# Rock in Rio 2026 festival performances

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/rock-in-rio-2026-festival-performances
> Updated: 2026-09-04T23:08:53.000Z. Sources: 27. Developments: 2.

João Gordo and the Asteroides Trio prepared a performance for the Rock in Rio 2026 festival, intended to be a tribute to the Ramones. The set was designed to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the band’s 1976 debut album by performing it in its entirety, blending punk with a ‘punkabilly’ sound.

On September 6, the performance took place at the Supernova stage during heavy rainfall. The downpour caused flooding near several festival stages, including the Supernova, Favela, and Global Village areas. Despite the weather, the tribute to the Ramones and the performance by Matanza Ritual proceeded as planned, with performers noting a positive reception from the audience.

On September 7, the festival continued with a lineup focused on musical legacy and Bossa Nova. Headliner Elton John performed his only show in Brazil, stating he wanted to ‘compensate’ Brazilian fans for missing them during his farewell tour. His performance followed recent health challenges regarding his vision. Other major performances included Gilberto Gil, who noted during his set that it might be his last appearance at the festival, and generational crossovers such as Luísa Sonza performing with Roberto Menescal. 

The festival schedule also featured Jon Batiste, Laufey, and Péricles. On the Palco Sunset, Roupa Nova returned to the festival after 35 years, performing classics alongside Guilherme Arantes. Péricles delivered a Motown-inspired tribute, while Ne-Yo also performed a sophisticated set. Recent days at Cidade do Rock have been characterized by heavy rain and cold temperatures, requiring attendees to use rain gear.

## Claims

- Nelly performed at the Rock in Rio Palco Mundo on Sunday. (corroborated by 2 sources)
- Nelly and Ashanti reconciled their relationship in 2021. (single source)
- Nelly and Ashanti married in 2023. (single source)
- The couple had their first child, Kareem Kenkaide Haynes, in July 2024. (single source)
- Nelly's set included hits such as 'Dilemma', 'Ride wit me', and 'Hot in Herre'. (single source)

## Timeline

### 2026-09-04: Elton John and Gilberto Gil headline Rock in Rio 2026

Elton John and Gilberto Gil headlined a historic night at Rock in Rio 2026 in Rio de Janeiro, featuring emotional performances and a backstage meeting between the two music legends.

26 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/rock-in-rio-matanza-ritual-and-joo-gordo-perform-under-heavy-rain

### 2026-08-27: João Gordo and Asteroides Trio prepare Rock in Rio tribute to Ramones

João Gordo and Asteroides Trio will perform at Rock in Rio 2026, featuring a full tribute to the Ramones' debut album and hits from Ratos de Porão.

6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/joo-gordo-and-asteroides-trio-prepare-rock-in-rio-tribute-to-ramones

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Cite as: Rock in Rio 2026 festival performances. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/rock-in-rio-2026-festival-performances