Lakhs of fans flocked to the Me·Gong Festival 2024 in Garo Hills for a performance by the iconic Swedish band Europe, making it some of the region’s most visted events. Famous for their 80s anthems like The Final Countdown and Rock the Night, Europe took centre stage at this year’s festival, delivering a nostalgic performance that electrified the crowd.
As Europe wrapped up their set with The Final Countdown, the audience sang in unison, creating an electric atmosphere and highlighting the band’s enduring bond with their fans. Their timeless hits transported the audience straight back to the golden age of 80s rock.
Fans from across the country had travelled to Garo Hills to witness their idols live. “It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see your childhood stars perform,” said Erenbeni from Dimapur, Nagaland. She fondly recalled jamming to their songs with her father, who was unable to attend. “My father is a big fan, but unfortunately, he couldn’t make it,” she shared.
Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma welcomed the legendary band, expressing how deeply their music resonated with the region. “Many in Meghalaya and the entire Northeast grew up listening to their songs. For them, this performance is a dream come true,” he said, highlighting the lasting influence of 80s and 90s rock in the region.
This was Europe’s second visit to India, their first being in 1988. Sharing their excitement on social media, the band posted, “Friends, we are finally back in India after all these years,” alongside stunning glimpses of Garo Hills.
Lead vocalist Joey Tempest reflected on their return to India: “Performing at the Me·Gong Festival in Garo Hills is incredible. It’s amazing how our music has reached this far corner of the world. I remember the energy of our fans in 1988, and experiencing it again here is exhilarating. This visit will surely inspire our future lyrics.”
Tempest was equally captivated by the natural beauty of Garo Hills, calling it “breathtaking.” In a light hearted moment, he joked, “Garo Hills meets Gora (White)!” He also reaffirmed the band’s legacy, declaring, “Music will never die! Rock music lives on, underlying everything.”
