Shillong tunes up for Bryan Adams

By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Dec 9: As Shillong gears up to welcome Bryan Adams for his first-ever performance in the city, excitement is palpable among fans of all ages. The legendary Canadian rock star, known for his timeless hits like Summer of ’69 and Everything I Do (I Do It for You), has had a profound cultural impact on Shillong; a city often referred to as India’s rock capital.
For decades, Adams’ music has resonated with Shillong’s youth, inspiring generations to embrace pop and rock culture. His influence is so deep that many young musicians traded their traditional ‘duitara’ for guitars, channeling their creative energy into Western rock music.
For many older fans, the concert feels like the culmination of years of admiration. “I’ve been listening to Bryan Adams since the ’80s. His songs were a constant at every party, every gathering,” said 64-year-old Robert Kharshiing, an employee. “For someone like me, who grew up with his music, this concert is nothing short of a dream come true.” Sixty-year-old Clara Nongbet, a homemaker, shared similar sentiments. “I remember my college days when we would sit in groups and play his songs on tape recorders. His music gave us hope, love, and friendship,” she said. “Seeing him live will take me back to those golden days.”
Younger fans are equally enthusiastic. “I started playing the guitar because of Bryan Adams,” said the 23-year-old budding musician. “His music shaped my idea of what rock should sound like. Seeing him perform live in Shillong feels unreal.”
It is a similar feeling among young generations, the concert is a family affair. “My dad introduced me to Bryan Adams when I was a child. We’ve bonded over his songs for years, and now we’re going to watch him perform together. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime moment for us.”
The upcoming concert has stirred excitement not just for the performance but also for the recognition it brings to Shillong. “This event puts our city on the global music map,” said another festival-goer. We’re proud to be hosting someone whose music has been a part of our lives for so long.”
The concert scheduled to be held in the JN Stadium, Polo has instituted methods to make sure there is no damage to the turf, which the Chief Minister had promoted as one of the best football turfs in the country. Similarly, the day is set to witness a drone show, and the following bands from the city that are LB3 Collective, Snow White, Blue Temptation to open for the rock and pop legend.