Photos* and review by DC (FB/IG @TheShowWithDC) for All Inclusive Radio, LLC
Saturday night in Noblesville was nothing short of a rock and roll revelation as Billy Idol's "It's A Nice Day To...Tour Again!" tour rolled into the Ruoff Music Center with special guest Joan Jett & The Blackhearts. The pairing of these two iconic rebels proved to be pure magic, delivering a night that reminded everyone why they've remained at the forefront of rock music for over four decades.
Joan Jett took the stage at 7:30 PM sharp, and from the opening chords of "Victim of Circumstance" into "Cherry Bomb", it was clear this wasn't going to be your typical opening act performance. The Rock & Roll Hall of Famer commanded the amphitheater with the same fierce energy that made her a legend. Her setlist was a masterclass in rock anthems, featuring crowd favorites like "I Love Rock 'N Roll," "Do You Wanna Touch Me (Oh Yeah)" and "I Hate Myself for Loving You."
Jett's voice remains as powerful and defiant as ever, cutting through the cool Indiana evening air with razor-sharp precision. The Blackhearts were tight and punchy, providing the perfect backdrop for Jett's magnetic stage presence. When she strapped on her signature white Gibson Melody Maker for "I Love Rock 'N Roll," the entire venue erupted in a singalong that could be heard for miles. Her set ended with a line that defines her: "I don't give a damn about my bad reputation".
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When Billy Idol strutted onto the stage around 9 PM, the crowd was already primed for greatness. The 69-year-old punk icon proved that age is just a number, delivering a performance that was every bit as electrifying as his MTV heyday. His trademark sneer intact and platinum blonde hair still perfectly tousled, Idol launched into one of his newer singles, "Still Dancing" to thunderous applause.
The setlist was a perfect blend of greatest hits, newer songs and deeper cuts that satisfied both casual fans and longtime devotees. "Mony Mony" sent the crowd into a frenzy, with every person in attendance shouting those words "Hey Hey What..." (you know how it goes). "Rebel Yell" was an absolute showstopper, with Idol's voice soaring over Steve Stevens' blistering guitar work – yes, the legendary guitarist was back in the fold, adding his distinctive sound to classics like "Eyes Without a Face" and "Flesh for Fantasy."
The production was perfectly calibrated for an outdoor venue. Massive LED screens flanked the stage, displaying vintage footage and psychedelic visuals that complemented rather than overwhelmed the performances. The lighting design was particularly effective during "Eyes Without a Face," bathing the stage in ethereal blues and whites that matched the song's haunting beauty.
"White Wedding" ended the night to thousands singing along.
Sound quality at the Ruoff was exceptional throughout the evening. Even from the lawn seats, every guitar solo was crystal clear, and both Idol's distinctive vocals and Jett's raspy delivery cut through the mix perfectly. The rhythm section was punchy and present, driving home the power of these classic rock anthems.
Steve Stevens deserves special mention for his guitar work throughout Idol's set. His solos were tasteful yet powerful, never overshadowing the songs but always adding that extra layer of excitement that makes live rock music special.
Billy Morrison's tribute to the "Prince Of Darkness" was touching before leading the crowd in a thunderous cheer of "Ozzy, Ozzy".
This was rock and roll at its finest – two legends proving they've still got it, delivering performances that honored their incredible catalogs while showing they're far from ready to slow down. For fans who lived through punk's initial explosion and new wave's MTV dominance, this was a perfect nostalgia trip. For younger fans, it was a masterclass in how rock stars are supposed to perform.
In an era of overly produced pop spectacles, Billy Idol and Joan Jett delivered something increasingly rare: authentic, no-frills rock and roll performed by artists who genuinely love what they do. The "It's A Nice Day To...Tour Again!" moniker couldn't be more accurate – after witnessing this show, fans will be hoping these two legends keep touring for years to come.
If this tour is coming to your city, don't miss it. This is the kind of show that reminds you why rock and roll will never die.
*NOTICE:
All photos were taken with iPhone from the general seat area, and not from any designated media/photograph area or with professional camera equipment.
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I was at the show last night and was impressed with Billy Idol. First time seeing him in concert and he has a top notch backing band. Coer version of Stones "Gimme Shelter" was a highlight. This was the fourth time over a 40 years span that I have seen Joan Jett. It was not her "A" game and felt the RNR HOFer had an off night.