Queen and Adam Lambert will headline the opening night of Rock In Rio’s 30th anniversary series on Friday, September 18.
The event marks the band’s return after opening the inaugural event in 1985 with original lead singer Freddie Mercury.
“30 years ago, Queen performed in front of 250,000 people who fell in love with the band, and it became one of the most iconic moments of Rock in Rio,” says Rock in Rio President and Founder Roberto Medina. “I am positive that the moments from 30 years ago will be rejuvenated and rejoiced with Queen + Adam Lambert, making it again a moment no one will ever forget."
Queen’s opening night January 11, 1985 at Rio’s custom built City of Rock exploded the record books, drawing an audience of over 250,000. The band’s second appearance on January 18, brought their total Rock in Rio audience beyond 500,000. Televised to over 60 countries across the world, Queen’s shows were watched by nearly 200 million people. Queen albums occupied all top ten places in the Brazilian album chart and “Love of My Life” became a new Brazilian anthem.
“We’re Back! Rockin’ in Rio!,” says guitarist Brian May. “Can’t wait! See ya there, guys!!”
"How great to be coming back to Rio to rock you even harder than before,” adds drummer Roger Taylor.
"I'm so excited to be joining Queen at Rock in Rio!” says Lambert. “This will be a triumphant return for them, and my first time in South America!"
The full Rock in Rio 30 Years festival runs for seven nights over two weekends - September 18,19 and 20 and September 24, 25, 26 and 27. Other artists already announced to appear include Katy Perry, System of a Down, Slipknot, A-Ha, Queens of the Stone Age, Faith No More, Hollywood Vampires, Metallica and John Legend.
Queen were named the No. 8 Rock News Artist Of The Year and Queen and Adam Lambert delivered the No. 9 Rock News Story Of The Year as part of the 5th annual hennemusic Rock News Awards.
See also:
VIDEO: Stars join Jimmy Fallon for Queen classic following Super Bowl
VIDEO: Queen and Adam Lambert backstage tour
VIDEO: Queen and Adam Lambert launch European tour
Rock News Artist Of The Year No. 8: QUEEN
Rock News Story Of The Year No. 9: QUEEN AND ADAM LAMBERT
Search Queen at hennemusic
