On June 30, 2018, history was made at the Mercedes-Benz Arena Stuttgart as The Rolling Stones brought their electrifying “No Filter” tour to Germany. Fans from across Europe and beyond converged on Stuttgart for a night of legendary rock and roll under the summer sky. This wasn’t just a concert; it was an experience, a testament to the enduring power of rock music and the timeless appeal of the greatest rock and roll band in the world.
The Mercedes-Benz Arena, a venue known for hosting major sporting events and concerts, provided the perfect backdrop for this monumental occasion. The anticipation in Stuttgart was palpable in the hours leading up to the show, with the city buzzing with excitement as fans decked out in Stones gear filled the streets and local pubs.
A Setlist of Stone-Cold Classics
The Rolling Stones delivered a setlist packed with iconic hits and fan favorites, ensuring there wasn’t a still foot in the Mercedes-Benz Arena. Kicking off the night with the high-energy “Street Fighting Man,” the band immediately set the tone for a powerful performance. The crowd roared its approval as the opening chords reverberated through the stadium.
Following up with “It’s Only Rock ‘n’ Roll” and “Tumbling Dice,” the energy levels remained sky-high. The setlist was a masterclass in rock history, seamlessly blending classics like “Paint It Black,” “Honky Tonk Women,” and “Sympathy For The Devil” with deeper cuts and surprises like “Ride ’em On Down” and a captivating rendition of Bob Dylan’s “Like A Rolling Stone.”
Keith Richards took center stage for his signature set, delivering soulful versions of “You Got The Silver” and “Before They Make Me Run,” much to the delight of the crowd. The rhythm section, anchored by the legendary Charlie Watts and the ever-steady Darryl Jones, provided the backbone for the Stones’ signature sound, while Ronnie Wood’s guitar work added flair and finesse to every song.
The encore was nothing short of spectacular, launching with a rousing “Gimme Shelter” and culminating in the ultimate rock anthem, “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction,” leaving the Stuttgart crowd in a state of pure rock and roll bliss. The show, lasting over two hours, was a testament to the band’s stamina and unwavering commitment to delivering an unforgettable experience for their fans.
Fan Reviews: An Unforgettable Night at Stuttgart Benz Arena
The concert at Mercedes-Benz Arena Stuttgart was met with rave reviews from fans who attended. Many highlighted the band’s incredible energy and tight performance, especially considering their legendary status and decades in the music industry.
Kirk Trounson, a fan from New Zealand, described the show as “tremendous” and “magical,” emphasizing the unique vibe of a European summer show starting in daylight and continuing as the sun sets. He noted Mick Jagger’s “fantastic energy” and Keith Richards’ captivating stage presence.
Dirk Wiefel recounted fulfilling “three dreams” – getting pit tickets, catching Ronnie Wood’s guitar pick, and witnessing an “awesome” show. He praised the band’s crispness and energy, singling out “Miss You” and “Midnight Rambler” as highlights, and was impressed by the diverse and enthusiastic crowd, noting the presence of many young fans.
Francois Galaup, despite some initial organizational hiccups, acknowledged the improved experience in Stuttgart compared to a previous show. He appreciated the setlist variations and the visual spectacle of the stage production, even from the general admission area.
Derek Di Perri, who had a personal connection to Stuttgart due to his favorite football team’s history at the venue (formerly Neckarstadion), found the city and the concert to be exceptional. He lauded the Stones’ “powerful and intense performance,” calling it possibly the best of the tour. He highlighted individual song performances and remarked on Mick Jagger’s continued improvement and unparalleled stage presence.
Lorenzo Dorigo and his group overcame a van breakdown to reach the Mercedes-Benz Arena and were rewarded with a “superb gig.” He emphasized the band’s explosive start, the crystal-clear sound, and Keith Richards’ exceptional playing, declaring it “Keith’s night.” He also noted Charlie Watts’ evident joy and the overall perfect experience.
These reviews collectively paint a picture of a truly special night at the Mercedes-Benz Arena Stuttgart, where The Rolling Stones delivered a performance that exceeded expectations and cemented their legacy as the greatest rock and roll band of all time.
Stuttgart’s Mercedes-Benz Arena: A Premier Concert Destination
The Mercedes-Benz Arena Stuttgart proved to be an ideal venue for hosting such a massive and iconic event. Its modern facilities, spacious layout, and excellent acoustics contributed to the overall positive concert experience. Fans praised the venue’s organization and atmosphere, further enhancing the memory of this unforgettable night of rock and roll history in Stuttgart.
The Rolling Stones’ performance at the Mercedes-Benz Arena Stuttgart will undoubtedly be remembered as a highlight of the “No Filter” tour and a landmark event for the city. It was a night where rock and roll history was celebrated and reaffirmed, leaving fans with memories to last a lifetime and further solidifying the Mercedes-Benz Arena as a premier destination for world-class entertainment.
