On Sunday, September 21, 2025, I headed south to Mountain View, California, with the Shoreline Amphitheater as my destination. The event featured The Who, with Candlebox as the supporting act for The Song Is Over North American Farewell Tour. This show was on my bucket list, and honestly, I never thought I would get the chance to see it. However, I did, and it was amazing!
Candlebox was the opening act, and they kicked off the show with “Arrow”. The band came out swinging, delivering that song like they were on a mission. Their second song, “Stand”, was a crowd favorite, starting with a gnarly guitar riff that gave it a mellower yet powerful sound. The audience was clearly excited, as evidenced by their enthusiastic applause.
When they played “Change”, it felt like the ’90s all over again. This 1993 hit really energized the band, and it was clear they were on fire with that performance—metaphorically speaking, of course. They followed up with “Blossom”, “Simple Lessons”, and “Happy Pills”, before diving into “Cover Me.” That track was exceptional and resonated well with the crowd.
Next came “Elegante”, which held a special place in the set. The lyrics were remarkable, and the music complemented them beautifully, showcasing the band’s depth. Following that, they played “Far Behind”, pouring their heart and soul into the performance.
As the concert approached its conclusion, they prepared for their final song, “You”. They played it with such intensity that it felt like it could be their last performance. While it wasn’t their final show, they certainly made it feel like it was. The band delivered an incredible rendition, and before we knew it, the song came to an end. Candlebox truly laid down some perfect music for us, and we were proud to have experienced their performance.
Follow Candlebox band members on social media
Kevin Martin – lead vocals, guitar
Adam Kury – bass, backing vocals, acoustic guitar
Peter Klett – lead guitar, backing vocals
Island Styles – rhythm guitars, backing vocals
BJ Kerwin – drums
Setlist
1). Arrow
2). Stand
3). Change
4). Blossom
5). Simple Lessons
6). Happy Pills
7). Cover Me
8). Elegante
9). Far Behind
10). You
When The Who hit the stage, everyone was on their feet. They opened with “I Can’t Explain”, and the crowd went wild with excitement. The song was iconic, but just seeing them live was amazing. Next was “Substitute”. The band’s performance was top-notch, and it was evident that Roger and Pete were like two peas in a pod as they played together. After more than 60 years of making music, it’s no surprise they were so in sync.
The sound and the lights were perfect. As they entered their third song, “Who Are You”, they dominated their set. For the next two songs, “I Can See for Miles” and “Long Live Rock”, they played their hits, which felt like the greatest experience. They were on point as they moved into “Pinball Wizard”, and the crowd was loving every minute. You could tell which songs were the favorites of those around me, and this one was a definite highlight.
The transitions and the rock ‘n’ roll energy were amazing. From there, they seamlessly segued into “See Me Feel Me”, which had everyone singing and clapping along. It truly was an incredible event. They followed that up with “Another Tricky Day”, showcasing solid guitar, drum, and vocal performances. The vocals were particularly powerful as they rocked through the song.
Next was “Behind Blue Eyes”, a crowd favorite that brought several people to tears with its emotional depth. As they rolled through it, the connection was palpable, and everyone sang along. “Eminence Front” came next, delivering another powerful performance that resonated deeply with the audience.
Then they surprised us with “My Generation”, a song they hadn’t performed in a long time because they thought it had aged out of style. However, it still sounded excellent, filled with emotion. They followed with “Cry If You Want”, a heartfelt tune that jammed along nicely.
“You Better You Bet” was another highlight, rocking the audience with enthusiasm. When they started “Going Mobile”, Simon’s magical vocals made the experience even more special. The next four songs were particularly memorable for me, all from the Quadrophenia album, which is one of my all-time favorites. “The Real Me”, “I’m One”, and “5:15” were played splendidly, showcasing power, love, and deep emotion.
Then they performed “Love Reign O’er Me”, which nearly brought tears to my eyes; it was both touching and powerful. “Won’t Get Fooled Again” followed, engaging the crowd as they cranked it up.
They then jumped into “Baba O’Riley”, a stunning performance that took it to another level, especially with Katie Jacoby joining them on the violin. Her addition brought the song to life, creating an explosive conclusion. After that, “The Song Is Over” would have made an awesome end to the set, but when the band left, they left Pete and Roger on stage alone.
Pete grabbed his acoustic guitar, and they started “Tea & Theatre”. This incredible acoustic version showcased why they are still together after more than 60 years. The emotional depth was palpable as they continued. They then bid us goodnight and left the stage.
We were all thoroughly engrossed in the moment, and I think that feeling lasted for days—definitely for me!
Follow The Who band members on social media
Roger Daltrey – lead and backing vocals, rhythm guitar, harmonica
Pete Townshend – Lead and Rhythm guitar, backing and lead vocals
Jody Linscott – percussion
Simon Townshend – guitar, vocals, mandolin
Loren Gold – keyboards, backing vocals
Scott Devours – drums, percussion
Jon Button – bass
John Hogg – backing vocals, percussion
Setlist
1). I Can’t Explain
2). Substitute
3). Who Are You
4). I Can See for Miles
5). Long Live Rock
6). Pinball Wizard
7). See Me, Feel Me
8). Another Tricky Day
9). Behind Blue Eyes
10). Eminence Front
11). My Generation
12). Cry If You Want
13). You Better You Bet
14). Going Mobile (Simon Townshend on vocals)
15). The Real Me
16). I’m One
17). 5:15
18). Love, Reign O’er Me
19). Won’t Get Fooled Again
20). Baba O’Riley (With Katie Jacoby on violin)
21). The Song Is Over
22). Tea & Theatre (Acoustic, Roger and Pete only)
Follow Candlebox on social media
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