Reliving Boston’s Totally Tubular Festival at MGM Music Hall 2024
On July 17, 2024, Boston hopped into a time machine, and the destination was pure 80s magic. The Totally Tubular Festival transformed MGM Music Hall at Fenway into a neon-charged wonderland, where synth-pop, new wave, and nostalgia collided. From Thomas Dolby’s quirky genius to Modern English’s dreamy anthems, eight iconic acts lit up the night, creating a vibe that felt like sneaking into one of Boston’s hidden speakeasies—a secret party where the past came alive. That unforgettable evening still echoes in 2025, reminding us why Boston’s music scene thrives on retro cool. Here’s how it all went down.
Kicking Off with a Synth-Pop Spark
The night began with Thomas Dolby, the electronic music pioneer whose “She Blinded Me with Science” set the stage ablaze. As his vintage keyboards hummed through MGM’s cutting-edge sound system, fans in neon tees chanted “Science!” while lasers flashed overhead. Dolby’s set, blending “Hyperactive!” with witty stories of the 80s music scene, was a sci-fi dance party that pulled us straight into the decade’s heart. His quirky charisma made every moment feel like an insider’s glimpse into Boston’s love for retro 80s haunts, setting a high-energy tone for the night.
Tom Bailey of Thompson Twins followed, his smooth vocals carrying “Hold Me Now” across the 3,500-capacity venue. Couples swayed, hands clasped, as the romantic ballad filled the air, while “Doctor! Doctor!” got the crowd bouncing. Bailey’s heartfelt performance, backed by glowing synths, was a nod to the Thompson Twins’ 80s pop dominance, and MGM’s intimate setup made every note hit home.
The Synth-Pop Heartbeat
As the night rolled on, Modern English took over, their post-punk anthem “I Melt with You” sparking a collective sing-along. The crowd, a mix of Gen X and Gen Z, swayed under MGM’s neon lights, the song’s dreamy vibes capturing Boston’s timeless 80s obsession. Men Without Hats kept the energy soaring with “The Safety Dance,” their quirky charm igniting a spontaneous dance-off among fans decked in fanny packs and leg warmers. It was pure, playful chaos, the kind of moment that makes Boston concerts unforgettable, much like the buzz at Boston Calling.
The Romantics cranked up the rock with “What I Like About You,” their raw energy shaking the floor. Bow Wow Wow’s “I Want Candy” brought a cheeky edge, with fans shouting the catchy chorus. Tommy Tutone dialed up “867-5309/Jenny,” turning the venue into a giant karaoke party, and The Plimsouls closed with “A Million Miles Away,” their jangly riffs sealing the night’s retro magic. Each act added a layer to the festival’s living mixtape, proving why Boston’s music fans can’t resist a good throwback.
MGM’s Electric Vibe
MGM Music Hall, a Fenway gem since 2022, was the perfect stage for this 80s revival. Its state-of-the-art sound system made every synth riff and guitar strum crystal-clear, while the cozy layout ensured no one felt far from the action. The venue’s neon-lit ambiance, paired with fans in retro gear, turned the night into a visual and sonic spectacle, not unlike the city’s best fish and chips spots serving up classic comfort. Whether you were up front or in the balcony, MGM’s setup made the festival feel personal, a testament to why it’s become Boston’s go-to music spot.
The crowd was as much a part of the show as the bands. From shoulder pads to glow sticks, Bostonians embraced the 80s aesthetic, dancing and singing through every set. It was a multi-generational party—parents reliving their youth, younger fans discovering the era’s hits—that captured the city’s knack for blending past and present, a vibe that still pulses in 2025’s retro bars and tribute nights.
Why It Still Resonates
The Totally Tubular Festival wasn’t just a concert; it was a love letter to Boston’s 80s soul. The lineup’s diversity—Dolby’s innovation, Bailey’s romance, Modern English’s depth, and the high-energy chaos of Men Without Hats and others—mirrored the city’s eclectic music scene. In 2025, that night’s energy fuels Boston’s ongoing nostalgia, from MGM’s packed concert calendar to local 80s cover bands. It reminded us why the 80s still rule: music that’s fun, raw, and timeless, perfect for escaping the everyday grind.
Tips for Your Next MGM Night
Book Early: MGM shows sell out fast—snag tickets via Ticketmaster or MGM’s site.
Get There: Hop the Green Line to Kenmore or pre-book Fenway parking. Arrive 30 minutes early for merch and drinks.
Dress the Part: Neon tees or 80s fits add to the fun. Or, browse Secret Boston’s Sweet Shirts to shop for Boston-centric merch.
Afterparty: Hit Fenway bars post-show for 80s playlists and cocktails.
Keep Boston’s 80s Vibe Alive
Boston’s Totally Tubular Festival at MGM Music Hall 2024 was a neon-fueled blast that cemented the city’s love for 80s music. From Thomas Dolby’s synth wizardry to Modern English’s anthems, it was a night that still sparks memories in 2025. Want more? Check MGM’s 2025 lineup or join our newsletter for Boston’s coolest music updates. Share your 80s throwback pics on Instagram with #SecretBoston and our CTA: Relive the 80s! Let’s keep the retro groove going.
