Clearwater, Fl. (June 2nd, 2024)
The anticipation was electric as fans packed into the Capitol Theatre in Clearwater, FL, for what promised to be a historic night: the final tour of rock icons Mr. Big. With the announcement that this would be their farewell tour, every date became a sell-out event, as fans clamored for one last chance to witness their beloved band live and in person.
As the lights dimmed and the crowd roared in anticipation, Mr. Big took the stage to a wildly cheering packed house, kicking off the night with the explosive energy of “Addicted to That Rush.” From the opening chords, it was clear that this would be a night to remember.
The band wasted no time diving into their catalog of hits, delivering powerhouse performances of “Take Cover” and “The Price You Gotta Pay” before launching into their seminal album “Lean into It” in its entirety. Each track from the album was met with enthusiastic cheers and as well as the crowd singing along note for note. Just a quick glance into the crowd and it was easy to see that every fans was reveling in the opportunity to hear these beloved classics performed live one last time.
Guitarist Paul Gilbert and bassist Billy Sheehan stole the show with their jaw-dropping solos, each one more blistering than the last. Their virtuosic performances left the audience in awe of their technical prowess and musical mastery, as they effortlessly navigated the intricate melodies and lightning-fast riffs that have become synonymous with the Mr. Big sound.
But the surprises didn’t end there. As the night reached its climax, Mr. Big treated fans to a series of unforgettable covers, paying homage to some of their biggest influences. From the explosive energy of Talas’ “Shy Boy” to the soulful groove of The Olympics’ “Good Lovin’,” each song was a testament to the band’s diverse musical tastes and impeccable musicianship.
The highlight of the evening came during “Good Lovin’,” as Eric Martin traded his microphone for a bass guitar, Billy Sheehan took over lead vocals, Paul Gilbert jumped behind the drum kit, and Nick D’Virgilio picked up the guitar. Not only did this showcase the incredible musical talents of each member, but it was also a fitting tribute to the band’s camaraderie and shared love of music, as they united to deliver a performance that will be remembered long after the final note has faded.
As the night drew to a close with a rousing rendition of The Who’s “Baba O’Riley,” the crowd erupted in applause and cheers, knowing that they had witnessed something truly special. Mr. Big’s Big Finish Tour may have come to an end, but the memories of their unforgettable performance at the Capitol Theatre will live on in the hearts of fans for years to come.
Mr. Big:
The Nancy And David Bilheimer Capitol Theatre: