Here's what Guns N' Roses played as they headlined Download 2026

In the midst of their 2026 tour, Guns N' Roses headlined Download Festival in the UK, marking 20 years since their last appearance. The iconic rock band's three-hour setlist, which included a mix of old and new tracks, had fans singing along to every note. For the thousands who packed Donington Park, the experience was evidence of the enduring power of Guns N' Roses' music.

Guns N' Roses' decision to headline Download 2026, alongside Limp Bizkit and Linkin Park, is a strategic move that speaks volumes about the band's resilience in the ever-changing music landscape. With a career spanning over four decades, Guns N' Roses has consistently adapted to the shifting tides, from their early days as a raw, energetic force to their current status as a polished, yet still electrifying, live act. The fact that they chose to kick off their set with the iconic "Welcome to the Jungle" is a nod to their roots, a reminder of where they came from and the music that has kept them relevant.

Guns N' Roses' setlist at Download 2026 was a deliberate attempt to appeal to a new generation of fans, while still satisfying the die-hard enthusiasts who have been following the band since the 80s. The inclusion of newer tracks like "Nothin'" and "Atlas" alongside classic hits like "Sweet Child O' Mine" and "November Rain" was a calculated move to showcase the band's continued relevance in the music scene. However, the band's performance was met with mixed reviews, with some critics accusing them of playing to the wrong crowd. Jack J Hutchinson, a music enthusiast who attended the festival, noted that the band's set was a "brilliant 3 hour" performance, but also acknowledged that he "did get a boot in the back of my head at one point from a crowd surfer..rock n roll!"

Axl Rose's vocal range has always been a topic of debate among fans and critics alike. While some have praised his ability to maintain a low vocal range, others have panned his performance as lacking the raw energy of his younger years. Rock Photography (@Photomusicrock) captured the essence of Axl's performance, stating that his "low vocal range is the way!" However, the band's decision to include covers like "Knockin' On Heaven's Door" and "Live and Let Die" may have been a deliberate attempt to showcase Axl's vocal range, rather than a genuine attempt to pay homage to the original artists.

As Guns N' Roses continue their 2026 tour, it's clear that they're not done yet. With a setlist that blends the old with the new, the band is making a conscious effort to appeal to a new generation of fans while still satisfying the die-hard enthusiasts who have been following them since the 80s. As they move forward, it will be interesting to see how they continue to adapt to the changing music landscape and what new surprises they have in store for their fans.

In the end, Guns N' Roses' performance at Download 2026 was evidence of the band's enduring power and influence in the music scene. While they may not be the same raw, energetic force they were in their early days, they continue to bring the noise and deliver a live performance that's unmatched by many of their contemporaries. As they continue their 2026 tour, it's clear that Guns N' Roses are still, and fans old and new will continue to flock to see them perform live.