Bleachers Kick Off the Rolling Stone Rock Tour in New Orleans

Just two nights before the release of their fifth studio album, Everyone for Ten Minutes, Bleachers took to the stage at The Fillmore in New Orleans. The performance served as the electrifying kick-off for the 2026 Rolling Stone Rock Tour, presented by Miller High Life.

Fronted by the prolific Jack Antonoff, the band delivered a set that balanced high-octane rock anthems with intimate moments from their latest record. The show was a testament to the band’s enduring appeal, featuring live debuts of new tracks like “Sideways” alongside fan favorites such as “Stop Making This Hurt” and “I Wanna Get Better.”

A Night of Rock and Reflection

The atmosphere at The Fillmore was charged with anticipation. Despite the gloomy New Orleans weather, the crowd remained undeterred, filling the venue with palpable energy. Opening acts Been Stellar and Thomas Dollbaum set a strong tone for the evening, warming up the audience with their distinct rock sounds.

For Antonoff, the tour is more than just a series of shows; it is a platform to engage with the realities of the modern music industry. Known for his outspoken stance on ticketing transparency and the accessibility of live music, Antonoff emphasized the importance of the concert experience. “I love this industry so much and don’t believe that concerts should be for rich kids only,” he noted in a recent conversation.

The Future of the Tour

The 2026 Rolling Stone Rock Tour is slated to visit six cities across the country. Following the successful New Orleans opener, the tour will head to Denver on June 25 for a performance by Geese, with additional dates in Chicago, New York, San Diego, and Nashville to be announced soon.

As for the band’s lineup, Antonoff was joined by a powerhouse group of musicians, including Mikey Freedom Hart, drummers Sean Hutchinson and Michael Riddleberger, and saxophonists Zem Audu and Evan Smith. Their collective performance underscored why Bleachers remains one of the most vital acts in contemporary rock.

Reflecting on the state of live music, Antonoff remains optimistic. “The biggest thing I’m gonna keep doing is shouting about it, because live music is literally bigger than ever,” he said. “People are going to shows in a big way now. I love touring and live music so much.”