Top 10 Best Live Performers

Some singers and rock names are synonymous with thrilling live performances, while other artists have a reputation for only sounding great in the studio. What makes a signer become one of the best live performers? Crowd interaction and atmosphere, not just the music, make or break a performance.

Regardless of genre, how do you know which best live performers give you the best bang for your buck? Here is a top 10 list of the best live performers to see in no particular order.

1. The Rolling Stones – Hands down, the Rolling Stones is of the best live performers. It would be a privilege to even say that you saw them live. Founded in London in 1962, the band's career is marked by a continual reference and reliance on musical styles like American blues, country, folk, reggae, dance and world music. They give amazing performances, even despite weather changes. As one of the best live performers with countless number one hits, they won’t disappoint.
   
2. Coldplay – British alternative rock band Coldplay are also considered one of the best live performers, with an enormous international following. Excellent stage presence, meaningful lyrics and great orchestral performances separate this band from many when it comes to being one of the best live performers.
   
3. Metallica – Next on the list of best live performers is Metallica. They may not have been the first of their kind, but you can say there will never be another like them. Having endured the loss of band members, all of their trials and tribulations come out through their music. Known for touring hard, Metallica is guaranteed to give you a live performance you won’t forget.
   
4. Dave Matthews Band – Dave Matthews Band has been touring for years and is one of the best live performers. They have developed a consistent reputation for giving amazing shows, which include improvisational interpretations of their songs, along with spectacular lighting. Even more unique is Dave Matthews Band’s policy to allow people to record their concerts for personal or not-for-profit use.
   
5. Jill Scott – Regardless of venue size or location, Jill Scott is one of the best live performers. She has the ability to keep the vibe intimate, and with a catalog of number one songs and strong authoritative lyrics, you will leave feeling proud of yourself for seeing one of the best live performers.
   
6. Depeche Mode – Decades later, Depeche Mode is still awing fans everywhere as one of the best live performers. Dave Gahan and Martin Gore put on an emotionally-stimulating show, featuring expansive video screens that complement their vocals. Seeing this duo live in person, as well as experiencing the melody of their live instrumentals, puts Depeche Mode as one of the historically best live performers.
   
7. Red Hot Chili Peppers – Formed in 1983, The Red Hot Chili Peppers have become of the best live performers. As one of the best live performers, they have managed to retain their members over the years. Their synergy comes across and gives them the title as best live performers. They have endured generational gaps and have managed to write music that crosses over into both. Chances are even if you aren’t a fan, you still know the lyrics.
   
8. U2 – Want to hear one of the best live performers? For many, it is a life altering event to see U2. They sell out everywhere they go and always put on an incredible show. While their front man Bono is the only person to be nominated for an Academy Award, Golden Globe, Grammy and Noble Peace Prize, he would most certainly not be what he means to the world without his band mates. Millions of mind numbing number one singles, U2 is one of the greatest bands and best live performers of all time.
   
9. The Roots – Live instruments make The Roots one of the best live performers. This hip hop band from Philadelphia is known more for their live shows than their LPs. They have more live CDs and mixtapes than they have studio released albums. That fact exists for one reason only – they are simply the best live performers. Crisp, clean, and amazingly talented, The Roots tours regularly and usually performs at smaller, intimiate venues that create an incredible experience.
   
10. Janet Jackson – Janet Jackson was blessed with a mezzo-soprano vocal range. Her singing ability, along with her crisp athletic dance techniques and infectious beats makes Janet one of the best live performers. The crowd loves Janet, and she has influenced everyone from Britney Spears to Beyonce Knowles, but there is only one Janet!