My Chemical Romance Kicks Off ‘The Black Parade’ Tour with Rare Song Debut

My Chemical Romance has officially launched the North American leg of their massive ‘The Black Parade’ anniversary tour, kicking off with a spectacle at New York’s Citi Field. According to NME, the band marked the occasion by performing the song ‘Bulletproof Heart’ for the first time in four years, delighting fans with a deep cut from their 2010 album ‘Danger Days’. The show sets the stage for a sprawling tour that includes five nights in Los Angeles this fall.

As Consequence reports, the concert began with a full performance of their seminal 2006 album, ‘The Black Parade,’ complete with the theatricality and pyrotechnics fans have come to expect. Following the album play-through, the band moved to a B-stage for a set of fan favorites and rarities, including ‘Heaven Help Us’ and a closing rendition of ‘Demolition Lovers’ from their debut. The tour follows a successful European leg that included multiple sold-out stadium shows.

A Theatrical Tour Kickoff

Per a report from Consequence, the opening night was a characteristically dramatic affair, featuring costumes, choreographed set pieces, and guest appearances, including cellist Clarice Jensen. The setlist blended the iconic tracklist of ‘The Black Parade’ with surprises, ensuring the show was more than a simple nostalgia trip. First reported by NME, the band’s decision to revive ‘Bulletproof Heart’ signals a willingness to dig deep into their catalog for this celebratory run.

The North American tour follows a series of European dates that wrapped in July, which included three nights at London’s Wembley Stadium. The band’s return to the stage has been met with critical acclaim; NME gave their Liverpool show a five-star review, praising frontman Gerard Way’s vocals and the band’s assured performance.

The SoCal Connection

For Southern California fans, the tour routing is particularly significant. My Chemical Romance has five shows scheduled at the iconic Hollywood Bowl in October, including a performance on Halloween. Before that, the band will play Petco Park in San Diego on August 30th, with BABYMETAL as the opening act.

The choice of Southern California venues underscores the band’s deep connection to the region’s alternative and rock scene. The extensive Hollywood Bowl run suggests an event designed to be a major moment for the LA fanbase, likely featuring the full theatrical production seen in New York.

What’s Next on the Road

The tour continues immediately, with the next stop at Nashville’s Nissan Stadium on Thursday, August 13. The band will crisscross the US through October, with a varied lineup of openers for different dates, including Pierce The Veil, Iggy Pop, and The Mars Volta. The tour culminates with the five-night Hollywood Bowl residency, promising a grand finale for the North American leg. With the band actively surprising fans with rare songs, anticipation is high for what they might unveil for their Southern California appearances.

Last updated August 13, 2026.

Sources: NME, Consequence

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