It’s really something seeing the extraordinary catalog that Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Steve Hackett has amassed over a roughly 55-year period.
As a member of Genesis, there were albums like 1971’s Nursery Cryme, 1973’s Selling England By The Pound and, last but certainly not least, the landmark 1974 album The Lamb Lies Down On Broadway.
Speaking of the latter album, Hackett and his longtime band will be making a stop here in Phoenix on Tuesday. November 11 at Celebrity Theatre. Fans of Hackett’s music will be thrilled to know that he’ll be playing a generous selection of songs from it.
I asked Hackett in a recent e-mail exchange how his 2025 summer tour, entitled Genesis Greats, Lamb Highlights and Solo had gone over. I imagine (and I’m sure many fans are hoping) that it will be a long set, and a challenging one as well(?)
Hackett said. “The Japan and Italy tours went well, thanks, with a great audience reaction! I’ve chosen nine favorite tracks from the Lamb album, which work very well live. Songs like “Firth of Fifth”, “Supper’s Ready” and “Los Endos” are in there too.”
He added. “It all works a treat. My solo stuff is in there as well, and it’s not too long, so it’s not too much of a challenge.”
To be clear, Hackett’s shows are roughly 2.5 hours long. Which is more than generous compared to many other veteran bands on the touring circuit today.
Hackett is also excited about his July 2025 release, The Lamb Stands Up Live At The Royal Albert Hall, which was recorded in October 2024 at the historic venue. A cleverly titled album I should say!
“I’m glad you like the play on words! Yes, the Royal Albert Hall shows was a great success. It was fabulous to have special guests Steve Rothery, Ray Wilson, Amanda Lehman and John Hackett too! Also, the film makers are always good to work with, so the preparation work wasn’t too hard.”
Those of you who have seen Steve Hackett live know that the caliber of musicians he takes out on tour is always top-notch. The Genesis Greats, lamb Highlights and Solo fall outing will be no exception, featuring several long time musicians.
He continued. “Yes, for the North American tour there will be Roger King (keyboards), Rob Townsend (saxophone, flute, keyboards), Jonas Reingold (bass), Nad Sylvan (lead vocalist). They’ve all been in the band for quite some time. We’ll also have Nick D’Virgilio on drums. They’re all brilliant performers.”
Given that Hackett is nothing if not prolific as a solo artist, I asked him if there are any thoughts to his next studio venture, a follow up to his 2024 album The Circus and the Nightwhale. His answer shouldn’t be that surprising, given his astonishing work ethic and enormous catalog of music.
“Yes, I’ve already recorded several tracks for an upcoming new album. I’m also working on an album with Steve Rothery, guitarist for Marillion”, he added.
As I alluded to earlier, with such an extensive catalog of music, would Hackett consider doing a set list rotation at any point for the upcoming U.S. tour? Rightly or wrongly, don’t count on it.
“It will be the same as the summer show. But of course, most Americans have not yet had the chance to see the show! It’s a chance to celebrate the Lamb, along with other great Genesis favorites, and solo music.”
Hackett concluded. “I love to play in Phoenix too… it’s a very special place for me, with such fantastic scenery and a particularly wonderful vibe. I very much look (forward) to playing there again!”
IF YOU GO:
WHO: Steve Hackett
WHEN: Tuesday November 11, 2025
WHERE: Celebrity Theatre 440 N. 32nd St. in Phoenix
Doors: 5:30 p.m. Showtime**: 7:30 p.m.
TICKETS: Between $33.00-$138.00, available at www.celebritytheatre.com and at the Celebrity Theatre box office.
