Flashback to November 17
Entertainment History
1996
The Prince’s Trust concert is held in Hyde Park, London, and is attended by 150,000 people. Rock group The Who headlines the event in their first performance since 1989.
Read moreOn June 29, 1996, a historic event took place in Hyde Park, London. The Prince’s Trust concert attracted a staggering 150,000 people who gathered to witness the long-awaited comeback performance of legendary rock group, The Who. It was a night filled with excitement and nostalgia as fans were treated to an unforgettable show.
The Prince’s Trust concert is an annual event organized by The Prince’s Trust, a charity founded by Prince Charles in 1976. The concert aims to raise funds and awareness for the organization’s work in supporting young people in the UK. Over the years, it has become a highly anticipated event in the music calendar, featuring performances by some of the biggest names in the industry.
The 1996 edition of the concert was extra special as it marked The Who’s first performance since 1989. The band, known for their high-energy shows and iconic hits, had taken a hiatus following the tragic death of their drummer, Keith Moon, in 1978. Fans had eagerly awaited their return, and the Prince’s Trust concert provided the perfect platform for them to make their comeback.
As the sun began to set over Hyde Park, anticipation filled the air. The crowd, consisting of die-hard fans and curious onlookers, had gathered from all corners of the country to witness this monumental event. The atmosphere was electric, with excitement and anticipation palpable among the crowd.
Finally, the moment arrived. The stage was set, and The Who took their positions. Energized by the roaring crowd, the band burst into their opening song with an energy that defied their years. Pete Townshend’s iconic guitar riffs, Roger Daltrey’s powerful vocals, and John Entwistle’s thunderous bass lines immediately transported the crowd back to the heyday of rock ‘n’ roll.
The setlist was a carefully curated selection of The Who’s greatest hits, spanning their entire career. Classics such as “Pinball Wizard,” “Baba O’Riley,” and “My Generation” had the audience singing along at the top of their lungs. Each song was met with thunderous applause, demonstrating the enduring appeal of The Who’s music.
Aside from their own material, The Who also treated the crowd to a few surprises. Special guests joined them on stage, adding an extra layer of excitement to the show. Rock legends like Paul Weller, Paul McCartney, and Noel Gallagher all made appearances, creating unforgettable moments and collaborations.
As the night wore on, the energy in the park reached an all-time high. The crowd’s enthusiasm never wavered, and The Who continued to deliver an electrifying performance. The band’s passion and love for their craft were evident, and their connection with the crowd was undeniable.
The Prince’s Trust concert in Hyde Park on June 29, 1996, will forever be etched in the memories of those lucky enough to attend. It was a night of music, unity, and celebration. Seeing The Who back on stage after an extended hiatus was a triumphant moment, and their performance showcased why they are regarded as one of the greatest rock bands of all time.
The event not only served as a reminder of The Who’s undeniable talent and influence but also raised significant funds for The Prince’s Trust. By attending the concert, the 150,000 strong crowd contributed to the important work the charity does in supporting young people across the UK.
the Prince’s Trust concert in Hyde Park in 1996 was a truly momentous event. The Who’s long-awaited return to the stage captivated the audience and proved why they are considered rock legends. This unforgettable night of music and philanthropy showcased the power of live performances to transcend time and bring people together in celebration.
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