In the words of Duran Duran themselves, “Who do you need, who do you love when you come undone?” This question hung in the air like a promise as the iconic band took the stage at Toronto’s Scotiabank Arena on a night that would surely be remembered by fans old and new. The “Future Past Tour 2023” was in full swing, and it was a night of nostalgia, surprises, and the unmistakable essence of Duran Duran.
With their latest album, aptly titled “Future Past,” Duran Duran aimed to bridge the gap between their roots and the ever-evolving musical landscape. As one of the biggest bands of the 1980s, the anticipation was clear, and the venue was packed to capacity, with fans traveling from across Canada, including Edmonton, Quebec, and Sudbury, to witness the spectacle.
The stage was an intricate web of music and visuals. Simon Le Bon stood center stage, his magnetic presence immediately captivating the audience. To his right was John Taylor, bass guitar in hand, exuding timeless coolness. Roger Taylor and Nick Rhodes each had their own drum and keyboard stations on elevated risers flanking the stage. Dominic Brown handled guitar duties stage left, while two backup singers added depth and harmony to the sonic tapestry.
The show began with Duran Duran emerging from the fog atop a central staircase on the stage. Gigantic screens on either side of them and a video screen behind the stairs created a mesmerizing visual backdrop that enhanced the experience.
The nearly two-hour performance was a masterclass in musical nostalgia, featuring a setlist that delved deep into their catalog of hits. Classics like “Hungry Like the Wolf,” “A View to a Kill,” “The Wild Boys,” and “Notorious” had the crowd singing along at the top of their lungs.
One of the evening’s standout moments was when Simon dedicated “Ordinary World” to the people of Ukraine, a heartfelt gesture that resonated deeply with the audience. Another unforgettable surprise was when Canadian singer Kiesza joined Simon Le Bon on stage for a stunning rendition of “Come Undone.”
During “Save a Prayer,” Simon encouraged the audience to light up the arena with their phones, transforming Scotiabank Arena into Duran Duran’s Milkyway galaxy. With an acoustic guitar in hand, he delivered an intimate and moving performance of this beloved song.
Duran Duran’s encore featured the iconic “Rio,” a fitting conclusion to an evening filled with hits and memories. While the entire setlist was a treasure trove of classics, personal favorites included “Come Undone,” “Ordinary World,” and “Save a Prayer.”
As the final notes of “Rio” faded into the night, fans echoed their love and appreciation for the band. Comments like “Absolutely loved every second,” “They were so awesome and so amazing,” and “Can’t wait to see them again soon!” filled the air, a testament to Duran Duran’s enduring appeal.
For me personally, it was an epic night, one of the best Duran Duran shows I’ve ever experienced. The energy, the music, and the connection between the band and the audience were truly special. I’m already counting down the days until they return to Toronto.
But the excitement doesn’t end there. Duran Duran announced a new album, “Danse Macabre,” scheduled for release on October 27, 2023. The singles released so far, including the title tracks “Danse Macabre” and “Black Moonlight,” promise a bright future that pays homage to their past.
In the galaxy of music, Duran Duran remains a shining star, and their “Future Past Tour 2023” was a celestial journey through time that left everyone longing for more.
The Setlist is down below and don’t forget to leave a comment 🙂
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“Duran Duran’s Spectacular Performance of ‘Ordinary World’ in Toronto 2023 – Timeless Music at its Best!”
I’m Drew, the founder and editor of Front of the Stage. I have a strong love for music and photography, which started at a very young age. There’s just something I love about experiencing live music and capturing memories that will last a lifetime, and that’s how Front of the Stage came to be.
Amazing photos! It’s such a pleasure to relive the show through your review. I, too, eagerly await the next chance to see Duran Duran live. In the meantime, photos, videos, and memories will keep me/us going! Thank you, Drew, for sharing this.