An Authentic Icon on Stage

On February 19th, another promising night unfolded at the Hard Rock Live in Hollywood, Florida. The venue certainly looked full. From early on, groups of fans with colorful hair, extravagant hats, and bold makeup filled the space. At the entrance, several Boy George impersonators and flamboyant characters posed for anyone who wanted to capture the moment, making it clear that the audience wasn’t there just to listen, but to celebrate and truly be part of the experience.

As is often the case in his performances, the show included some interesting covers. The concert opened with “You’re So Loud” by Scissor Sisters, a glam-infused nod delivered with plenty of attitude. Immediately after came two Culture Club classics: “Church of the Poison Mind,” which had everyone dancing from the very first notes, and “It’s a Miracle,” reminding us that the spirit of the ’80s is still very much alive.

Reggae, a constant influence throughout Boy George’s career, had its moment with “Eye & Eye” by The Gladiators, reaffirming those Jamaican roots he so naturally weaves into his shows. Then came one of his more personal solo songs, “London Is Not Burning,” whose social undertones brought a more reflective mood to the evening.

Photo: Julisa Sandra Marquez

The journey continued with another Culture Club super classic, “Time (Clock of the Heart),” followed by two intimate Boy George compositions: “King of Everything” and “Letting Things Go.” These songs connected with the audience on a deeper, more introspective level, revealing another layer of his artistry.

The night flowed effortlessly between nostalgia and fresh reinterpretations. A different, yet emotionally charged version of “Do You Really Want to Hurt Me” opened the door to a musical dialogue with other pop icons. This time, it was George Michael’s “Faster,” before returning to Culture Club with “Miss Me Blind” and closing that section of the set with “Move Away.”

The band came back with a strong and engaging encore. The tributes continued with a beautiful rendition of “Let’s Dance” by David Bowie. The moment turned especially emotional when Boy George shared how deeply Ziggy Stardust had impacted him at just 11 years old. Later, he offered a meaningful nod by performing “She’s Lying” in reference to John Moss, Culture Club’s drummer, evoking their years of collaboration. The band also shined with a powerful version of “Sympathy for the Devil” by The Rolling Stones, followed by an unexpected and vibrant “Children of the Revolution” by T. Rex, which pushed the energy even higher.

Photo: Julisa Sandra Marquez

But the night couldn’t end without getting everyone out of their seats. “Karma Chameleon” unleashed collective euphoria and transformed the venue into a massive dance floor. It was a concert filled with surprises and heartfelt tributes — a balanced mix of classics, reinterpretations, and personal moments.

Culture Club original members Mikey Craig on bass and Roy Hay on guitar joined Boy George on stage, backed by a simply superb group of musicians. Each song unfolded within a rich and dynamic musical atmosphere, supported by solid arrangements and flawless execution that enhanced Boy George’s stage presence throughout the night, bringing cohesion and depth to the entire performance.

As it was my first time seeing Boy George & Culture Club live, I walked away feeling that I had witnessed an authentic and honest artist. A varied, fun, and musically solid show. And as we have come to expect, the Hard Rock Live in Hollywood, Florida once again delivered a highly recommendable performance.