At 70, Steven Tyler proved his talent, singing “Dream On” nervously at the Roman Colosseum
Steven Tyler’s performance at the Roman Colosseum in 2017 was a remarkable fusion of rock and classical music, leaving a lasting impression on the audience. Collaborating with the Croatian duo 2CELLOS, Tyler delivered a stunning rendition of Aerosmith’s *“Dream On”*, a song that has been synonymous with his powerful vocal style. The setting of the Roman Colosseum, steeped in history and grandeur, amplified the emotional impact of the performance, creating an unforgettable atmosphere for all in attendance. This performance was part of Andrea Bocelli’s Celebrity Fight Night, a prestigious charity event, which added even more significance to the night.
What made the performance truly special was the combination of Tyler’s iconic rock voice with the refined sound of 2CELLOS, who brought a classical edge to the stage. Luka Šulić and Stjepan Hauser, the talented cellists behind 2CELLOS, are known for blending classical and rock music in innovative ways. Their collaboration with Tyler breathed new life into *“Dream On,”* a song that has been performed countless times, yet felt fresh in this setting. The live orchestra backing Tyler’s vocals, along with the powerful cello accompaniment, added emotional depth and gravitas to the song, making it resonate even more in the ancient venue.
For Tyler, this performance was another testament to his enduring talent and versatility as a musician. Known primarily as the lead vocalist of Aerosmith, one of the most iconic rock bands in history, Tyler’s willingness to experiment with different musical styles has kept him relevant throughout his long career. His decision to collaborate with classical musicians like 2CELLOS shows his openness to musical fusion and his desire to keep pushing boundaries, even after decades in the industry.
Playing the piano during *“Dream On,”* Tyler added a personal touch to the performance, showing his multifaceted musical abilities. The raw emotion in his voice, combined with the grandeur of the setting and the intensity of the orchestral arrangement, gave the song a new level of emotional depth. It was not just a performance—it was a celebration of music’s ability to transcend genres and bring people together in powerful ways.
Tyler’s collaboration with 2CELLOS didn’t stop at *“Dream On.”* They also performed Aerosmith’s hit *“Walk This Way,”* another iconic song that got a fresh interpretation with the duo’s cellos. The combination of Tyler’s gritty, rock-driven vocals with the elegance of the cello created an exciting contrast, elevating the performance beyond a typical rock show. The energy of the performance, the dynamic interplay between Tyler and the cellists, and the fusion of classical and rock elements made it a standout moment in the event.
Beyond the technical brilliance of the performance, Tyler’s ability to connect with the audience was palpable. He openly admitted to feeling nervous performing in such a historic and iconic venue, but that vulnerability only seemed to enhance the power of his performance. Despite his nerves, Tyler’s voice soared, and the audience responded with overwhelming enthusiasm. The setting of the Colosseum, combined with the orchestral backing and the electric energy of 2CELLOS, created an atmosphere that made the performance truly unforgettable.
This collaboration also highlighted 2CELLOS’ unique talent for blending classical and rock music. Luka Šulić and Stjepan Hauser have built a reputation for pushing the boundaries of what classical instruments can do, and their performance with Tyler at the Colosseum was no exception. Their cello playing added layers of complexity and richness to Aerosmith’s rock classics, demonstrating that classical instruments can seamlessly integrate into a rock performance without losing their distinctiveness. For the duo, performing with a rock legend like Tyler was not only a career highlight but also an opportunity to showcase their versatility and musical innovation to a broader audience.
The performance was also a significant moment for Celebrity Fight Night, the charity event hosted by Andrea Bocelli. Bringing together a diverse range of musical talents, the event aimed to raise funds for important causes, and the inclusion of artists like Tyler, 2CELLOS, and Elton John helped draw attention to the charitable efforts. For Tyler and the other performers, the night was not just about delivering an unforgettable performance, but also about using their platform to support a meaningful cause.
Steven Tyler’s career has been defined by his willingness to take risks and explore new musical avenues, and his collaboration with 2CELLOS at the Roman Colosseum is a perfect example of this. As a rock icon, Tyler has always been known for his raspy, powerful voice and dynamic stage presence, but this performance showed a more experimental and collaborative side of him. By blending his rock roots with classical elements, Tyler demonstrated that great music knows no boundaries and that the fusion of different genres can result in something truly magical.
In summary, Steven Tyler’s performance at the Roman Colosseum with 2CELLOS was a celebration of music’s power to transcend genres and unite artists from different backgrounds. The fusion of rock and classical music, combined with the historic setting of the Colosseum, created a powerful and emotionally charged atmosphere that left a lasting impression on everyone who witnessed it. For both Tyler and 2CELLOS, the performance was a testament to their shared passion for pushing the boundaries of music and creating something that resonates on a deep, emotional level.
