciation for a night that was as entertaining as it was inspiring. George Thorogood & The Destroyers had once again proven that they are a force to be reckoned with in the world of rock and roll.