News Summary
The 2025 RiverBeat Music Festival featured The Killers’ captivating performance on May 3, their first in Memphis since 2019. The band mesmerized fans with a 70-minute set filled with classic hits while paying homage to local music heritage, promising an unforgettable night for attendees.
Memphis – The 2025 RiverBeat Music Festival took place from May 2 to May 4 at Tom Lee Park, and the second day featured the widely anticipated performance of multiplatinum rock band The Killers on May 3. This marked the band’s first performance in Memphis since 2019, creating a buzz among local fans.
The Killers, comprised of singer Brandon Flowers, guitarist Dave Keuning, bassist Mark Stoermer, and drummer Ronnie Vannucci, delivered an engaging 70-minute set that perfectly blended rock and pop, captivating the audience from start to finish. Their setlist was tailored for the Memphis crowd and included fan favorites such as โSomebody Told Me,โ โJenny Was a Friend of Mine,โ โWhen We Were Young,โ โSmile Like You Mean It,โ and โShot at Night.โ
Beginning with the classical intro “Also sprach Zarathustra” by Richard Strauss, an iconic piece often associated with Elvis Presley, the performance paid homage to the local music heritage. Brandon Flowers added a local touch by donning a turquoise suit, which enhanced the festive atmosphere. The Killers made the night even more memorable by surprising attendees with a cover of Jerry Lee Lewis’ “Great Balls of Fire,” a classic recorded just miles from where the festival took place at Sun Records.
The concert kicked off with Flowers humorously introducing himself and embodying the role of the evening’s host. He actively engaged with the audience, recognizing their presence and excitement throughout the performance. This interactive approach showcased the band’s understanding of the cultural importance of live rock music in today’s entertainment landscape.
Festival Highlights
Other noteworthy performances during the festival included artists such as Benson Boone and DJ Jazzy Jeff, who performed on the final day, along with Khruangbin. The festival opened on May 2 with a remarkable performance by hip-hop icon Missy Elliott, whose set featured a theatrical stage production that captivated fans.
The festival also spotlighted the powerful performances of renowned hip-hop artists on its first night. Busta Rhymes energized the crowd with a high-energy set lasting 40 minutes, while Ludacris celebrated his 25-year career with an impressive 20-song repertoire, including a mix of his major hits and collaborations.
A Memorable Conclusion
As the festival drew to a close, anticipation built for Anderson .Paakโs expected finale, highlighting the diverse lineup designed to attract a variety of musical tastes across genres. Over the course of its three days, the RiverBeat Music Festival showcased a robust lineup and attracted large crowds, evolving into a significant event in Memphis’s cultural calendar.
Overall, The Killers’ performance was a highlight of the second day of the festival, reinforcing the power of live music to bond communities and celebrate local culture. The RiverBeat Music Festival continues to grow in stature, solidifying Memphis as a key destination for music lovers.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Additional Resources
- The Commercial Appeal: The Killers at RiverBeat Music Festival
- FOX13 Memphis: RiverBeat Music Festival Boosts Local Businesses
- Daily Memphian: Memphis RiverBeat Music Festival Fashion
- Encyclopedia Britannica: RiverBeat Music Festival
- The Commercial Appeal: Photos from RiverBeat Music Festival
Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
The MEMPHIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMemphis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Memphis, Shelby County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the areaโwith deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Beale Street Music Festival, Elvis Week, and Memphis in May International Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Memphis Chamber and the Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and music that power the local economy such as FedEx, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and AutoZone. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
