Sting’s “3.0” tour opened its two-night residency in San Francisco last night, with a powerful performance at the intimate Masonic Auditorium, marking a departure from the larger venues he usually fills. This smaller setting fostered a close-knit energy, drawing fans into an emotional, poignant experience. Just one night after the 2024 presidential election, Sting addressed the weighty atmosphere head-on, sharing, “Like you, I had a pretty rough night last night. What a gut punch. And although I’m British, I will say this: I love your country. We want what’s best for your country, and we have to stick together.” His words were met with resounding applause, creating a unifying moment that elevated the concert’s already-charged atmosphere
Backed by his power-trio lineup, Sting showcased an impressive mix of rock classics and crowd favorites, further enhanced by the talents of guitarist Dominic Miller and drummer Chris Maas. Miller, a longtime collaborator, brought a seasoned, expressive edge to the set with his intricate, emotive guitar riffs, perfectly complementing Sting’s unmistakable voice and bass lines. His solos struck a balance between subtlety and virtuosity, bringing richness to songs like “Roxanne” and “Every Breath You Take.” Maas, a newer addition to the band, infused the performance with a fresh energy, seamlessly blending power and precision in his drumming. His work added a heightened rhythmic intensity that lent these familiar hits an electrifying new pulse, capturing both the spirit of The Police and Sting’s solo work
The concert felt like a tribute to Sting’s decades-spanning career, with each song resonating uniquely in the current context. Hits such as “Message in a Bottle” and “If I Ever Lose My Faith in You” took on new depth, tapping into themes of hope and resilience that mirrored the evening’s undertone. The Masonic’s acoustics enhanced the soundscape, with the trio’s setup allowing for both space and clarity in each instrument, giving fans a rare opportunity to experience the raw talent of each musician up close.
Sting’s San Francisco show demonstrated why his music endures; his performance reminded everyone of music’s power to bring people together in challenging times. With one more night at the Masonic, Sting’s Bay Area fans are sure to savor every moment of this rare, intimate experience.
STING 3.0 performs tonight Thursday, Nov. 07 // 8:00 PM at The Masonic
Photos by Louis Raphael
