Styx continues to perform without holding back and have no signs of slowing down, and they proved that as part of The 2026 Ohio State Fair’s opening day on Wednesday, July 29 at the WCOL Celeste Center in Columbus, Ohio.
The setlist didn’t disappoint—it was a nonstop 90-minute performance of all the hits from their five decade album catalogue; and then some, including “Build And Destroy” from their new 18th album, just released last year: Circling From Above (Alpha Dog 2T/UMe).
Songs performed included: “Come Sail Away,” “Lady,” “Too Much Time On My Hands,” “Blue Collar Man,” “Renegade,” “Mr. Roboto,” “The Best Of Times,” “Our Wonderful Lives” and others.
It was a serene evening of familiarity and nostalgia that welcomed relaxation and comfort. Although most of the audience remained seated, many sung along and clapped their hands.
Always well coordinated on stage and clearly loving what they do, the six live members of Styx connected with the crowd and remained energetic throughout—founding guitarist/vocalist James “JY” Young (affectionately known as “The Godfather of Styx”), guitarist/vocalist Tommy Shaw, longtime drummer Todd Sucherman, keyboardist/vocalist Lawrence Gowan, guitarist/vocalist Will Evankovich and bassist Terry Gowan.
Styx continues their massive The Windy Cities Tour: All The Hits…Your Kind Of Tour with Chicago through early September, with Styx headlining shows through the rest of the year.
Don Felder–former Eagles’ lead guitarist and song co-writer (circa 1974-2001)—opened the show with at least six guitar changes throughout performances of some classic Eagles’ songs (including “Hotel California,” “Life In The Fastlane,” crowd engaging “Heartache Tonight”) along with solo songs, including 1981’s “Heavy Metal (Takin’ A Ride)” and “Hollywood Victim” from his latest album The Vault - Fifty Years of Music.
Felder, 78, introduced songs with stories about his family, memories of growing up in the South and songwriting tales. He also made mention of him being an early guitar teacher for Tom Petty.
In addition to Felder’s smooth, sharp guitar solos and easy going cool vocals, his phenomenal all star touring band went strong too—the lineup includes Dave Amato (REO Speedwagon guitarist) and members that have worked with Carrie Underwood, Shania Twain, Keith Urban and many others.
The Ohio State Fair continues every day through Sunday, Aug. 9.
Styx Tour Dates
https://styxworld.com/pages/tour
Don Felder Tour Dates
https://www.donfelder.com/tour-dates
Ohio State Fair Entertainment
STYX (added soon)
DON FELDER
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