What milestone is Papa Roach celebrating with their current tour? What iconic track does the band conclude their set with? How does frontman Jacoby Shaddix express his feelings towards the audience in Los Angeles? In what way does Shaddix connect his band’s origins to their performance? What tribute does Rise Against’s frontman, Tim McIlrath, pay during their set?
Papa Roach continues to celebrate the 25th anniversary of its breakthrough album, Infest, with a North American tour that hit Los Angeles this weekend.
As part of its Rise of the Roach tour, the venerable rock band performed at the Kia Forum in the L.A. area on Friday, with stalwart punk outfits Rise Against and Underoath as support. In honor of Infest’s release on April 25, 2000, Papa Roach’s set included such tracks from that album as “Broken Home” and lead single “Last Resort,” which has become a signature tune for the band and was the show’s final number. The group also played singles “Scars,” “…To Be Loved” and recent release “Even If It Kills Me.”
“Some people say that everybody in L.A. is jaded,” frontman Jacoby Shaddix told the crowd from the stage. “I don’t fucking believe it. I see you got soul in this motherfucker. You got heart in this motherfucker. You got passion in this motherfucker.”
Before launching into a cover of Tupac’s “California Love,” Shaddix described his band’s roots in the state. “We come from a small town up north, a small town called Vacaville,” he shared. “We came out the fucking bushes, you know what I’m saying? [In] 1993, said, ‘We want to start a fucking band.’ Now we’re traveling the fucking world, living the dream. Thank you, guys, for living in our dream tonight.”
Papa Roach’s performance of the song “Forever” incorporated a rendition of Linkin Park‘s “In the End,” followed by Shaddix recalling having toured with the band that got its start in Southern California. According to Shaddix, he and late Linkin Park singer Chester Bennington bonded during the 2001 Ozzfest over their mutual excitement to start a family, with both musicians becoming first-time fathers in the following year.
“It’s a celebration of life right here tonight,” Shaddix continued. “We’re gonna fuckin’ get down with some good vibes in this motherfucker.”
Toward the end of the set, Shaddix noted that it has been “25 years [of] pouring my heart into this music, and you guys are making me feel like I am not alone, so I am grateful for every last one of y’all here tonight. We all stand here, individually and collectively, as people who are willing to stand up and fight the good fight.”
Prior to Papa Roach, Rise Against performed a set that included hits “Give It All,” “Ready to Fall” and “Savior.” In keeping with his progressive views, frontman Tim McIlrath’s onstage comments included a shout-out to the people of Ukraine and a tribute to those impacted by L.A.’s recent wildfires and other disasters amid climate change.
“We all come from somewhere,” McIlrath said in introducing the song “Prayer of the Refugee.” He added, “Not a single one of us is illegal.”
Papa Roach Celebrates 25th Anniversary with L.A. Rock Concert: A Night to Remember
In an era when nostalgia reigns supreme, few bands can claim the same level of enduring impact and innovation as Papa Roach. This year, the iconic rock band celebrated a remarkable milestone—its 25th anniversary—by hosting a sensational concert in Los Angeles that left fans and music enthusiasts buzzing with excitement. The event was not just a celebration of their extensive catalog, but also a testament to their evolution as artists and their unwavering connection with the fanbase.
When Papa Roach first burst onto the scene in the late ’90s, they were known for their unique blend of rock, nu-metal, and alternative elements, which resonated with a generation grappling with angst and identity. With their debut album, "Infest," featuring hits like "Last Resort," they quickly ascended to the forefront of the music scene. Over the years, the band’s commitment to pushing boundaries while staying true to their core ethos has garnered them a dedicated following and a legacy that remains relevant today.
The Los Angeles concert was held at the iconic Hollywood Palladium—a venue steeped in musical history that has seen countless legendary performances. As the doors opened, a palpable sense of anticipation filled the air. Fans, many of whom had been following the band since their inception, donned vintage Papa Roach tees, eagerly awaiting the chance to witness their idols rock the stage in a special commemorative event.
As the lights dimmed and the opening notes of “Last Resort” rang out, the crowd erupted, singing along in perfect harmony with frontman Jacoby Shaddix. The energy was electric, a vivid testament to the band’s ability to connect through shared experiences and emotion. Shaddix, with his trademark charisma and raw vocal power, led the way through a setlist that was a retrospective of their 25-year journey. From early favorites to tracks from their latest albums, every song was met with cheers and nostalgia.
Throughout the concert, the band showcased not only their classic hits but also some deeper cuts that fans cherished. Songs like "Scars" and "Getting Away with Murder" resonated with the audience, showcasing Papa Roach’s ability to articulate complex emotions and experiences—whether it’s about heartbreak, mental health, or overcoming adversity. Shaddix shared anecdotes and reflections on the band’s journey, making the evening intimate and personal.
One of the highlights of the night was a surprise guest appearance from fellow rock musician and collaborator, Machine Gun Kelly. The pairing brought a fresh twist to the night as the duo performed their recent collaboration, enchanting the crowd with their onstage chemistry. This surprise moment exemplified Papa Roach’s commitment to collaboration and evolution—a concept that has remained at the forefront of their artistic philosophy.
As the night progressed, the atmosphere turned celebratory, embodying not just the music but the shared memories and moments between the band and their fans over the years. In heartfelt speeches, both Shaddix and guitarist Jerry Horton reflected on their journey as a band since their humble beginnings in Vacaville, California. The camaraderie and mutual respect among the band members were evident, demonstrating a deep understanding of each other’s contributions and a shared commitment to their craft.
Moreover, the concert was filled with visual spectacles. The stage was adorned with grand lighting, pyrotechnics, and video backdrops showcasing archival footage from the band’s past performances. This combination not only captivated the audience but also served as a poignant reminder of how far they have come, inviting fans to relish in their rich history while simultaneously celebrating their present.
For many attendees, the concert was more than just a show—it was a reunion. Friends met friends, sharing stories of concerts past and experiences tied to the band’s music. The palpable sense of community added an extra layer of emotion to the evening. Fans exchanged laughter and tears, united by the powerful soundtracks of their lives.
As the final encore approached, Shaddix took a moment to thank the fans for their unwavering support throughout the years. The heartfelt message resonated with everyone in attendance, each person recognizing their role in the band’s journey. The last song of the evening, “Born for Greatness,” served as a powerful anthem encouraging perseverance and self-empowerment—ultimately encapsulating what Papa Roach has always stood for.
Leaving the Hollywood Palladium that night, fans carried with them not just the memory of an incredible concert, but also the reassurance that Papa Roach continues to be a vital force in rock music. As they embark on the next chapter of their career, there is little doubt that the band will continue to inspire, challenge, and resonate with audiences across generations, solidifying their place in rock history for years to come. Cheers to another 25 years!
Papa Roach recently marked their 25th anniversary with a memorable rock concert in Los Angeles, showcasing their enduring appeal and significant contributions to the music scene. Fans gathered to celebrate the band’s journey, enjoying a powerful setlist that included some of their most iconic tracks. The concert not only highlighted their evolution over the years but also underscored the strong connection they have with their audience.
Throughout the night, the energy was palpable as the band delivered both classic hits and newer material, demonstrating their ability to adapt while staying true to their roots. Special guests and surprise performances added to the excitement, making the event a true celebration of rock music. As they look to the future, Papa Roach continues to inspire and resonate with fans old and new, solidifying their legacy in the industry.