In 2017, the Invictus Games invited two classic rock legends to the stage to perform their biggest hits, pumping their set full of nostalgia and the uplifting power of arena rock.

Bruce Springsteen and Bryan Adams each spent the 1980s becoming legends of the same genre, yet somehow, they’d never performed together before this moment. But this 7.9 million-times-viewed clip has been sending rock fans into a frenzy, awestruck at watching these two icons share the stage at last.

The guitarists joined forces to perform Bryan Adams’ 1983 album-titler, “Cuts Like A Knife” on their dreamy, blue-flushed stage; Bryan’s original vocals sounding just like the record before Bruce takes on a verse of his own, wowing the live audience as the duo’s voices work together like gospel. They even share the mic during the sing-along “na na na” interlude as the crowd chants along, Bryan soon showing off his guitar virtuosity with a standout solo.

Springsteen, renowned for hits including “Born to Run” and “Dancing in the Dark,” seems to be having a whale of a time during this ultra-feel-good clip, sharing lyrics and guitar licks with Bryan before ending the track with a man-to-man hug.

Bryan cuts through the cheers of the audience when he tells them, “I had the pleasure to speak to Bruce before the show and we worked out another song. Bruce [has] done one of mine, now we’re doing one of Bruce’s: this one’s called “Badlands.” Cue the iconic intro riff of Bruce’s 1978 single and the unstoppable, infectious enthusiasm of Bryan Adams in sharing lines in such a classic track.

The energy the pair puts into this performance is as fresh as if they’re still in their heyday, harmonizing on the chorus and completely giving it their all. Bruce, aged 68 in this clip, released his first album when he was only 25, and “Badlands” at the age of 29; while Bryan, aged 58 in this performance, has been on the scene since he was 21. But like all dad rock bands and vocalists, they refuse to let the years drag them down, keeping their golden era alive for a new generation.

Fans have been spellbound by this 11-minute set, noticing Bruce Springsteen’s grace and generosity in sharing the limelight with a fellow 80s legend while still managing to shine brightly in his own light. With the two guitarists sharing a similar fanbase throughout the decades, viewers have flocked to the comments to reveal their surprise at what many fans class as their “two favourite performers” finally joining forces, the whole scene being simply too wholesome to witness.

Bruce Springsteen and Bryan Adams delivered a night to remember, uniting rock fans with a dazzling, unforgettable performance. The sheer magic of these legends sharing the stage is a testament to their enduring influence in music history. To dive deeper into this iconic collaboration and explore more of their musical legacy, follow the links below.