The 20th century witnessed the rise of iconic musicians who not only shaped the music industry but also set a standard for global touring. Artists like Michael Jackson, Ozzy Osbourne, and numerous boy bands captured the essence of their eras, establishing vast fan followings. Entering the 21st century in 2001, the music landscape evolved, presenting emerging talents with high expectations while still leaving room for established legends to prove their enduring appeal.
Fans who enjoyed concerts by legends such as The Rolling Stones in the 1980s were thrilled to see the band maintain their position as top-selling acts into the 2000s. Alongside them, fresh talents like Ed Sheeran and Harry Styles emerged, showcasing their consistent success in ticket sales. However, with evolving times, ticket prices have dramatically increased, which paved the way for mega-stars like Taylor Swift to achieve unprecedented financial success from their tours, signaling a new era of entertainment akin to that of their predecessors. Below is a ranking of the 10 most memorable tours of the 21st century.
10
The Police Reunion Tour (2007-2008)
The Police
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=umD3cSjxArw
The Police ruled the rock scene from 1977 to 1983, producing a string of hits including “Every Breath You Take”and “Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic.”Despite releasing only five albums, they achieved significant acclaim, earning Platinum certifications for each. Their hiatus was self-imposed, leading to a long wait for fans hoping for a reunion.
Following their induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2003, fans were elated when The Police announced a reunion tour in 2007. Over a span of more than a year, they toured globally, culminating their journey at Madison Square Garden in August 2008. Although no further reunions have been announced, this tour cemented their legacy and delighted a generation of fans.
9
WorldWired Tour (2016-2019)
Metallica
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mJje9Xpp5GE
Metallica’s ability to fill arenas repeatedly underscores their powerful musical legacy and the loyalty of their fan base. During the 2010s, their WorldWired Tour stood out as one of the highest-grossing tours, spanning nearly three years and showcasing the band’s dedication to live performance. Such success is a testament to their enduring influence and the possibility of even greater accomplishments ahead.
8
Vertigo Tour (2005-2006)
U2
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DxQ-1OaBHpo
Emerging in 1976, U2 quickly made their mark with tours like The Joshua Tree Tour in the 1980s, and continued their success with subsequent Top 10 tours in the 1990s. Their Vertigo Tour, which launched in 2005, became their most commercially successful to date. U2’s live performance skills are unparalleled, and this tour not only reinforced their reputation but also demonstrated their unwavering drive to evolve and innovate.
7
Not In This Lifetime… Tour (2016-2019)
Guns N’ Roses
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=muZbNjnr-qI
Guns N’ Roses captured audience attention since their inception, achieving fame with their remarkable debut album. After internal strife ended their original lineup, fans waited decades for a reunion. The band came together in 2016, launching a tour that would resonate across the globe. The resounding success of this tour revitalized the rock genre, paving the way for future reunions in the industry.
6
Music Of The Spheres World Tour (2022-2025)
Coldplay
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fpn1imb9qZg
As Coldplay approached worldwide fame, they faced high expectations akin to legendary bands. With chart-toppers like “Yellow”and “Paradise,”they launched the Head Full of Dreams Tour, marking their presence in the Top 10 tours of the 2010s. Their return with the Music Of The Spheres World Tour in 2022 further solidified their status, bringing in over one billion dollars in revenue—a historic achievement solidifying their place among touring giants.
5
Love On Tour (2021-2023)
Harry Styles
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1go53lCwNxQ
Harry Styles transitioned from the boy band One Direction to an impactful solo career. Each of his three solo albums achieved platinum status, bolstering his reputation as a leading solo act. His Love On Tour, which encompassed multiple venues and cities over 22 months, showcased his versatility and charisma, placing him among the elite artists alongside legends like Elton John.
4
÷ Tour (2017-2019)
Ed Sheeran
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-1KzQHQMIx0
Ed Sheeran’s rise to fame as a solo artist is notable, particularly in a competitive landscape featuring top stars like Beyoncé. His ÷ Tour emerged as the highest-grossing tour of the decade, surpassing even legendary performers, further solidifying his place in music history. With subsequent successes, Sheeran’s momentum shows no signs of waning, suggesting his enduring legacy will remain relevant for years to come.
3
A Bigger Bang Tour (2005-2007)
The Rolling Stones
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=132HVOY98fU
With a career spanning over 2,000 live performances, The Rolling Stones are undeniably one of the most iconic music acts ever. Their A Bigger Bang Tour, commencing in 2005, marked yet another high in their illustrious career, generating impressive ticket sales and furthering their legacy. Documenting their journey, they showcased their undeniable influence and the abiding appeal of classic rock.
2
Farewell Yellow Brick Road (2018-2023)
Elton John
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XWFjoZ41Mm8
Elton John’s 49 tours reflect an extraordinary career, but his Farewell Yellow Brick Road Tour, which commenced in 2018, focused on closure and legacy. With over 300 performances, the tour raised nearly one billion dollars, underscoring John’s significance in modern music. Even as he winds down his touring career, he continues to create new music, hinting at potential future performances, thus ensuring his artistry endures.
1
The Eras Tour (2023-2024)
Taylor Swift
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sl6en1NPTYM
In discussions of contemporary music legends, Taylor Swift is undeniably a leading figure. Her latest venture, The Eras Tour, signifies the culmination of her career and creativity, generating over two billion dollars, making it the highest-grossing tour in history. Spanning five continents and featuring 143 performances, it showcased her expansive discography. Tickets became a coveted item, proving Swift’s enormous influence. As fans speculate about her next move, there is no doubt she will continue to intrigue and delight audiences worldwide.