The Killers perform cover of Willie Nelson’s song ‘Mr. Brightside’ at ACL Fest
The Killers headlined the Austin City Limits Music Festival on Sunday, October 5, 2025. A prominent late addition to the event, the Las Vegas rock band mesmerized the audience at the American Express stage with their dynamic performance. Known for their enduring 2004 album “Hot Fuss,” The Killers showcased their musical prowess by reinventing classic tracks and engaging the crowd with their electrifying presence. One notable moment was their rendition of Willie Nelson’s iconic song “Whiskey River,” with a massive Lone Star State flag as a backdrop, giving a fresh twist to the country standard.
Following their homage to Nelson, The Killers honored the local legend once again with a touching rendition of “You Were Always On My Mind.” Singer Brandon Flowers humorously noted that Nelson did not pen this particular song before the band delved into their hit track “Runaways.” Embracing the spirit of the festival and the Texan setting, The Killers set the tone for an unforgettable night of musical magic.
Acknowledging the Austin audience, Flowers paid tribute to the city with a heartwarming gesture before launching into captivating performances of crowd favorites “Somebody Told Me” and “When You Were Young.” Despite the unconventional order of their setlist, the band’s invigorating energy and genuine enthusiasm resonated with attendees who appreciated their dedication to delivering an exceptional show.
Having graced the stages of Austin City Limits on multiple occasions, including memorable performances in 2004, 2007, 2017, and now in 2025, The Killers have solidified their status as festival favorites. Their latest appearance at the festival was a testament to their versatility as artists and their ability to command the stage with their timeless hits.
The band’s last-minute inclusion at the event, filling in for Doja Cat, introduced a fresh dynamic to the festival lineup and drew in a devoted crowd eager to experience The Killers’ unparalleled live performance. With the absence of more mainstream pop fans due to the change in headliner, the audience at Zilker Park was treated to an intimate and unforgettable evening with The Killers.
Highlighted by poignant moments such as harmonious backup singers on “All These Things That I’ve Done” and Flowers’ suave presence in a glittering suit, The Killers captivated the crowd until the final notes of their iconic track “Mr. Brightside.” Bringing the night to a triumphant close, the band left a lasting impression on festival-goers, solidifying their reputation as one of the most captivating live acts in the music industry.