10 Rock Shows Interrupted by Police Due to Unexpected Incidents

Rock concerts are known for their energy and unpredictability. Sometimes, that unpredictability leads to shows being halted by law enforcement. Here are ten instances where classic rock performances were interrupted or stopped by police.

The Rolling Stones – Altamont Free Concert (1969)

On December 6, 1969, the Rolling Stones organized a free concert at Altamont Speedway in California. The event was intended to be a West Coast version of Woodstock but turned chaotic. The Hells Angels were hired for security, leading to violence and the tragic death of Meredith Hunter, who was stabbed by a Hells Angel during the Stones’ performance. The incident marked a dark turn in rock history.

The concert’s disarray highlighted the dangers of inadequate planning and security at large events. The tragedy at Altamont is often cited as the end of the 1960s’ era of peace and love. The Rolling Stones’ documentary “Gimme Shelter” captured the chaos of that day.

Led Zeppelin – Boston Garden (1975)

In January 1975, Led Zeppelin fans rioted at the Boston Garden after being denied entry to buy tickets for an upcoming show. The unrest led to significant property damage and injuries. As a result, Boston’s mayor banned the band from performing in the city for five years.

The incident underscored the band’s immense popularity and the challenges of managing large crowds. It also highlighted the need for better crowd control measures at ticket sales events.

Guns N’ Roses and Metallica – Montreal (1992)

On August 8, 1992, during a co-headlining tour in Montreal, Metallica’s set was cut short due to frontman James Hetfield suffering burns from a pyrotechnic accident. Guns N’ Roses took the stage later but ended their performance early, citing sound issues. The abrupt endings led to a riot among the audience, resulting in injuries and property damage.

The event highlighted the volatility of large-scale concerts and the importance of contingency planning. Both bands faced criticism for their handling of the situation.

Pink Floyd Cover Band – Rumson, New Jersey (2020)

In April 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic, two men performed Pink Floyd covers on their front lawn in Rumson, New Jersey. Approximately 30 people gathered, violating lockdown orders. Police intervened, shutting down the impromptu concert and dispersing the crowd.

The incident reflected the tensions between public health measures and individual freedoms during the pandemic. It also demonstrated the enduring appeal of live music, even in challenging times.

AC/DC – Gillette Stadium, Massachusetts (2025)

During AC/DC’s “Power Up” tour stop at Gillette Stadium in May 2025, a violent outburst occurred in the crowd, leading to police intervention. A fan was arrested, and the incident disrupted the concert, raising concerns about crowd safety at large-scale events.

The band’s performance was momentarily paused, but they resumed after the situation was under control. The event underscored the need for effective security measures at concerts.

Rolling Stones – University of Virginia (2005)

In October 2005, the Rolling Stones’ concert at the University of Virginia was interrupted when police, along with bomb-sniffing dogs, conducted a search of the stage area. The show was paused for about 30 minutes before resuming.

The interruption was due to security concerns, highlighting the importance of safety protocols at large events. The band’s cooperation ensured the concert continued without further issues.

Metallica – Rogers Centre, Toronto (2025)

At a Metallica concert in Toronto’s Rogers Centre in 2025, an altercation in the audience led to police intervention. A concertgoer was arrested after a dispute with staff escalated. The incident caused a brief disruption but did not halt the concert entirely.

The event underscored the need for effective crowd management and the role of security in maintaining order during large performances.

Rage Against the Machine – 2008 Republican National Convention Protest

In September 2008, Rage Against the Machine planned to perform at a protest near the Republican National Convention in St. Paul, Minnesota. Before they could take the stage, police shut down the event due to security concerns.

Undeterred, the band delivered an impromptu a cappella performance using a megaphone, leading the crowd in chants and songs. This act of defiance showcased their commitment to political activism.

Guns N’ Roses – Riverport Amphitheatre, Missouri (1991)

During a July 1991 concert in Maryland Heights, Missouri, Guns N’ Roses’ frontman Axl Rose spotted a fan taking unauthorized photos. Frustrated, he jumped into the crowd to confront the individual.

After returning to the stage, Rose abruptly ended the show, leading to a riot involving fans and police. The incident resulted in numerous injuries and significant property damage.

Rage Against the Machine – Democratic National Convention, Los Angeles (2000)

During the 2000 Democratic National Convention, Rage Against the Machine planned a free concert in protest. Initially denied permits, they eventually performed near the convention site.

The event drew heavy police presence, and tensions escalated, leading to clashes between protesters and law enforcement. The incident underscored the band’s role in political activism.