The first of two concerts in London. This is homecoming and you could feel it!!! The atmosphere among the fans was great. Surrounding the stadium were lots of foodtrucks and mobile bars. It was hot out there, but we got some nice company. The rush to the pit was harsh, but I managed to grab a rail and secure the perfect spot for a photographer.
Liam Gallagher opened for the Stones. He came on stage rather late, but played a solid set. It was the anniversary of the disaster at the Ariana Grande concert in Manchester. Liam played a song as tribute to the victims, goosebumps... and the Stones had yet to hit the stage.
Mixing up the setlist
They opened with 'Street fighting man' which was surprising, but it's a good choice. Powerful opening song, actual theme! Then on with the usual three, followed by only a single blues song 'Ride 'm on down'.
On to the songvote: 'Under my thumb' came out as the winner. It was nice, neat version of it. Then the big surprise of the evening. They played 'Fool to cry'. Before the start of the tour I told Ron this was one of the songs I really wanted to hear live, but he doubted it would be played. There it was! The daughter on his knee, now a full grown woman, watching proudly from behind Charlie's drums. It was an outstanding long version with a tremendous falsetto by Mick. Magical moment in London! They worked towards the band introductions with the usual two.
Banter on stage
What an amusing scene during the band introduction. Mick forgot to mention Darryl and introduced Ronnie instead. We got to witness some lovely moments between the three when Darryl was eventually introduced. Keith played an outstanding set with 'Before they make me run' and the return of 'Slipping away'. Good signing, great guitar playing. You could see the whole band was relaxed, laughing and enjoying themselves. Coming home obviously made them happy!
The warhorses section started of with a fierce and energetic version of 'Sympathy for the devil'. It works so much better in the dark. Then on with the usual songs. They were all performed very well. The band was in great form. The last songs are always the same, but it's understandable as they are well-known with a wider public. I would prefer if they played shorter versions of the songs. 'Miss you' and 'Midnight Rambler' are really long. A little shorter and we might have a 21 numbers setlist, with some more rarities.