A couple of weeks ago, my friend asked me if I wanted to go to a Conan Gray concert. My friend is super into Conan Gray, and because of that, I’ve heard so much of him when we listen to music together. We ended up not going because of a cross-country race, but it got me thinking. 

So I went home and pulled up Apple Music and went through every single artist I have downloaded, and if they have any upcoming tours. And in total, I found two. 

The biggest problem is that all of these bands are touring firstly, other countries, or secondly, bigger cities. Pittsburgh is just not on their primary list. 

The second problem is that 90% of the people in the bands on my list are either dying or dead. Many of the official websites just say, “No upcoming tour dates. Join the mailing list.” And of course, I joined all of the mailing lists. 

This led me to do some research. In the 1900s, there were so many famous musicians’ deaths that it’s hard to keep count. Some really big notable ones are: Aretha Franklin, John Lennon, Elvis, Michael Jackson, two Beatles, and Bob Marley. But the list goes on and on as the years pass: Jimi Hendrix, Jim Morrison, David Bowie, Tom Petty, Jeff Buckley, Christine McVie, and so on. 

Upon googling, I possibly found something. Amongst no Blondie tours, no Heart, no Bruce Springsteen, I did find that U2 might possibly tour again. An interview with lead singer Bono in May says that U2 is currently in the studio working on a new album. And following the release of that album, there might be a tour in 2026. 

Bono performing “Where the Streets Have No Name” in 1987 New York City.

This, for me, is breaking news. After my dad showed me U2’s iconic video for “Where the Streets Have No Name” on the roof of a building in 1987 New York City, I knew I had to see these guys. It seems we’re losing many of our favorite and oldest bands, but some are giving us a little hope at concerts. And, new bands are always in the making!