The Best Classic Rock Concert Encores Of All Time

From Led Zeppelin to Prince, these are the most legendary rock encores ever performed.

Mar. 21, 2026 at 4:07pm

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This article looks at some of the most iconic encore performances in classic rock history, including Led Zeppelin's scorching rendition of "The Ocean" in 1973, The Band bringing out Bob Dylan for a mini-set in 1971, Prince's epic 16-minute version of "Purple Rain" in 1985, and Fleetwood Mac reuniting with a marching band in 1997.

Why it matters

These encore performances captured the raw energy, showmanship, and transcendent moments that made classic rock concerts such unforgettable experiences for fans. They represent the special connection between artists and their audiences, as well as the ability of music to create indelible memories.

The details

The article highlights several legendary encore performances, including Led Zeppelin's incendiary take on "The Ocean" during their 1973 "Houses of the Holy" tour, The Band bringing out Bob Dylan for a mini-set at their 1971 New Year's Eve show in Boston, Prince's 16-minute version of "Purple Rain" backed by his Revolution in 1985, The Cure's marathon 9-song encore in France in 1986, Pink Floyd's 24-minute "Echoes" closer in 1974, Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young's urgent performance of "Ohio" in 1974, and Black Sabbath ripping through "Paranoid" in New Jersey in 1975. The article also covers Bruce Springsteen's epic encore in Cleveland in 1978, Siouxsie and the Banshees' collaboration with Robert Smith in 1983, and Fleetwood Mac's reunion with a marching band in 1997.

  • In 1973, Led Zeppelin broke box office records on their "Houses of the Holy" U.S. tour.
  • On New Year's Eve 1971, The Band played a show at Boston's Academy of Music.
  • On March 30, 1985, Prince performed a concert at the Carrier Dome in Syracuse, New York.
  • In August 1986, The Cure played a show at the Théâtre Antique d'Orange in France.
  • In November 1974, Pink Floyd played a show at London's Empire Pool in Wembley Stadium.

The players

Led Zeppelin

The iconic English rock band known for their heavy, blues-influenced sound and epic live performances.

The Band

The Canadian-American roots rock group who were known for their collaborations with other artists like Bob Dylan.

Prince

The legendary American singer, songwriter, musician, and performer who rose to fame in the 1980s.

The Cure

The English rock band known for their dark, atmospheric sound and the distinctive appearance of frontman Robert Smith.

Pink Floyd

The English progressive rock band known for their ambitious, psychedelic-tinged music and elaborate live shows.

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What they’re saying

“There's nothing like a rock concert encore; that feeling that explodes over the crowd when showers of applause and chanting bring the band back on stage.”

— Mark Gurarie, Author

The takeaway

These iconic encore performances captured the raw energy, showmanship, and transcendent moments that made classic rock concerts such unforgettable experiences for fans. They represent the special connection between artists and their audiences, as well as the ability of music to create indelible memories that live on long after the final notes have faded.