Kings of Leon returned to Houston after a long break from touring, delivering an electrifying performance at the Toyota Center on August 16, 2024, as the second stop on their “Can We Please Have Fun” world tour. Finding a graceful way for a rock and roll band to age is notoriously difficult. However, Kings of Leon—a seasoned Nashville group composed of three brothers and their cousin from the musical Followill family—seem to be doing it remarkably well.
The night kicked off with Phantogram, whose high-energy set perfectly set the stage for what was to come. Their synth-heavy beats and captivating visuals were the perfect prelude, getting the crowd amped up for the main act. Kings of Leon took the stage to a packed arena, opening with “Ballerina Radio,” which immediately set the tone for the evening—a mix of old favorites and new tracks that showcased the band’s evolution over the years.
The setlist was a well-curated journey through their extensive catalog, featuring hits like “Sex on Fire,” which had the entire arena on their feet, and rarities like “True Love Way,” which they hadn’t performed in over a decade. The band’s energy was palpable as they moved seamlessly from the anthemic “Manhattan” to the raw and powerful “Pyro.”
Lead singer Caleb Followill’s gritty vocals, paired with the band’s tight instrumentation, made for an unforgettable show. Highlights included a heartfelt performance of “Revelry” and a soaring rendition of “Beautiful War,” which had the crowd swaying and holding up their phones to capture the moment.
Kings of Leon didn’t just play their songs—they lived them on stage, with Caleb pouring emotion into every lyric and the band backing him with flawless musicianship. The evening closed with a trio of encore tracks: “Rainbow Ball,” “Knocked Up,” and the ever-popular “Use Somebody,” leaving the audience buzzing with the energy of the night.
For longtime fans and newcomers alike, Kings of Leon delivered a show that celebrated their past while nodding to their future. Houston will surely be eagerly awaiting their return!
About Author
