Live music has a unique power. It brings people together, creates unforgettable moments, and allows artists to showcase their talent in ways that studio recordings can’t always capture. Throughout history, there have been live performances that transcended the ordinary, becoming legendary events that fans and critics alike still talk about today. These performances not only entertained but also shaped the cultural landscape, showcasing the raw energy, passion, and talent of the artists involved.

Here, we take a look at the 10 best live music performances of all time—events that left an indelible mark on both music and pop culture.

1. Queen at Live Aid (1985)

No list of iconic live performances would be complete without Queen’s electrifying set at Live Aid. Taking place at Wembley Stadium in London, this concert was part of a global effort to raise money for famine relief in Africa. Queen’s frontman, Freddie Mercury, commanded the stage with an unmatched presence, leading the 72,000-strong crowd in massive sing-alongs to hits like “Radio Ga Ga,” “We Will Rock You,” and “Bohemian Rhapsody.” The energy of the performance was electric, and it’s widely considered one of the greatest moments in live music history.

2. Jimi Hendrix at Woodstock (1969)

Woodstock is often hailed as one of the most important music festivals in history, and Jimi Hendrix’s performance was its defining moment. Closing out the festival in the early hours of Monday morning, Hendrix’s two-hour set featured a stunning rendition of “The Star-Spangled Banner,” which he transformed with his guitar into a powerful anti-war statement. His innovative use of feedback and distortion helped to redefine what could be done with the electric guitar, making this performance one for the ages.

3. Beyoncé at Coachella (2018)

Dubbed “Beychella,” Beyoncé’s performance at Coachella 2018 was nothing short of groundbreaking. It marked the first time an African-American woman headlined the festival, and Beyoncé seized the moment with a show that celebrated black culture, excellence, and history. The performance was meticulously choreographed and featured an all-black marching band, surprise appearances from Destiny’s Child, and a setlist filled with her biggest hits. Beyoncé’s combination of showmanship, artistry, and cultural commentary made this an unforgettable performance.

4. The Beatles on The Ed Sullivan Show (1964)

When The Beatles made their American television debut on “The Ed Sullivan Show,” it wasn’t just a performance—it was a cultural phenomenon. Over 73 million viewers tuned in to watch the Fab Four, marking the start of Beatlemania in the U.S. The group played some of their early hits, including “I Want to Hold Your Hand” and “She Loves You,” and their appearance changed the face of popular music, ushering in the British Invasion.

5. Prince at the Super Bowl Halftime Show (2007)

Performing in the pouring rain at Super Bowl XLI, Prince delivered what is widely regarded as the best halftime show in the history of the event. His set included a medley of covers and his own hits, culminating in a jaw-dropping performance of “Purple Rain” as rain literally poured down. Prince’s ability to turn a weather obstacle into a highlight only cemented his legendary status. His guitar work, stage presence, and vocals made this performance unforgettable.

6. Nirvana at MTV Unplugged (1993)

Nirvana’s “MTV Unplugged” performance in 1993 stands out not just for its musical excellence, but for its emotional depth. Just months before Kurt Cobain’s death, the band performed an intimate, acoustic set that included covers of David Bowie’s “The Man Who Sold the World” and traditional folk songs like “Where Did You Sleep Last Night.” The stripped-down arrangements and Cobain’s raw, haunting vocals gave the performance a sense of vulnerability that resonated deeply with fans.

7. David Bowie at the Hammersmith Odeon (1973)

David Bowie’s final show as Ziggy Stardust at the Hammersmith Odeon in 1973 marked the end of an era. During the show, Bowie stunned the audience by announcing that this would be “the last show that we’ll ever do,” effectively retiring his iconic alter ego. The concert featured some of Bowie’s best-known songs, including “Starman” and “Suffragette City,” and it solidified Bowie’s status as a rock icon, constantly reinventing himself and his music.

8. Johnny Cash at Folsom Prison (1968)

Johnny Cash’s live performance at Folsom Prison remains one of the most famous live albums of all time. Cash performed for the inmates, delivering a gritty, powerful set that included songs like “Folsom Prison Blues” and “Cocaine Blues.” The performance captured the raw energy of Cash’s connection with the audience and his empathy for those living on society’s fringes. The album, “At Folsom Prison,” went on to be a commercial and critical success, re-energizing Cash’s career.

9. Led Zeppelin at Madison Square Garden (1973)

Led Zeppelin’s 1973 concert at Madison Square Garden, immortalized in the concert film The Song Remains the Same, is widely considered one of the greatest live performances in rock history. The band’s virtuosity, particularly Jimmy Page’s guitar work and Robert Plant’s vocals, was on full display. The set included extended versions of classic Zeppelin tracks like “Stairway to Heaven” and “Dazed and Confused,” showcasing the band’s unmatched musicianship and onstage presence.

10. Michael Jackson at Motown 25 (1983)

Michael Jackson’s performance at Motown 25: Yesterday, Today, Forever is legendary for one specific moment: the debut of the moonwalk. While performing “Billie Jean,” Jackson stunned the audience with a dance move that became instantly iconic. The performance not only showcased Jackson’s unmatched talent as a singer and dancer but also helped cement his place as the King of Pop. The impact of that performance is still felt today, influencing generations of performers.