Foreigner headlined the Saturday night concert at the 50th Anniversary Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach on April 12, 2025, delivering a high-energy performance that complemented the motorsport festivities. The concert took place at 6:30 p.m. PT at the Terrace Theater Plaza, an outdoor stage in the heart of the Grand Prix’s vibrant atmosphere, and was free for all Saturday ticket holders, enhancing the weekend’s appeal for race fans. Below is a detailed overview of Foreigner’s appearance, the context of the event, and specifics about their performance, based on available information.
• Kelly Hansen – Lead vocals, percussion
• Jeff Pilson – Bass, backing vocals, keyboards
• Michael Bluestein – Keyboards, keytar, backing vocals
• Bruce Watson – Lead and rhythm guitars, backing vocals
• Chris Frazier – Drums, percussion
• Luis Maldonado – Rhythm and lead guitars, backing vocals, occasional lead vocals
Mick Jones, the band’s founder and lead guitarist, has not made appearances as a general rule due to Parkinson’s disease, diagnosed in 2024. The intensity and tone of this performance, however, did not miss a beat or tone inflection since this touring band covers the original FOREIGNER perfect in every note.
A standout moment was Foreigner’s collaboration with students from Jordan High School’s choir, who joined the band for “I Want to Know What Love Is.” Juan-Jose Garcia, the choir director, described the experience as unforgettable, noting the students’ exposure to “rock ‘n roll energy” and the recognition of their talent. This collaboration added a local community element, resonating with the packed crowd at Terrace Theater Plaza.
The performance was praised for its energy and connection with the audience. A Press Telegram report noted that the plaza was filled with fans showing their love for Foreigner, who reciprocated with a dynamic set. With over 80 million albums sold worldwide and more top 10 hits than peers like Aerosmith or Journey, Foreigner’s timeless appeal amplified the celebratory mood of the Grand Prix’s milestone weekend.
Additional Event Details
• Concert Access and VIP Perks: The concert was accessible to all Saturday ticket holders (general admission starting at $75), making it a significant draw for attendees. VIP packages, including a charity auction for the Road Racing Drivers Club, offered perks like a meet-and-greet with Foreigner, a four-night stay at the Hilton Long Beach, and access to the Seaside Suites for race viewing. The auction, which raised funds for the Mark Donohue Foundation and The Grand Prix Foundation of Long Beach, sold for $10,074.
Critical Notes
Foreigner’s performance was a highlight of the Grand Prix’s 50th anniversary, but the absence of Mick Jones likely tempered the experience for some longtime fans, given his foundational role.
The band’s reliance on Hansen and the current lineup, while polished and well-received, reflects their evolution into a modern iteration, which some critics view as less authentic without original members. Nonetheless, the inclusion of local students and the free concert access for ticket holders underscored Foreigner’s commitment to community engagement and fan accessibility, aligning with the Grand Prix’s community-driven ethos.
The event also highlighted logistical challenges, such as road closures and parking restrictions in downtown Long Beach, which attendees navigated to enjoy the racing and entertainment. The Grand Prix’s economic impact, estimated at nearly $100 million for the region, was bolstered by high-profile acts like Foreigner, drawing diverse crowds.
… notes from The EDJE