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Fountains Of Wayne Returns to Stage for First Show Since Adam Schlesinger's Passing

Fountains Of Wayne Returns to Stage for First Show Since Adam Schlesinger's Passing

Valeriy Bagrintsev Valeriy Bagrintsev
4 minute read

Fountains Of Wayne Returns to Stage for First Show Since Adam Schlesinger's Passing

Experience Fountains Of Wayne's heartfelt comeback as they perform live for the first time since Adam Schlesinger's death, featuring classic hits from their early albums.

The Band's Triumphant Return After 12 Years

After a long 12-year hiatus, Fountains Of Wayne reunited for their first live show since the tragic passing of their bassist and founding member, Adam Schlesinger. Known not only for his band contributions but also as an Emmy-winning composer for film and TV, Schlesinger died in 2020 at the age of 52 due to complications related to COVID-19.

Fountains Of Wayne performing live on stage

Fountains Of Wayne rocking the stage during their comeback show.

A Touching Tribute With Max Collins on Bass

Earlier in the year, the band announced their return to live music, with Max Collins from Eve 6 stepping in to fill Schlesinger’s shoes on bass. Their comeback show took place at the Mizner Park Amphitheater in Boca Raton, Florida on May 24, where they opened for the legendary Weezer.

This performance marked their first full live set since concluding their Fall Tour back in October 2013. The setlist was a nostalgic journey through Fountains Of Wayne's first three albums:

  • Fountains Of Wayne (1996)
  • Utopia Parkway (1999)
  • Welcome Interstate Managers (2003)

Live Setlist: A Walk Down Memory Lane

The band treated fans to a 15-song setlist featuring beloved tracks, including:

  • I’ve Got A Flair
  • Denise
  • No Better Place
  • Barbara H.
  • She’s Got A Problem
  • Red Dragon Tattoo
  • Valley Winter Song
  • Hackensack
  • Troubled Times
  • It Must Be Summer
  • Mexican Wine
  • Radiation Vibe
  • Survival Car
  • Stacy’s Mom
  • Sink To The Bottom

Thanks Boca Raton for a lovely evening! Pleasure meeting so many of you and sweating on many of you.

— Fountains Of Wayne

Enjoy the full live performance from their incredible comeback show at Boca Raton Centennial Celebration:

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Upcoming Tour Dates: Japan and Beyond

Following their Florida show, Fountains Of Wayne is heading overseas to Japan for two dates at the Mano-Mugen Festival in Yokohama on May 31 and June 1. They will also appear at Summerfest in Milwaukee on July 4 and Oceans Calling in Maryland on September 26, bringing their timeless sound to fans across the globe.

Remembering Adam Schlesinger: Tributes and Legacy

Adam Schlesinger’s impact extended far beyond his band. His signature song, "That Thing You Do!", featured in the 1996 film of the same name, earned global acclaim and touched countless fans and artists alike.

Several notable tributes were made after his passing:

  • Actor and director Tom Hanks, who starred in That Thing You Do!, honored Schlesinger’s work.
  • Green Day’s Billie Joe Armstrong covered "That Thing You Do" during his No Fun Mondays quarantine series in 2020.
  • In 2023, Lauren Mayberry and Matthew Koma teamed up for a heartfelt rendition of the same song at a Brooklyn gig.

These tributes highlight how deeply loved and respected Schlesinger was within the music community.

Celebrate the Music That Lives On

Fountains Of Wayne’s return marks not only a revival of their classic tunes but also a celebration of Adam Schlesinger’s enduring legacy. Their heartfelt performance is a testament to the power of music in healing and remembrance.

Conclusion

What’s your favorite Fountains Of Wayne song, and how has Adam Schlesinger’s music impacted you? Share your thoughts and memories below!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Who is filling in for Adam Schlesinger on bass?
    Max Collins from the band Eve 6 is playing bass for Fountains Of Wayne during their current tour.
  • When and where was Fountains Of Wayne’s comeback show?
    Their first show back was on May 24 at Mizner Park Amphitheater in Boca Raton, Florida.
  • What albums did Fountains Of Wayne focus on during the comeback set?
    They played songs from their first three albums: Fountains Of Wayne (1996), Utopia Parkway (1999), and Welcome Interstate Managers (2003).
  • What notable tribute covers have been done for Adam Schlesinger?
    Billie Joe Armstrong and Lauren Mayberry with Matthew Koma have covered “That Thing You Do” in tribute to Schlesinger’s work.
  • Where else is Fountains Of Wayne touring this year?
    They have shows lined up at the Mano-Mugen Festival in Japan, Summerfest in Milwaukee, and Oceans Calling in Maryland.

Ready to celebrate your favorite Fountains Of Wayne memories? Shop your favorite album cover poster and more at our store here.

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