Lou Gramm Rocks St. Petersburg with Foreigner Classics in Epic Comeback!

St. Petersburg, Florida, USA - In a spectacular display of rock nostalgia, Lou Gramm took to the stage at the Palladium in St. Petersburg, Florida, on June 18, 2025. This event, meticulously captured by the Djbobstar YouTube channel, showcased an impressive array of Foreigner classics that spanned Gramm’s remarkable career. The setlist featured iconic tracks like „Feels Like The First Time,“ „Cold As Ice,“ and „Juke Box Hero,“ mesmerizing fans present and those tuning in online. This concert comes on the heels of the band’s recent Latin American tour, which launched on April 28, with guitarist Luis Maldonado stepping in to handle lead vocals for most of that leg due to Kelly Hansen’s absence for personal reasons.

Gramm, who performed the last four songs of the set, has confirmed plans to continue touring with Foreigner into 2026. He mentioned exciting upcoming tours across Southeast Asia, Europe, and the U.S., while also reflecting on the band’s upcoming induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2024, a well-deserved recognition after years of eligibility beginning in 2002. In light of this honor, Gramm expressed both pride and a tinge of sorrow, noting the absence of founding guitarist Mick Jones, who has been facing serious health issues, including Parkinson’s disease.

A Changing of the Guard

This tour also marks a pivotal moment for the band, as Kelly Hansen announced his departure after the summer 2025 tour. He has been the face of Foreigner since 2005, but future performances will see Maldonado stepping into the lead role permanently. Despite the transition, the energy of the band remains intact, as evidenced by the incredible performances across South America and their US shows.

During the South American leg of the tour, Maldonado not only dazzled audiences with his vocal prowess but also introduced a fresh element to the songs by performing some classics in Spanish. This adaptation highlights Foreigner’s commitment to connecting with a diverse fanbase and celebrating the cultural richness of their audience.

Reflecting on a Legacy

Interestingly, Lou Gramm has been open about his thoughts regarding the current lineup of Foreigner. With original members faded from the scene, some fans see the present group as more of a cover band, since they didn’t participate in the original recordings. This sentiment underscores the significance of the upcoming Hall of Fame induction — a moment that Gramm believes marks the culmination of their journey together.

As for Gramm, he has had a storied career that stretches over five decades. His reflections on retiring signal a desire to shift focus toward personal passions, such as his collection of muscle cars, which he plans to enjoy once the touring schedule wanes. For those fortunate enough to witness his performances before he hangs up his rock ’n‘ roll boots, the experience is undoubtedly something to cherish.

With the exhilarating future ahead for Foreigner and the monumental Hall of Fame induction on the horizon, fans are eagerly anticipating not just the music, but the legacy Lou Gramm and his bandmates have built over the years. As they continue to rock stages around the world, it’s clear there’s still a vibrant spark in the classics loved by millions.

Read more about Lou Gramm’s electrifying performance and Foreigner’s upcoming endeavors in the full article on Blabbermouth, find updates on Luis Maldonado’s role in the band on Ultimate Classic Rock, and explore Lou Gramm’s thoughts on the Hall of Fame induction on Rolling Stone.