Def Leppard Rocks the Hard Rock Live in Hollywood, Fl

2025-09-01

DefLeppard-HardRockLive-Hollywood_Fl-08292025-IvanRomero-999 — Def Leppard | Hard Rock Live | Seminole Hard Rock Resort and Casino | Hollywood, Fl | August 29, 2025 | Photo Credit: ©IvanRomero

Hollywood, Fl – The evening air is thick with anticipation as fans stream into the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Florida. Inside its crown jewel venue—Hard Rock Live—7,000 seats fill quickly with a multigenerational crowd, from die-hard fans in vintage tour shirts to newcomers eager to witness rock royalty, Def Leppard. The venue, known for its pristine acoustics and immersive lighting, sets the stage for a night that promises both spectacle and soul.

Though the show starts about 15 minutes late, the delay only fuels the excitement. The countdown video starts at 5 minutes and the roars echo through the hall as the time expires and the house lights finally drop, fans erupting instantaneously.

Def Leppard hits the stage with the force of a freight train. Joe Elliott, clad in black, commands the crowd with a voice that’s both raw and melodic. Phil Collen and Vivian Campbell flank him, trading solos with blistering precision and playful chemistry. Rick Savage’s bass lines are thunderous and tight, while Rick Allen—ever the heartbeat of the band—delivers a masterclass in rhythm from his custom drum rig.

From the first notes of “Rock! Rock! (Till You Drop),” the crowd is on its feet. Fans scream, dance, and throw their hands in the air. “Let’s Get Rocked” turns the venue into a party, with fans singing every word and jumping in sync with the beat. During “Love Bites,” couples embrace, swaying to the haunting melody. One woman in her 60s wipes away tears, telling her daughter, “This was my wedding song.”

Midway through the show, the lights dim and the band gathers at the front of the stage for a special acoustic set. Rick Allen steps down from his riser, joining the group with hand percussion. The crowd cheers warmly, many standing in respect for the drummer whose story of resilience continues to inspire.

Joe Elliott introduces “This Guitar,” originally recorded with Alison Krauss, as “a song about the journey we’ve all taken with music.” The stripped-down arrangement is stunning—Collen and Campbell’s acoustic guitars shimmer, Savage’s bass is subtle and warm, and Allen’s percussion adds a heartbeat to the performance.

The audience falls silent, captivated. When the final chord rings out, the applause is thunderous. Next is “Two Steps Behind,” and the venue becomes a choir. Fans hold up lighters and phone flashlights, creating a sea of twinkling lights.

The band returns to full throttle with “Bringin’ On the Heartbreak” and “Switch 625,” reigniting the crowd’s energy. “Rock of Ages” and “Photograph” follow, each met with explosive applause and singalongs.

Then comes the encore.

“When Love and Hate Collide” is met with great appreciation as the band returns to the stage. “Hysteria” begins with its hypnotic intro, building into a lush, layered anthem. The crowd sways, sings, and absorbs every note. Finally, the unmistakable intro to “Pour Some Sugar on Me” sends the venue into a frenzy. Fans leap to their feet, dancing, shouting, and celebrating the band’s legacy. It’s the perfect climax to a night of rock excellence.

As the final notes fade and the band takes their bows, the crowd roars in gratitude. Def Leppard exits the stage, leaving behind a room full of memories, emotion, adrenaline and the promise to return to the Hard Rock Live at the Seminole Hard Rock Resort and Casino in Hollywood, Fl.