Tesla at F&M Bank Amphitheater of Long Beach – Live Review
Tesla, F&M Bank Amphitheater of Long Beach, September 19, 2026
As the sun began to set over the F&M Bank Amphitheater in Long Beach on September 19, 2026, it was clear that this was a night built on the enduring power of classic hard rock. With Extreme opening the festivities and Mötley Crüe headlining, Tesla found themselves in the enviable position of holding down the crucial middle slot. Rather than simply warming up the crowd, the Sacramento rockers delivered a performance that reminded everyone exactly why they remain one of the most respected live bands of their generation.
From the moment Tesla launched into their opening numbers, the chemistry among the band members was undeniable. Jeff Keith’s unmistakable voice remains the band’s secret weapon, carrying the same grit, character, and emotional authenticity that helped define songs such as “Modern Day Cowboy,” “Little Suzi,” and “Love Song.” Rather than relying on nostalgia alone, Tesla attacked every song with conviction, sounding energized and fully engaged with the audience.
The band’s musicianship was equally impressive. Frank Hannon and Dave Rude traded soaring guitar leads with precision and passion, while the rhythm section provided the sturdy backbone that has always separated Tesla from many of their contemporaries. Their set balanced powerful rockers with heartfelt ballads, creating a dynamic flow that kept the crowd invested from start to finish.
One of Tesla’s greatest strengths has always been their ability to connect with fans on a human level, and that quality was on full display throughout the evening. While Mötley Crüe would later bring their trademark spectacle and arena-sized anthems, Tesla won the audience over through pure musicianship and sincerity. Extreme had already energized the crowd with their own brand of virtuoso rock, but Tesla elevated the momentum even further.
By the time they exited the stage, Tesla had accomplished what every support act hopes to achieve: they left fans talking about their performance long after the final note. In a lineup packed with legendary names, Tesla proved they remain a vital and electrifying force in rock and roll.
Tesla Photo Gallery by Jack Lue
(Review by Ken Morton – Photos by Jack Lue)
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