Image: Lead singer, Simon Le Bon

Duran Duran at the Acrisure Arena

Story and Photos by Pat Krause

It was another amazing night at Acrisure Arena when Duran Duran took the stage on Tuesday night, the 30th. The arena holds about 11,000 seats for concerts, and I didn’t see a single empty one. Duran Duran has been at the top of the music scene for more than 40 years. Formed in England, the band was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2022. What a way for fans to start the New Year—seeing them live right here in the Valley.

Duran Duran remains one of the most influential bands in music history, known worldwide for their timeless hits and creative style. They brought their new Invisible tour to the desert, opening the year in true Duran Duran fashion. Staying true to their flair for drama, all four members came onto the stage in shadow, with no lights on them at first—just four figures making their way forward to begin the show.

They opened with “Confession,” followed by “Wild” and “AVTAK.” During the third song, a loud pop signaled a technical glitch, and the band briefly left the stage. It didn’t last long. The issue was quickly fixed, and they were back, continuing the performance without missing a beat. Considering this was the first stop of the tour, it was completely understandable.

The setlist included “Hungry,” “Union,” and one of my personal favorites, “Evil Woman.” The concert closed strong with “SAP” and the classic “Rio.” Many songs came from their newest album, but longtime fans were also treated to familiar favorites like “Notorious,” “Friends,” “Invisible,” “Sunrise,” and “White Lines,” just to name a few.

The crowd was electric. Fans yelled and screamed throughout the night, showing just how loyal and passionate the Duran Duran fan base remains. A woman in the front row told me just how big of a fan she was—especially when she mentioned what she paid for her seat. Front-row fans all had their cell phones ready, capturing photos and videos of their heroes.

For many in attendance, this truly felt like a once-in-a-lifetime concert. They didn’t just hear the music—they experienced the magic of Duran Duran.