Live music tours have long been a major revenue stream for artists, but some tours have shattered records, setting new benchmarks for success. Here’s a look at the top 10 highest grossing tours that have redefined earnings in the music industry:
10. Guns N’ Roses – Not In This Lifetime Tour
- Gross Earnings: ₹4840 crore
- Shows: 158
The reunion of Guns N’ Roses’ classic lineup, including Axl Rose, Slash, and Duff McKagan, brought a surge of excitement among fans who had waited decades to see them together again. Their Not In This Lifetime Tour became a global phenomenon, with sold-out shows across North and South America, Europe, and Asia. Featuring their iconic hits like “Sweet Child O’ Mine” and “November Rain,” the tour showcased their timeless rock anthems and electrifying performances to millions.
9. Ed Sheeran +-=÷x Music Tour (Ongoing)
- Gross Earnings: ₹5380 crore
- Shows: 103 (and counting)
Ed Sheeran’s ongoing tour is another chapter in his journey of redefining modern live performances. Known for his ability to connect with audiences on an intimate level despite performing in massive stadiums, Sheeran combines heartfelt ballads like “Perfect” with upbeat anthems like “Shape of You.” The tour’s minimalist stage design highlights his artistry, relying solely on his guitar, loop pedal, and magnetic presence to captivate audiences worldwide.
8. Pink – Summer Carnival Tour
- Gross Earnings: ₹4840 crore
- Shows: 97
Pink’s Summer Carnival Tour is a dazzling blend of music, acrobatics, and raw emotion. With breathtaking aerial stunts and powerful vocals, Pink delivers an unforgettable experience. Performing hits like “Just Give Me a Reason” and “What About Us,” she creates an emotional connection with fans while showcasing her unmatched energy and stage presence. The tour’s vibrant carnival theme further enhances its visual appeal, making it a feast for the senses.
7. Harry Styles – Love On Tour
- Gross Earnings: ₹5120 crore
- Shows: 169
Harry Styles’ Love On Tour solidified his status as a global superstar. Known for his colorful outfits, charming stage presence, and genre-defying music, Styles performed hits like “Watermelon Sugar” and “As It Was” to sold-out arenas and stadiums worldwide. The tour’s inclusive and celebratory atmosphere made it a favorite among fans, with Styles often encouraging self-expression and love throughout his performances.
6. Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band – 2023-2025 Tour (Ongoing)
- Gross Earnings: ₹5220 crore
- Shows: 110 (and counting)
Bruce Springsteen, known as “The Boss,” and his legendary E Street Band have proven once again that their music transcends generations. Their ongoing tour features a mix of classic hits like “Born to Run” and “Dancing in the Dark,” along with newer material. With energetic performances and heartfelt storytelling, Springsteen continues to captivate audiences, bringing unparalleled passion to every show.
5. U2 – 360° Tour
- Gross Earnings: ₹6100 crore
- Shows: 110
U2’s 360° Tour broke new ground with its innovative stage design and immersive concert experience. The “Claw” stage, a massive 360-degree structure, allowed fans to enjoy unparalleled views from any angle. The tour’s groundbreaking production, combined with U2’s iconic songs like “With or Without You” and “Beautiful Day,” set a new standard for live music experiences.
4. Ed Sheeran – ÷ (Divide) Tour
- Gross Earnings: ₹6440 crore
- Shows: 255
Ed Sheeran’s Divide Tour set records as one of the most attended and highest-grossing tours in history. Spanning multiple continents, the tour featured hits like “Castle on the Hill” and “Galway Girl.” Sheeran’s ability to hold massive audiences spellbound with just a guitar and loop pedal is a testament to his artistry and connection with fans.
3. Elton John – Farewell Yellow Brick Road Tour
- Gross Earnings: ₹7800 crore
- Shows: 330
Elton John’s farewell tour is a celebration of his incredible career, spanning over five decades. With a meticulously curated setlist that includes timeless classics like “Rocket Man” and “Tiny Dancer,” the tour has been an emotional goodbye for fans. Elaborate stage designs and heartfelt performances make each show a unique tribute to his legacy.
2. Coldplay – Music of the Spheres World Tour
- Gross Earnings: ₹9460 crore
- Shows: 175
Coldplay’s Music of the Spheres Tour combines their iconic sound with stunning visuals and an environmentally conscious message. Featuring hits like “Viva La Vida” and “A Sky Full of Stars,” the tour emphasizes sustainability with renewable energy sources powering the shows. Their immersive performances and vibrant stage setups have captivated fans worldwide, making this tour a standout success.
1. Taylor Swift – Eras Tour
- Gross Earnings: ₹18260 crore
- Shows: 149
Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour has redefined what a live music tour can achieve. Featuring a career-spanning setlist and unparalleled production, the tour takes fans on a journey through Swift’s musical evolution. From her country roots to her pop anthems, Swift’s performances are packed with emotion, storytelling, and spectacle. With record-breaking earnings and sold-out shows, the Eras Tour has become a cultural phenomenon, setting the gold standard for future tours.
These tours have showcased the incredible power of live music to bring people together, while also redefining the scale and scope of what’s possible in the industry. For the latest updates on upcoming tours, exclusive content, and behind-the-scenes highlights, make sure to follow FestUp your ultimate destination for everything live music.