Primus Tickets

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About Primus

Primus emerged from the burgeoning punk scene in California in 1984 and established themselves as a unique alternative with a signature sound that melded funk, metal, and experimental music. Founding members Les Claypool and Todd Huth favored surreal lyrical themes and took an unconventional creative approach, which often drew loose comparisons to the avant-garde compositions of Frank Zappa and the virtuosic instrumentation of Rush.

Claypool's exceptional skills on bass and clever lyrics worked well with Huth's bluesy style and creative use of dissonance and distortion. It wasn’t long before they replaced their drum machine with an actual human, Jay Lane, and got into the studio to record a demo. They quickly garnered attention, earning a dedicated following drawn to their eccentric stage performances and genre-defying music.

Within a few years, both Huth and Lane departed the project and were replaced by guitarist Larry "Ler" LaLonde and drummer Tim "Herb" Alexander. This was the lineup that debuted on the live, self-released album Suck on This (1989) and came to be known as “classic” Primus—the original group signed to Caroline Records. In addition to re-releasing Suck on This, the band dropped their first studio effort, Frizzle Fry (1990).

After a move to their first major label, Interscope, and mainstream exposure from Sailing the Seas of Cheese (1991), Primus made their way onto the Billboard 200 with Pork Soda (1993) and Tales from the Punchbowl (1995). The group scored their first top ten hit on the Billboard US Alternative Airplay chart and made their way around North America on several tours, each expanding their reach and fanbase.

After several subsequent albums, a few lineup changes, and multiple Grammy nominations, their impact on the entertainment industry has been monumental. Their contributions to pop culture, including the soundtrack of Tony Hawk's Project 8 and the South Park theme song, attest to their enduring influence and cultural relevance. As they continue to defy expectations, their legacy built on innovation, surrealism, and uncompromising artistic vision will, without a doubt, endure.

The Primus Setlist

Fans looking to catch Primus live can anticipate a concert experience that is both nostalgic and fresh, with a setlist that celebrates their extensive catalog. They include their original material as well as beloved covers and a few surprises, and the setlist often features these favorites: 

1. Jerry Was a Race Car Driver

2. Those Damned Blue-Collar Tweekers

3. My Name Is Mud

4. Groundhog's Day

5. Too Many Puppies

6. Here Come the Bastards

7. Southbound Pachyderm

8. Tommy the Cat

9. American Life

10. Harold of the Rocks

Live Moments That Made Headlines

Primus has earned a reputation as one of the most innovative bands in alternative rock. After over three decades, they still manage to deliver eccentric, energetic, and unforgettable live sets. These have been some of their most talked-about performances: 

• December 31, 1989: There’s nothing like ushering in the New Year with Primus, and 1989 was no exception! They took the stage at the former home of Lookout Records on Gilman Street in Berkeley, California, and gave fans a show fit for a massive arena. The setlist included their early material, along with covers by Led Zeppelin, Rush, Metallica, and Black Sabbath.

• June 18, 1993: In their Lollapalooza debut at Thunderbird Stadium in Vancouver, BC, Primus closed out the first night of the festival with amazing visuals, fan favorites, and new material from Pork Soda, their album released just two months prior. With tongue firmly planted in cheek, they opened with “Here Come the Bastards” and closed their 13-song set with “Tommy the Cat.”

• August 14, 1994: At Woodstock ‘94, Primus delivered an iconic set in the middle of a farm that had been soaked by three days of rain. Claypool’s fingers were on fire, and the atmosphere only intensified with the first few notes of "My Name Is Mud.” As the guitar interlude kicked in, the crowd, caked in dirt, bounced and thrashed around, flinging mud in every direction.

• October 13, 1999: During an era that saw Primus playing multiple metal shows, they were invited to join Korn, Limp Bizkit, Filter, and Staind on the Family Values Tour. The concert at the Twin Cities Target Center was the only date to feature both Primus and Korn, and it did not disappoint! “Electric Uncle Sam” with critically acclaimed guitar virtuoso Buckethead was a standout.

• June 12, 2004: Primus impressed the Bonnaroo Festival audience with their distinctive style, 90s alternative vibe, and stellar musicianship. Toward the end of their already-impressive set, following “Whamola” and a cover of Rush’s “YYZ,” the band brought out special guest Adrian Belew for “Those Damned Blue-Collar Tweekers,” “The Lone Rhinoceros,” “Thela Hun Ginjeet.”

• October 12, 2012: Primus revolutionized concert experiences with their 3-D tour in quad surround sound, which launched in Poughkeepsie. Fans wearing 3-D glasses enjoyed an enhanced visual spectacle synchronized with songs like "Southbound Pachyderm,” turning New York’s Mid Hudson Civic Center into a unique multi-sensory experience.

• October 22, 2014: The band’s original lineup reunited to record Primus and the Chocolate Factory with the Fungi Ensemble and launched a tour in support of the album. Les Claypool, Larry LaLonde, and Tim Alexander were all on hand at Pennsylvania’s Tower Theatre to perform classic Primus hits plus their take on songs from Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory.

• August 9, 2022: South Park creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone assembled a cast of characters involved in the hit show to celebrate its 25th anniversary. It was quite an event at Colorado’s Red Rocks Amphitheatre! Primus, who famously recorded the theme song, treated fans to a live rendition. They also surprised Stone with Rush’s “Closer to the Heart,” featuring Parker on drums, and teamed up with Ween for “It's Gonna Be a Long Night” and “Here Come the Bastards.”

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do Primus concerts last?

The length of a Primus concert depends on the lineup, but their sets typically last about two hours and include a variety of songs from their extensive catalog plus an eclectic mix of covers.

Are Primus tickets sold out?

Even if a Primus concert has been shown as “sold out,” you can often still find tickets at GoTickets.com, where trusted sellers list seats for resale. Every secure sale is backed by a buyer guarantee.

Does Primus tour?

Primus tours and has shared the stage with the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Rush, U2, Tool, Ween, Korn, Limp Bizkit, and Fishbone, among others. They have also performed at Bonnaroo, Ozzfest, and Lollapalooza.

What is the best place to buy Primus concert tickets?

GoTickets offers listings from trusted sellers and an intuitive platform that makes it easy to find the Primus tickets you want. Plus, your secure purchase will be backed by a 100% buyer guarantee.

Are there any age restrictions for Primus concerts?

Primus concerts are generally open to all ages, although some locations may have their own requirements or specific restricted areas. Check the venue’s website for the latest information. 

Are outside food or beverages permitted inside the venue for a Primus concert?

Concert rules and restrictions, including food and beverage policies, vary by location. Before packing up to see Primus live in concert, check the venue’s website for information on what is and isn’t allowed.

How much are Primus tickets?

The cost of Primus tickets varies based on the lineup, date, venue, and overall demand. Explore current pricing at GoTickets.com, your gateway to all the hottest concerts, tours, and music festivals.