Article written by Roger Casadejús Pérez
The Significance of Pinkpop Festival
Pinkpop Festival, held annually in Landgraaf, Netherlands, is one of the oldest and most renowned music festivals in Europe. Since its inception in 1970, Pinkpop has hosted a plethora of iconic artists and bands, making it a must-attend event for music enthusiasts across the globe. The festival is known for its diverse lineup, featuring a mix of rock, pop, and alternative acts, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
Performing at Pinkpop is a significant milestone for any artist, as it offers exposure to a broad and passionate audience. For Linkin Park, playing at Pinkpop 2012 was an opportunity to connect with European fans and showcase their new material from the album “Living Things,” released shortly before the festival.
Linkin Park’s Pinkpop 2012 Setlist
Linkin Park’s setlist at Pinkpop 2012 was a carefully curated selection of their most popular tracks, blended seamlessly with new material. The band opened with “A Place for My Head,” setting the tone for an electrifying performance. Here’s a detailed look at the songs they performed:
- A Place for My Head – A high-energy opener that immediately engaged the crowd.
- Given Up – A track from “Minutes to Midnight” known for its intense vocals and powerful instrumentation.
- Faint – A fan favorite from “Meteora,” featuring a fast-paced rhythm and catchy chorus.
- From the Inside – Another hit from “Meteora,” showcasing the band’s dynamic range.
- New Divide – Originally created for the “Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen” soundtrack, this song highlights the band’s electronic influences.
- Victimized/QWERTY – A medley that combines the raw energy of “Victimized” with the lesser-known “QWERTY.”
- Somewhere I Belong – A track that encapsulates the band’s signature blend of rock and rap.
- Lies Greed Misery – A new song from “Living Things,” featuring aggressive lyrics and a driving beat.
- Points of Authority – A classic from “Hybrid Theory” that never fails to energize the crowd.
- Waiting for the End – A song from “A Thousand Suns” that showcases the band’s experimental side.
- Breaking the Habit – A deeply personal track about overcoming struggles, delivered with emotional intensity.
- Leave Out All the Rest/Shadow of the Day/Iridescent – A medley that combines three of the band’s most poignant songs.
- The Catalyst – A powerful track from “A Thousand Suns,” known for its epic buildup and thematic depth.
- Lost in the Echo – Another new track from “Living Things,” blending electronic and rock elements.
- Numb – One of the band’s biggest hits, “Numb” is a staple in their live performances.
- What I’ve Done – A chart-topping single from “Minutes to Midnight,” showcasing the band’s evolving sound.
- Burn It Down – The lead single from “Living Things,” featuring a catchy hook and electronic influences.
- In the End – Arguably one of Linkin Park’s most iconic songs, “In the End” is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
- Bleed It Out – A high-octane closer that left the audience wanting more.
Performance Highlights
Linkin Park’s performance at Pinkpop 2012 was marked by their signature energy and passion. Chester Bennington’s powerful vocals and Mike Shinoda’s dynamic presence captivated the audience, while the band’s tight instrumentation created an immersive experience. The setlist was a perfect balance of nostalgia and new material, allowing both long-time fans and newcomers to enjoy the show.
One of the standout moments was the medley of “Leave Out All the Rest,” “Shadow of the Day,” and “Iridescent.” This emotional segment showcased the band’s ability to convey deep emotions through their music, leaving a lasting impact on the audience. Another highlight was “Bleed It Out,” during which the band encouraged audience participation, creating a sense of unity and excitement.
Audience Reception
The audience at Pinkpop 2012 was a diverse mix of fans, ranging from die-hard Linkin Park enthusiasts to casual festival-goers. The band’s performance was met with enthusiastic applause and cheers, with many attendees singing along to every word. The energy in the crowd was palpable, as fans jumped, danced, and waved their hands in the air throughout the set.
Linkin Park’s ability to connect with their audience was evident, as Chester Bennington and Mike Shinoda frequently interacted with the crowd between songs. This personal touch made the performance feel intimate, despite the large festival setting. The band’s genuine appreciation for their fans was clear, and their performance at Pinkpop 2012 solidified their reputation as a must-see live act.
Impact and Legacy
Linkin Park’s performance at Pinkpop 2012 was more than just a concert; it was a testament to the band’s enduring appeal and musical innovation. The setlist, which spanned their entire career, demonstrated their ability to evolve while staying true to their roots. This performance also highlighted the band’s commitment to delivering high-quality live shows, ensuring their place in the pantheon of great rock acts.
For fans, the Pinkpop 2012 performance is remembered as a defining moment in the band’s history. It was one of the last major European festivals the band played before the tragic passing of Chester Bennington in 2017. As such, it holds a special place in the hearts of fans who cherish the memories of seeing the band at the height of their powers.
In the years following the performance, Linkin Park’s influence on the music industry has continued to grow. Their fusion of genres paved the way for a new wave of artists who blend rock, hip-hop, and electronic elements, demonstrating the lasting impact of their music.
Conclusion
Linkin Park’s official set from Pinkpop 2012 remains a significant and unforgettable chapter in the band’s illustrious career. Their performance showcased their musical prowess, emotional depth, and ability to connect with audiences on a global scale. For those who were fortunate enough to witness it live, it was a moment of pure musical magic. For those who missed it, watching the official set offers a glimpse into the power and passion that defined Linkin Park as one of the greatest bands of their era.
As Linkin Park’s legacy continues to inspire new generations of musicians and fans, the Pinkpop 2012 performance stands as a testament to their enduring influence and the indelible mark they left on the world of music.