Every rockstar knows how to take the stage, but only a few get to make their final bow under the spotlight. These last performances are heavy with history, moments when legends gave it their all, not knowing (and sometimes knowing) it would be their final show.
Farewell tours, unplanned goodbyes, or a last-minute gigs before fate stepped in, and everything changed, these concerts capture the unfiltered energy of artists at the end of the road.
From sentimental guitar solos to tearful encores, each image tells the story of music icons going out in true rock 'n' roll fashion, loud and proud.
1
Chris Cornell from Soundgarden in May 17, 2017
He ended with “In My Time of Dying.” Hours later, fans learned it really had been.
2
hester Bennington from Linkin Park in July 20, 2017.
In what no one knew would be his final performance, Chester delivered a powerful, emotional set.
3
Janis Joplin in August 12, 1970
She owned the stage with her wild energy, but weeks later her fire was lost forever.
4
John Lennon in November 28, 1974
Lennon surprised the crowd during Elton John’s set. He never performed live again. This was six years before his death.
5
Steve Harwell from Smash Mouth in August 27, 2021.
During a chaotic and slurred performance, Harwell appeared disoriented. It was his final show before retiring due to health issues. He would die two years later from liver failure.
6
Johnny Cash in July 5, 2003
Blind, frail, and heartbroken, he still gave his all.
7
Mark Sandman from Morphine in July 3, 1999
While performing, Sandman suddenly collapsed mid-set from a heart attack. He was pronounced dead shortly after.
8
Ozzy Osbourne in July 5, 2025
Ozzy’s farewell show with Black Sabbath took place in his hometown. It was a powerful, emotional goodbye, two weeks before his death.
9
Roy Orbison in December 4, 1988
Orbison delivered a flawless set, his voice soaring as always. Just two days later, he died of a heart attack.
10
Buddy Holly in February 2, 1959
His final show was full of energy despite brutal travel conditions. Hours later, his plane crashed en route to the next stop.
11
Jim Morrison from The Doors in December 12, 1970
An unhinged and eerie final set. Jim reportedly walked off mid-song. It would be his last time on stage.
12
Amy Winehouse in June 18, 2011
Slurring and lost on stage. A heartbreaking end to a troubled genius.
13
Kurt Cobain from Nirvana in March 1, 1994
The end of Nirvana’s final tour. Cobain was visibly unwell, and just a month later, he was gone.
14
George Harrison in November 29, 1992
His last public performance, playing “Absolutely Sweet Marie” at a Bob Dylan tribute concert.
15
Elvis Presley in June 26, 1977
Struggling, but still adored. This was The King's last concert before his tragic end.
