The Killers Cover Yeah Yeah Yeahs “Maps” At Gov Ball
In a memorable moment at Governors Ball 2024, The Killers paid homage to the Yeah Yeah Yeahs by covering their iconic track “Maps.” The performance took place during their headlining set on June 8, at Flushing Meadows Corona Park in New York City. This tribute came as the band gears up to celebrate the 20th anniversary of their debut album, Hot Fuss, with a Las Vegas residency.
The Killers, led by frontman Brandon Flowers, seamlessly integrated an acoustic, abbreviated version of “Maps” into their set, following their own song “Runaways.” The original track by the Yeah Yeah Yeahs was released in 2003, just a week before The Killers’ breakout hit “Mr. Brightside.” This nod to another early 2000s classic was a nostalgic treat for fans.
This isn’t the first time The Killers have honored a New York-based band at Governors Ball. In 2016, they covered Interpol’s “Obstacle 1” during their headlining performance. The band’s connection to New York’s music scene runs deep, and their latest tribute further solidifies this bond.
The night before their Governors Ball set, The Killers performed a warm-up show at the Bowery Ballroom, a much smaller venue compared to the arenas and festival stages they usually play. This intimate gig saw the band dust off “Andy, You’re a Star” from Hot Fuss, performing it live for the first time since 2018. This performance was a prelude to their upcoming Las Vegas residency, which kicks off on August 14 at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace.
The Killers’ set at Governors Ball was a mix of fan favorites and special covers. They opened with classics like “Somebody Told Me,” “Spaceman,” “Smile Like You Mean It,” and “For Reasons Unknown.” Towards the end of “Runaways,” guitarist Ted Sablay began playing the pre-chorus of “Maps,” with Flowers joining in to sing the iconic lines, “Wait, they don’t love you like I love you / Maps / Wait, they don’t love you like I love you.”
The band’s tribute to the Yeah Yeah Yeahs was well-received by the crowd, adding a layer of emotional depth to their performance. The Killers’ ability to reinterpret and honor classic tracks while maintaining their unique sound is a testament to their versatility and respect for musical history.
In addition to their Governors Ball performance, The Killers are set to embark on a European tour next week before returning to the U.S. for headlining sets at Chicago’s Lollapalooza and San Francisco’s Outside Lands festivals. Their Hot Fuss 25th anniversary shows in Las Vegas promise to be a highlight of the summer, with eight shows scheduled throughout August.
The Killers’ cover of “Maps” at Governors Ball was a poignant reminder of the enduring power of early 2000s music. The Yeah Yeah Yeahs’ frontwoman Karen O has previously expressed her amazement at the song’s lasting popularity. In a 2019 interview with BBC Radio 6, she reflected on the song’s creation, describing it as an effortless and incidental process. The Killers’ rendition of “Maps” brought this timeless track to a new audience, showcasing its continued relevance.
The Killers’ set at Governors Ball also featured a cover of Erasure’s “A Little Respect,” which they had performed the previous night at the Bowery Ballroom. This eclectic mix of covers and original hits made for a dynamic and engaging performance, highlighting the band’s ability to connect with their audience on multiple levels.
As The Killers continue to celebrate their musical journey, their tribute to the Yeah Yeah Yeahs at Governors Ball stands out as a heartfelt moment. The band’s respect for their peers and their willingness to honor classic tracks speaks to their deep appreciation for the music that has shaped their career. Fans can look forward to more memorable performances as The Killers embark on their upcoming tours and residency.
