25 captivating live performances you can watch on YouTube right now

Back in 2018, The Cure performed in celebration of their 40th Anniversary, named 40 LIVE - CURÆTION-25 + ANNIVERSARY. If you’re a fan of The Cure, this is a must-watch live performance of their beloved hit, "Just Like Heaven." Robert Smith’s voice is just as, if not even more, powerful and captivating today as it was 40+ years ago.

If you know the story behind "Silver Springs" by Fleetwood Mac, you’ll know the gravity of this performance. Stevie Nicks wrote this song about her ex-boyfriend and guitarist, Lindsey Buckingham. But not only did she perform the song live with him by her side, she stared directly into his eyes as he harmonized on the lyrics that were about him. Fans are still blown away by this live performance at Warner Bros. Studios to this day.

The song “Iris” by the Goo Goo Dolls captured the hearts of many back in the late ‘90s and early 2000s. However, this live performance in Buffalo was like something out of a movie. The rain was truly a paid actor as it poured down on lead singer John Rzeznik as he belted out the song’s romantic, gut-wrenching lyrics.

The 1975’s recent live performance of "About You" at the Glastonbury Festival was cinematic in every way. From the haunting harmonies to the fans’ emotional reactions to the heartbreaking lyrics, it’s impossible not to have goosebumps when watching/listening. Not to mention, the performance ends with lead singer Matty Healy crying on stage, taking it all in as he embraces the emotions of the moment. 

Black Sabbath’s delivery of “War Pigs” from their farewell tour, The End, was a powerful, dark, and intense performance. When posting the clip on their YouTube channel, the band said it was the last time they’d perform "War Pigs" live. The emotional concert captivated the entire audience.

Alice In Chains delivered an incredible live performance in 1990 at The Moore Theatre in Seattle, Washington. The clip showcases the band’s raw talent and Layne Staley’s unrivaled vocal abilities. Not to mention, there’s that authentic, nostalgic ‘90s metal feel that keeps fans coming back for more.

U2 blew their audience away with their Rose Bowl 360 Tour. Specifically, fans were captivated when the band segued from “Amazing Grace” to “Where The Streets Have No Name.” Bono’s vocal range and powerful delivery moved many fans to tears.

“Mr. Brightside” by The Killers has always been a cinematic song in its own right. However, this live performance of the track from The Royal Albert Hall in 2009 only strengthened the adoration behind it. The raw delivery of the band’s largest hit and debut single will stick with you for quite some time. Additionally, the crowd’s pure exhilaration and sense of community are a beautiful scene to witness.

There’s something already so captivating about The Cranberries—especially their song “Linger.” However, their live 1999 performance of the hit in Paris blew fans away. Dolores O'Riordan’s unique, hauntingly beautiful vocals, which featured her signature yodel, were just as smooth and mesmerizing (if not more) live as they were pre-recorded.

Another enchanting band from the late ‘80s/early ‘90s was Mazzy Star. This alternative rock band is well-known for its signature hit “Fade Into You.” The live version of the song at Shoreline Amphitheatre showcases lead singer Hope Sandoval’s incredibly smooth vocals, as well as her shy, oftentimes timid demeanor, which only adds to the band’s charm.

Amy Winehouse’s live performance of "Back To Black" at Other Voices in 2006 was a testament to her raw talent. Not only did she do the song and its lyrics justice with her powerful, emotive vocals, but she also delivered her performance in an elegant yet strong manner. There was no need for frivolous or theatrical effects, as Amy’s voice — paired with her talented guitarist and bassist — was more than enough.

Chappell Roan’s delivery of “Pink Pony Club” at the 67th Grammy Awards was incredibly impressive and monumental. In fact, the performance was just as theatrical as it was musical. Chappell truly rejuvenated the pop music industry with her powerful social movements, creative execution, and empowered, uplifting energy. 

Ella Fitzgerald was arguably one of the most talented, versatile, and beloved jazz singers of all time. This live performance includes an entire tracklist of 14 songs. The fully restored black and white footage preserves the talent and grace that Ella carried throughout her music career.

Wolf Alice’s recent performance of “Don’t Delete the Kisses” at the Glastonbury Festival blew fans away — and for good reason. It’s hard not to be enchanted by lead singer Ellie Rowsell’s stage presence and powerful voice. Additionally, the gorgeous backdrop of the sunset with the lively crowd was pure magic.

Gracie Abrams’s “I Love You, I’m Sorry” is a deeply human and narrative song that explores the aftermath of a breakup. During Gracie’s live performance of the track on Saturday Night Live, you can witness the raw emotion in the singer's delivery. Fans adore how her voice cracks at certain, more passionate parts of the song, as well as her adorable smirks throughout.

The 10-minute version of Taylor Swift’s “All Too Well” nearly broke the internet when it was first released. However, the live version packs an additional layer of grief. Not only did her short film for the song play in the background, but her delivery was seemingly fueled by rage and heartache.

Speaking of songs that broke the internet…Olivia Rodrigo’s “drivers license” was a debut single that took the world by storm in early 2021. Olivia’s incredible range and vocal control are absolutely wild, evident even during her Saturday Night Live special. Not to mention, she was only 18 at the time of this performance.

British singer/songwriter RAYE performed a powerful medley of “Ice Cream Man,” “Prada,” and “Escapism” at the 2024 BRIT Awards. Not only is she a wildly talented singer, but her vulnerable storytelling (oftentimes through a spoken-word delivery) gives voice to women who have been assaulted, abused, and silenced. This live performance deserves to be seen by all.

Three years ago, SiriusXM released a live performance by "Tears for Fears," the infamous ‘80s band. The group performed their classic hit “Everybody Wants to Rule the World,” and somehow, they still sounded just as amazing as they did 40-plus years ago. 

Evanescence’s “My Immortal” is possibly one of the most haunting songs in history. Lead singer Amy Lee has one of those voices you can’t help but be mesmerized by. Her vocal range and power are unrivaled, and her delivery is just as — if not more — captivating during this 2004 live performance.

The Marías’s live performance of “No One Noticed” on The Tonight Show blew guests away. Lead singer María Zardoya’s sultry, whisper-like vocals are even more mesmerizing live. She also sang the extended Spanish version of the song, which fans adored.

Kendrick Lamar’s Super Bowl Halftime Show received mixed feedback. However, the politically driven performance (with a touch of shade toward someone in the hip-hop industry…) is a must-watch. Not to mention, the cinematography and the choreography blew fans away.

Lady Gaga is a wildly talented musician and performer, and this live performance of "Bad Romance" at Sydney Monster Hall in 2011 only further supports that statement. Not only is she incredibly interactive with her audience, but she also has the stage presence of a true pop star. From her outfit to her choreography to her amazing vocals, she killed this show.

Dean Martin was a beloved singer, actor, and comedian. Also referred to as the "King of Cool,” he was one of the most popular entertainers of his time. This live concert experience in London from 1983 showcases his raw talent and stage presence, which many still admire today. 

“Fake Plastic Trees” is a brilliant, emotional song that deserves to be heard live. The 1995 performance by Radiohead on Late Night with Conan O' Brien quite literally moved me — and many other fans — to tears. Thom Yorke’s raw talent and vocal range bleed through in this live show.