Def Leppard kicked off their 2025 tour on a high note with an electrifying performance in Leon, Mexico, despite the absence of one of their key members. The atmosphere was charged as the audience eagerly awaited the show. Frontman Joe Elliott addressed the crowd, sharing, ?Vivian Campbell cannot be with us tonight. He?s just recovering from some treatment for his cancer. So, manfully, please say hello to the guy that?s standing in for him tonight, Mr. John Zocco on guitar.? This heartfelt announcement resonated with fans, underscoring the band’s camaraderie and support during challenging times.

John Zocco, who stepped in for Campbell, is not just a talented guitarist but also the guitar tech for Phil Collen. His extensive experience in the music industry spans years, having worked as a photographer for Def Leppard and toured with numerous renowned rock and country artists. His versatility and dedication to the craft made him an ideal substitute for the iconic band.

Understanding Vivian Campbell’s Courageous Fight Against Cancer

Since joining Def Leppard in 1992, Vivian Campbell has become a cornerstone of the band, previously showcasing his talent with legendary groups like Whitesnake and Dio. His public battle with Hodgkin’s lymphoma, which he disclosed in 2013, has been a testament to his resilience and strength. Throughout his ongoing fight against this challenging illness, he has inspired many with his unwavering spirit and determination to continue performing.

READ MORE: 10 Best God-Tier Rock Songs of the 1980s

In 2014, Campbell underwent stem-cell therapy, followed by participation in a clinical trial for the anti-cancer drug pembrolizumab in 2015. His treatment journey has evolved over the years, transitioning to a combination of immunotherapy and chemotherapy by 2022. Throughout this ordeal, he has remained transparent about his experiences, offering both insight and inspiration to those facing similar challenges.

In a candid 2023 interview on the Lymphoma Voices podcast, Campbell expressed, ?There’s no shame in having cancer. There’s no shame in going through treatment and wearing the effects of your treatment physically.? He reflected on the personal impact of chemotherapy, particularly regarding hair loss, and emphasized how performing allows him to reconnect with his identity as a musician. His words serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of authenticity in the face of adversity.

Looking ahead, Def Leppard is set to perform again on May 15 in Puerto Rico, continuing to share their music and connect with fans around the world.

Def Leppard’s Memorable Setlist from January 18, 2025

The setlist for the January 18 performance was a thrilling journey through Def Leppard’s rich catalog of hits. Here?s a look at the songs that electrified the audience that night:
01. “Rock! Rock! (Till You Drop)”
02. “Rocket”
03. “Let’s Get Rocked”
04. “Foolin’” (with Intro speech about Vivian Campbell?s absence)
05. “Armageddon It” (shortened ending version)
06. “Animal”
07. “Love Bites”
08. “Just Like ’73”
09. “Let It Go”
10. “Die Hard the Hunter” (with no second verse/chorus)
11. “This Guitar” (acoustic/electric version)
12. “Two Steps Behind” (acoustic – full band)
13. “Bringin’ On the Heartbreak”
14. “Switch 625”
15. “Rock of Ages”
16. “Photograph”

Encore:
17. “Hysteria”
18. “Pour Some Sugar on Me”

Encore 2:
19. “Wasted”

via setlist.fm

Def Leppard Rocks with “Armageddon It” on January 20, 2025