Steven Tyler, the legendary Aerosmith frontman, standing in the shadow of one of the world’s most iconic ancient landmarks, belting out the classic hit with an orchestra backing him. But what really steals the show is the sight of two cellists, Luka Šulić and Stjepan Hauser of 2CELLOS, absolutely shredding their instruments, making cellos sound like screaming electric guitars. It’s a surreal blend of rock ‘n’ roll and classical music, set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Colosseum.
This performance was part of the grand finale of Celebrity Fight Night in Rome, a star-studded charity event that brought together some of the biggest names in music, film, and sports. The Colosseum, with its rich history and awe-inspiring architecture, provided the perfect stage for a night of unforgettable moments. One of the most talked-about highlights was Steven Tyler’s rendition of Dream On. As he stepped up to perform, he casually took a piece of gum out of his mouth and stuck it under Elton John’s piano—yes, that Elton John. It’s the kind of rockstar move that only Tyler could pull off, and it’s now forever tied to the memory of that night at the Colosseum.
The concert also featured Andrea Bocelli, who joined forces with 2CELLOS to perform the Game of Thrones theme and Funiculi Funicula. The combination of Bocelli’s powerful voice and the haunting melodies of the cellos echoing through the ancient amphitheater was nothing short of magical. The night ended with a moving performance of Imagine, with Steven Tyler and Andrea Bocelli singing together, accompanied by David Foster on piano and a stage full of stars, including Sharon Stone, Renato Zero, and Chris Botti.
The Colosseum, with its grandeur and historical significance, added an extra layer of awe to the event. It’s not every day that you get to see a rock legend like Steven Tyler perform in such a legendary setting. The juxtaposition of modern music and ancient architecture created a once-in-a-lifetime experience for everyone lucky enough to be there.
So, while the Colosseum has seen countless historic moments over the centuries, this concert—complete with Steven Tyler’s gum-sticking antics and the electrifying performances of 2CELLOS—will surely go down as one of its most memorable modern-day events. And who knows? Maybe that piece of gum is still there, tucked under Elton John’s piano, adding a quirky footnote to the Colosseum’s storied history.
