MCR in Seattle: Long Live the Emo Symphony

In Seattle this past Friday night at T-Mobile Park, the millennial anthem sang its siren song, and the army of the Black Parade reported for duty. My Chemical Romance, with opening act Violent Femmes, played a show to remember as they kicked off their new tour: Long Live the Black Parade.

Violent Femmes Opening Stage

Violent Femmes singing Gone Daddy Gone

My Chemical Romance is an alternative rock band often associated with the “emo” scene. Their third studio album, The Black Parade, was released in 2006. This new tour, which wraps up in 2026, celebrates the album’s 20th anniversary. The band is performing The Black Parade in its entirety, incorporating new elements into the experience to give the iconic record fresh life on stage.

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My Chemical Romance kicks off their set with a "National Anthem"

The show plays on the concept that a powerful fascist dictator named Draag has granted the band permission to perform their music once again. The entire production is built around this fictional regime, complete with dramatic stage design and performative storytelling that reinforces the theme.

My Chemical Romance sings the song Dead!

As a playful twist, fans were handed signs at the entrance reading “Yea” or “Nay,” which the band later used in a mock vote during the show—a fun nod to democracy under the watchful eye of Draag.

My Chemical Romance guitar solo in This Is How I Disappear

The performance featured stunning visuals and explosive pyrotechnics. After finishing The Black Parade, the band left the stage—only to return minutes later for an encore. This time, they appeared more relaxed, stepping out onto a secondary center stage. They spoke directly to the crowd, offering heartfelt thanks to everyone who came out to support them.

My Chemical Romance performs The Black Parade

The encore included around 10 songs from their other albums, and the band noted that this part of the setlist will vary from night to night—adding an element of surprise for fans attending multiple shows.

My Chemical Romance performs Mama

My Chemical Romance performs Teenagers

MCR took the stage around 8:15 p.m. and wrapped up the show by 11:10 p.m. It was a calm, wondrous night in Seattle—perfect weather, great energy from the crowd, and plenty of new friendships formed while waiting in line. All were united in joy, grateful to be here, to be part of The Black Parade.

My Chemical Romance performs Famous Last Words

Ending of Famous Last Words