'70s Rock Legends Light Up Crowd 47 Years After No. 1 Hit: ‘They Sound So Pure'
It was the best of times last week in Little Rock, Arkansas, when '70s-era rock band Styx lit up a crowd of nearly10,000screaming fans with iconic tracks including "Mr. Roboto," "Babe," and "Come Sail Away."
Another hit that had fans in a chokehold? The title track and second single released from the band's 1976 album, Crystal Ball. Written by guitarist and co-lead vocalist Tommy Shaw, the track is a smooth, folk-rock ballad featuring Shaw's hypnotizing acoustic guitar and soulful, introspective vocals.
@paul_d_wylie Styx "Crystal Ball" Simmons Bank Arena Little Rock Ar 5/16/26
♬ original sound - paul_d_wylie
In a video uploaded to TikTok, Shaw commands the stage, letting his blond locks frame his face, graphic tee hang loose, and impressive vocals hit all the right notes while the crowd all sing along. Behind him, neon psychedelic graphics play out on a jumbotron.
"Styx performed ‘Crystal Ball' at Simmons Bank Arena in Little Rock on May 16, 2026," the caption for the video reads. "The live rendition captured the classic rock energy fans expect, blending the band's signature harmonies with a responsive arena crowd."
The song remains a fan-favorite today, with admirers sharing their respect on social media. Here's a snapshot of the praise they gave Shaw and company.
"I saw them in ‘78 when Tommy Shaw was an unknown 19 yr old replacement guitarist … HFS 😳😆 Still Awesome," one wrote.
"Tommy Shaw is a legend!!👍👍👍," another commented.
"Styx was a band that over the years I could experience and feel that time hadn't moved on. They sound so pure like the original versions," another said.
"They should be in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame!!" yet another wrote.
"If I were there I would be crying tears of joy in the audience," another shared.
In 1979, Styx scored their one and only No. 1 hit with "Babe," a tender soft-rock ballad released off their Cornerstone album. It spent two weeks at the top of the chart. Blending progressive rock, power ballads, and arena-rock anthems for decades, the Midwest band continue to prove they have no intentions of slowing down.
For tour dates and ticket information, hit up their official website.
Related: Grammy-Winning, Soulful Voice Behind Some of Rock's Biggest '80s Hits Turns 79
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This story was originally published May 21, 2026 at 7:30 PM.