In June 2020, The Killers performed for the iHeartRadio Living Room Concert Series. They streamed from their Las Vegas studio. Their performance featured songs like “Land of the Free” and “Caution,” alongside a heartfelt cover of Jimmy Buffett’s “A Pirate Looks at Forty.”
Brandon Flowers, lead singer of The Killers, admired Buffett’s songwriting. At the concert, he said “I grew up, like I think a lot of people, knowing about ‘Margaritaville’ and maybe ‘Cheeseburger in Paradise.’ But when you really go a little deeper into the catalog, there is a whole treasure trove by Jimmy Buffett. He’s like a masterclass songwriter, actually, and I’m learning from him.” Fans and critics praised their heartfelt rendition. The Killers’ version of “A Pirate Looks at Forty” is unavailable for purchase or streaming on major platforms, but the performance can be watched on YouTube.
The performance was presented in black and white, enhancing its intimate and timeless feel. This artistic choice focused on the music’s emotional depth and stripped away distractions, creating a deeply immersive experience for viewers.
The iHeartRadio Living Room Concert Series
The iHeartRadio Living Room Concert Series, produced by iHeartMedia and executive producer Joel Gallen of Tenth Planet Productions, was created in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The series aimed to bring music to fans safely at home while supporting charitable causes.
The series debuted with the iHeart Living Room Concert for America in March 2020, hosted by Elton John. Artists performed from their homes, raising $10 million for Feeding America and the First Responders Children’s Foundation.
The Formation of The Killers
The Killers formed in Las Vegas in 2001 when Brandon Flowers responded to a newspaper ad posted by Dave Keuning. Flowers had recently been dropped by a synthpop band and wanted to create music inspired by British rock. Keuning’s ad mentioned Oasis as an influence, sparking Flowers’ interest. They soon recruited Mark Stoermer and Ronnie Vannucci Jr. in 2002, completing the lineup after multiple auditions. Inspired by a fictional band in a New Order music video, they adopted their iconic name. (Look closely at the drummer’s bass drum…)
Musical Style and Breakthrough Success
Their music blends influences from the 1980s and 1990s, revitalizing post-punk rock. They gained fame with their debut album Hot Fuss in 2004. This album included hits like “Mr. Brightside” and “Somebody Told Me.”
Las Vegas Residency: A Homecoming Celebration
In August 2024, The Killers launched their first Las Vegas residency at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace. The residency, “20 Years of Hot Fuss,” celebrated their debut album’s 20th anniversary. Over ten shows, they performed Hot Fuss in its entirety and introduced a new single, “Bright Lights.”
All ten shows sold out, with audiences praising their energy and connection. Performing in their hometown held sentimental value for the band. The residency blended nostalgia and innovation, celebrating their journey from a small Las Vegas band to global rock icons. Their debut album, Hot Fuss, has sold over 7 million copies globally, solidifying their legacy.
The Killers’ 2020 Full iHeart Radio Living Room Concert
Ed. Note: Be sure to check out blog posts about Jimmy Buffett’s actual albums and songs here on Beachitude! Volcano wouldn’t be a bad start….
Photo/Video Credits
“The Killers performing in Las Vegas” by Brettandelle CC BY-SA 4.0
“Brandon Flowers” by Lucy Hamblin. Waytagojoe at en.wikipedia CC BY-SA 3.0.
Photo: “The Killers performing their intimate set for the iHeartRadio Living Room Concert Series” The Killers/iHeartRadio
Video: “iHeartRadio Living Room Concert Series Presents The Killers” The Killers/iHeartRadio
