Soldier Field in Chicago, IL — August 29, 2025

My Chemical Romance sold out Soldier Field for the Chicago stop of their Long Live The Black Parade tour on August 29th. Despite touring music that was released nearly 20 years ago, the band wove together an intricate, tense storyline into their show that transformed the concept album into politically charged commentary on oppression and militarism.

The experience was immersive—gunshots rang loud from a staged execution after an ultimately meaningless election was held for the audience; characters were split between the main stage and B-stage throughout the show; a man on fire ran frantically across the stage while pyro blasted heat onto the crowd; a clown performed a suicide-bombing after stabbing lead singer Gerard Way. It was a theatrical display with the band playing the characters of The Black Parade from DRAAG, forced to perform in their album of the same name from beginning to end by The Grand Immortal Dictator. And that was just the first half of the show.

After a beautiful cello interlude by Clarice Jensen, the band walked onto the B-stage, having ditched their iconic Black Parade uniforms for comfortable, everyday clothing. Here, they introduced themselves as My Chemical Romance from New Jersey. Gerard took a moment to thank the crowd and shout out their crew and supporting musicians, including drummer Jarrod Alexander and keyboardist Jamie Muhoberac. The band played ten random songs from their discography, a mix of hits like “Na Na Na” and “Helena” and fan-favorites like “Cemetery Drive” and “Boy Division.” Now out of character, Gerard chatted with the audience in between songs, sharing relevant stories and just letting himself loose, relaxing and talking to the entire stadium like he’s conversing with a friend.

It was sweet, seeing the band so thrilled to be on stage, their different performance styles blending to create a whirlwind of a set. Lead guitarist Ray Toro was smiling so brightly, his joy felt tangible as he sang harmonies and exchanged happy grins with his bandmates. Bassist Mikey Way clearly thrives on fan interactions; he made sure to cover every inch of that B-stage and get as close as he could to the crowd at the barricade. Rhythm guitarist Frank Iero plays with ferocity, generally staying rooted in place, eyes closed, lost in the music. Gerard alternates between playful and intense, is full of grand, sweeping gestures, and is truly breathtaking to watch. 

The concert came to a close with Billy Corgan of The Smashing Pumpkins joining My Chemical Romance on stage for “Bullet with Butterfly Wings.” This was special, not only for fans who love both artists, but for the Way brothers, who have a long history of loving and being influenced by the band. All in all, it was a perfect night. 

Words & Photography: Uma Snow