Audacy’s KROQ Almost Acoustic Christmas 2024: A Night of Epic Performances and Holiday Cheer

Did you miss the biggest holiday concert of the season? Don’t sweat it—we’ve got the details! Audacy’s KROQ Almost Acoustic Christmas 2024 was a total blast, with an epic lineup, surprises, and mind-blowing performances. The sold-out event at the iconic Kia Forum in Inglewood, CA, was all about rock ‘n’ roll and the holiday spirit. 

No worries if you can’t make it. Read on for a recap of the unforgettable night, packed with classic hits and new tracks. And hey, it’s never too early to get excited for next year’s show!

A Festive Spirit at the Kia Forum

The Kia Forum, known for its intimate yet grand setting, was the perfect venue for this massive event. The 33rd annual KROQ Almost Acoustic Christmas turned the venue into a vibrant holiday playground. Seas of concertgoers packed the space, many wearing festive Santa hats, quirky Christmas sweaters, and vibrant red outfits. The atmosphere was electric with excitement, laughter, and cheer.

As fans filed into the venue, the holiday spirit was undeniable. Whether you were there for your favorite band or just to soak in the energy of a holiday rock event, the setting didn’t disappoint. From the towering LED screens to the sleek design of the Forum, the venue made the perfect backdrop for this holiday rock celebration.

Franz Ferdinand’s High-Energy Rock Vibes

The evening kicked off with a bang as Franz Ferdinand took the stage with their signature blend of high-octane rock. The band’s energy was palpable as they opened with the catchy “Bar Lonely,” getting the crowd hyped. Their performance was a journey through their career, mixing iconic hits like “Take Me Out” and “This Fire” with fresh tracks like “Slams” and “Hooks.”

The crowd was alive, dancing and singing along, proving that the Scottish rockers’ fanbase continues to grow with every performance. Lead singer Alex Kapranos shared his excitement after the show, noting how younger generations are discovering their music. He reflected on the band’s longevity, saying it felt surreal to hear that their tracks were now a part of so many fans’ musical upbringing.

Beck’s Eclectic Holiday Set

Next up was Beck, whose set was one of the night’s true highlights. His ability to blend alternative rock, funk, and experimental sounds created a fun, engaging atmosphere that kept fans on their toes. Tracks like “Loser” and “Devil’s Haircut” had the crowd singing along, but Beck’s quirky stories added a personal touch to the evening.

At one point, Beck joked about his recent Christmas shopping, sharing that he got two Christmas trees at a “two-for-one deal” in Burbank. His humor was as infectious as his music, and it felt like he truly enjoyed being home for the holidays. Beck wrapped up his set with “E-Pro” and “Dreams,” and the crowd roared their approval.

311 Brings the Heat with Reggae-Rock Fusion

311 brought their signature blend of reggae, rock, and hip-hop to the stage with a set that kept fans engaged from start to finish. Classic hits like “Down” and “Amber” still hit hard, while newer tracks from their latest album found a warm reception with the audience. The band’s stage presence was as strong as ever, and their seamless transitions between different genres kept the energy level high.

One standout moment was when the band covered The Cure’s “Lovesong.” Whether you were a die-hard 311 fan or just enjoying the moment, it was clear that the crowd loved it. The mix of holiday cheer and timeless tracks made their set one for the books.

Sublime’s West Coast Vibes

The night continued with Sublime, who brought their laid-back, reggae-infused rock to the stage, giving the crowd a taste of sunshine even on a crisp December night. Frontman Jakob Nowell, son of the late Bradley Nowell, led the group through some of the band’s greatest hits, including “Summertime” and “What I Got.” The crowd was fully engaged, singing along to every word.

Nowell connected with the audience personally, saying, “Let’s give it up for the memories we’re about to create right here right now.” His heartfelt words resonated, creating an emotional moment between the band and the audience. A fun moment came when a dog wandered onto the stage during “Wrong Way,” much to the crowd’s delight.

Smashing Pumpkins: A Spectacular Closer

As the night drew to a close, The Smashing Pumpkins delivered an epic performance that left the crowd in awe. Frontman Billy Corgan, dressed in his signature black attire, led the band through an unforgettable set. Classic tracks like “Today is the Greatest” and “1979” had everyone singing along, while newer hits like “Bullet With Butterfly Wings” and “Tonight, Tonight” brought the house down.

The band paid tribute to David Bowie with their iconic cover of “Ziggy Stardust,” and guitarist James Iha took the lead for a heartfelt rendition of U2’s “Zoo Station.” The night ended on a high note as fans cheered, reflecting on a truly legendary night of music.

Jimmy Eat World: Emo Rock with Holiday Cheer

Jimmy Eat World was another crowd favorite, delivering an emotional and high-energy set. The band’s signature sound, blending alt-rock and emo, had the crowd jumping, especially during “The Middle” and “Sweetness.” The band’s passion was evident, and they had no problem connecting with the audience on a personal level.

Perhaps the most unexpected moment of their set was their cover of Wham’s “Last Christmas,” which brought a burst of holiday cheer. It was the perfect nod to the season, showing that even in a rock-heavy lineup, the spirit of Christmas can shine through.

The Linda Lindas and Bby: The Up-and-Comers

Before the bigger names took the stage, The Linda Lindas and Bby offered a refreshing take on indie and alt-pop music. Both bands represented the new wave of up-and-coming talent, providing the audience with a taste of fresh sounds and exciting potential. Fans were already buzzing about The Linda Lindas catchy melodies and Bby’s smooth, atmospheric vibes. The smaller, intimate sets allowed the crowd to connect with these bands, knowing they were witnessing the start of something big.

The Spirit of Giving: KROQ’s Charitable Impact

While the music was undeniably the star of the show, the event’s charitable aspect was just as important. Audacy’s KROQ Almost Acoustic Christmas 2024 benefited two organizations dedicated to supporting local youth education: Para Los Niños and the Al Wooten Jr. Heritage Center. These organizations work tirelessly to provide educational support to underserved communities, and the concert raised significant funds to aid their missions.

It was a reminder that the spirit of rock ‘n’ roll is not just about the music—it’s about giving back and making a difference. Fans who attended not only enjoyed a stellar night of music but also helped contribute to a good cause.

Looking Forward to Next Year’s Show

For those lucky enough to attend, Audacy’s KROQ Almost Acoustic Christmas 2024 was a night to remember. From iconic rock legends to up-and-coming artists, the event was a testament to the enduring power of music. If you missed it, don’t fret—next year’s show promises to be just as epic. Start making plans now because you won’t want to miss the 34th edition of this beloved holiday tradition.

Will you be there next year? Or will you let another year of unforgettable performances slip by? Don’t wait until it’s too late! Secure your tickets early for KROQ Almost Acoustic Christmas 2025 and be part of the magic. You’ll be talking about it for years to come.