Steven Tyler’s return to the stage was a moment fans had been waiting for. On February 2, 2025, he stepped back into the spotlight at his annual “Janie’s Fund” Grammy watch party, eager to perform once again. It was his first time singing publicly since a vocal cord injury forced Aerosmith to retire from touring.
The excitement quickly turned into concern as Tyler struggled through his set. His signature powerhouse vocals weren’t the same, and the strain was evident. While his passion remained, the effects of his injury couldn’t be ignored.
It was a bittersweet moment for both the singer and his audience. Fans applauded his resilience, but the performance raised questions about his future on stage. After decades of commanding the mic, Tyler now faces an uncertain road ahead.
A Tough Comeback
Tyler took the stage with a setlist featuring Aerosmith classics and well-known covers. He was joined by guest musicians like Nuno Bettencourt and Lainey Wilson, making the night even more special. The event wasn’t just about music—it was also a fundraiser for Janie’s Fund.
Despite the star-studded lineup, Tyler’s vocal struggles were hard to miss. His voice lacked its former power, a clear reminder of the challenges he’s faced since his injury. Each song was a test, and the effort it took was evident.
Still, the crowd stood by him. Fans cheered for his determination, appreciating his willingness to perform despite his vocal setbacks. The night carried a mix of nostalgia and hope, leaving everyone wondering what the future holds for Tyler’s voice.
A Star-Studded Setlist
Mick Fleetwood and Nuno Bettencourt kicked off the night alongside Tyler with a heartfelt cover of Extreme’s “More Than Words”. Tyler called it “one of my favorite songs in the whole f**ing world.” It was a rare, stripped-down moment before the energy picked up.
The full band took over as Tyler launched into Toys in the Attic, setting the stage for a powerful Dream On duet with Lainey Wilson. The set closed with Sweet Emotion, Walk This Way, and a fiery cover of Led Zeppelin’s Heartbreaker.
Though Aerosmith has retired from touring, the future remains uncertain. Bassist Tom Hamilton hinted at possible new projects, suggesting the band isn’t done connecting with fans. Tyler’s latest performance proves he’s not ready to step away from music just yet.
The Injury That Changed Everything
In September 2023, Aerosmith’s farewell tour took an unexpected turn. Just three shows in, Steven Tyler suffered a vocal cord injury after a fall, fracturing his larynx. The band was forced to postpone the tour, hoping time would bring healing.
Months of rehabilitation followed, but the damage was severe. Despite medical efforts, Tyler’s voice never fully recovered. By August 2024, Aerosmith made the difficult decision to retire from touring for good.
Tyler briefly returned to the stage last spring, performing “Mama Kin” with the Black Crowes. It was a glimpse of his passion for music, but his vocal struggles remained. His future as a performer remains uncertain.