All Upcoming Def Leppard Dates
- 3, 5, 7, 10, 12, 14, 17, 19, 21, 24, 26, 28
Def Leppard Returns to Rock Las Vegas with 2026 Caesars Palace Residency
Get ready to pour some sugar on the Strip – Def Leppard is making a thunderous return to Las Vegas with their third residency, “Def Leppard: Live at Caesars Palace,” lighting up the Colosseum February 3 – 28, 2026. The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame legends are set to deliver 12 explosive shows that promise a fresh production, deep cuts, and the timeless hits that have defined their legacy.
Def Leppard: A Legacy of Rock Evolution and Endurance
From the steel city of Sheffield to the global stage, Def Leppard has carved out one of the most enduring and influential careers in rock history. Formed in 1977, the band emerged during the New Wave of British Heavy Metal but quickly distinguished themselves with a melodic, hook-driven sound that blended hard rock with pop sensibilities. Over the decades, they’ve weathered personal tragedies, shifting musical landscapes, and industry upheavals—yet their music continues to resonate across generations.
Origins and Breakthrough
Def Leppard began as Atomic Mass, founded by bassist Rick Savage, drummer Tony Kenning, and guitarist Pete Willis. The addition of vocalist Joe Elliott and guitarist Steve Clark solidified the early lineup, and the band soon adopted the name “Def Leppard”—a stylized twist on Elliott’s original idea, “Deaf Leopard.”
Their debut album, On Through the Night (1980), hinted at their potential, but it was High ‘n’ Dry (1981), produced by Mutt Lange, that began shaping their signature sound. The track “Bringin’ On the Heartbreak” became one of the first rock videos to air on MTV, giving the band crucial exposure in the U.S.
Pyromania and Global Stardom
With the release of Pyromania in 1983, Def Leppard exploded into the mainstream. Featuring hits like “Photograph” and “Rock of Ages,” the album sold over 10 million copies in the U.S. alone and helped define the sound of 1980s rock. Guitarist Phil Collen replaced Pete Willis during recording, completing what many consider the band’s classic lineup.
Hysteria and Triumph Over Tragedy
The journey to their next album, Hysteria (1987), was marked by adversity. In 1984, drummer Rick Allen lost his left arm in a car accident. Defying expectations, Allen learned to play with a custom electronic drum kit and rejoined the band, becoming a symbol of resilience.
Hysteria became a monumental success, spawning seven hit singles including “Pour Some Sugar on Me,” “Love Bites,” and “Animal.” It sold over 30 million copies worldwide, earning Diamond certification and cementing Def Leppard’s place in rock royalty.
Loss, Reinvention, and Longevity
In 1991, tragedy struck again with the death of guitarist Steve Clark. The band continued as a four-piece to record Adrenalize (1992), which debuted at No. 1 in both the U.S. and UK. Later that year, Vivian Campbell (formerly of Dio and Whitesnake) joined the band, bringing fresh energy and stability.
Throughout the 1990s and 2000s, Def Leppard experimented with their sound—Slang (1996) embraced alternative rock, while Euphoria (1999) returned to their classic style. Though these albums didn’t match the commercial heights of their earlier work, they showcased the band’s versatility and commitment to growth.
Modern Era and Continued Impact
Def Leppard’s later releases, including Songs from the Sparkle Lounge (2008), Def Leppard (2015), and Diamond Star Halos (2022), proved they were far from finished. Their live performances remain electrifying, and their fanbase continues to grow, especially after their catalog became available on streaming platforms in 2018.
In 2019, the band was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, a long-overdue recognition of their influence and legacy.
Enduring Influence
With over 100 million records sold, two Diamond-certified albums, and a career spanning nearly five decades, Def Leppard stands among the elite in rock history. Their blend of anthemic choruses, layered harmonies, and polished production has inspired countless artists and continues to fill stadiums worldwide.
Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a newcomer discovering their catalog, Def Leppard’s story is one of perseverance, reinvention, and timeless rock energy.
Final Thoughts
Def Leppard’s return to Vegas is more than a concert series—it’s a celebration of rock’s resilience and reinvention. As Joe Elliott puts it, “We’re really looking forward to coming back for our third Vegas residency… it’s going to be great”.
So, do you wanna get rocked? Vegas is calling.