The 2025 Simple Minds Tour is shaping up to be a monumental event for fans of the iconic Scottish band. Dubbed the “Alive & Kicking Tour 2025,” this North American run marks their most extensive outing in the U.S. and Canada in over four decades. With a legacy spanning hits like “Don’t You (Forget About Me)” and “Alive and Kicking,” Simple Minds is pulling out all the stops with a mix of nostalgia, special guests, and electrifying performances. Here’s what you can expect from this highly anticipated tour, kicking off in May 2025.
A Celebration of 40 Years of Once Upon a Time
Simple Minds is celebrating the 40th anniversary of their seminal 1985 album, Once Upon a Time, a record that solidified their global stardom with anthems like “Alive and Kicking,” “Sanctify Yourself,” and “All the Things She Said.” Fans can look forward to hearing these classics live, with the band performing the album in its entirety at select shows, such as their special one-night event at Glasgow’s Bellahouston Park on June 27, 2025. This retrospective set promises to blend seamlessly with a curated selection of their greatest hits, offering a journey through their nearly 50-year career.
Expect Jim Kerr’s charismatic stage presence and Charlie Burchill’s signature guitar riffs to bring these timeless tracks to life. Whether you’re a longtime fan or discovering their catalog anew, the 2025 tour will showcase why Simple Minds remains a powerhouse in new wave and rock.
Special Guests: Soft Cell and Modern English
Adding to the excitement, Simple Minds is joined by two legendary acts from the ‘80s new wave scene: Soft Cell and Modern English. Soft Cell, famous for their synth-pop classic “Tainted Love,” brings a dark, moody energy that complements Simple Minds’ expansive sound. Meanwhile, Modern English, with their enduring hit “I Melt with You,” adds a dreamy, romantic vibe to the lineup. This trio of Reagan-era icons promises a night of nostalgia, taking fans back to the MTV golden age while proving their music still resonates in 2025.
The combination of these acts ensures a diverse setlist that spans genres and decades. From Soft Cell’s brooding beats to Modern English’s jangly optimism and Simple Minds’ anthemic power, each show will feel like a mini-festival of ‘80s greatness.
Tour Scope and Key Dates – 2025 Simple Minds Tour
The Alive & Kicking Tour 2025 kicks off May 16 in Ridgefield, WA, at the Cascades Amphitheater and crisscrosses North America through June. Highlights include:
- May 20: Concord, CA – Toyota Pavilion at Concord
- May 22: Inglewood, CA – Kia Forum
- June 3: Austin, TX – Moody Center
- June 11: Holmdel, NJ – PNC Bank Arts Center
- June 15: Montreal, QC – Centre Bell
With 24 dates planned, this is Simple Minds’ biggest North American run since their 1985 peak, coinciding with the Once Upon a Time release and their Live Aid performance. Tickets went on sale January 31, 2025, with presales starting January 29—grab yours early via SimpleMinds.com or secondary sites like CapitalCityTickets.com for potential discounts.
What Will the Setlist Look Like?
While the full setlist remains under wraps, recent performances and tour announcements offer clues. At their last headlining gig in Portugal (July 30, 2024), Simple Minds played fan favorites like “Waterfront,” “Once Upon a Time,” and “Let There Be Love,” alongside “Don’t You (Forget About Me).” The 2025 tour will likely expand on this, weaving in Once Upon a Time tracks with staples from albums like New Gold Dream (81-82-83-84) and Sparkle in the Rain. Expect a two-hour-plus show packed with energy, nostalgia, and maybe even a surprise cover or two—past acoustic sets have included nods to David Bowie and Prince.
A High-Energy Live Experience
Simple Minds is renowned for their dynamic live shows, and 2025 will be no exception. Jim Kerr, now in his mid-60s, continues to command crowds with infectious enthusiasm, while the band’s current lineup—including drummer Mel Gaynor and newer members—delivers tight, powerful performances. Fans rave about their ability to blend polished musicianship with raw, crowd-pleasing energy. State-of-the-art lighting and sound will elevate the experience, especially at larger venues like Wrigley Field (Chicago, June 6) and the Mann Center (Philadelphia, June 12).
Why You Shouldn’t Miss It – 2025 Simple Minds Tour
The 2025 Simple Minds Tour isn’t just a concert—it’s a celebration of a band that defined an era and continues to evolve. With Soft Cell and Modern English in tow, plus the 40th anniversary of Once Upon a Time, this tour offers a rare chance to relive the ‘80s while witnessing these artists at their live best. Whether you’re in Austin, Montreal, or beyond, expect a night of unforgettable hits, surprise guests, and a vibe that proves Simple Minds is still alive and kicking. Check CapitalCityTickets.com for discount codes and secure your spot now!