What was the last live performance you saw?

On July 13, 1985, I witnessed a historic moment in music history, a live performance the Live Aid concert. Though I watched it on TV, the energy and impact felt as real as being there. This legendary event, organized to raise funds for famine relief in Ethiopia, was one of the largest satellite linkups and television broadcasts ever, captivating an estimated 1.5 billion viewers worldwide.

I shared this experience with my father, a man rarely moved by music. Yet, the electrifying performances and the sight of massive crowds cheering for artists like Freddie Mercury, Elton John, Queen, David Bowie, Paul McCartney, The Who, U2, and Madonna held him spellbound. We sat glued to the screen, marveling at the raw talent and passion that defined every moment.

Live Aid wasn’t just a concert; it was a cultural milestone. Iconic performances, like Queen’s show-stopping set, left an indelible mark on music history. Beyond the stage, the event aimed to alleviate suffering in Ethiopia, raising millions for famine relief. However, its legacy is complexcontroversy lingers over allegations that some funds were misused by corrupt officials. Despite this, Live Aid’s impact endures. It inspired a wave of benefit concerts and raised global awareness about humanitarian causes.

Reflecting on that day, I’m reminded of music’s power to unite and inspire. Live Aid wasn’t just a concertit was a movement that echoed far beyond 1985, shaping the world in ways we still feel today.