Dream Theater celebrated a milestone in music history on October 20, 2024, with the return of original drummer Mike Portnoy. The concert at London’s O2 Stadium marked the momentous beginning of their 40th anniversary tour, a legendary occasion for the band and their dedicated fans.
Mike Portnoy, who left the band in 2010, played a key role in shaping Dream Theater’s sound and identity. His intricate drumming and creative input have been integral to the band’s success, and his return brings renewed energy to the group. Fans have eagerly anticipated this reunion, as Portnoy’s style is synonymous with the progressive metal sound that has defined Dream Theater over the decades.
The anniversary tour is set to continue through June 2025, promising an interesting lineup of performances that will celebrate the band’s extensive catalogue. With Portnoy back behind the kit, audiences can expect an amazing mix of classic hits and possibly new material that showcases the band’s evolution.
As Dream Theater embarks on this special tour, the excitement surrounding Portnoy’s return highlights the everlasting legacy of a band that has influenced countless musicians and captivated fans around the world. This tour not only commemorates four decades of music but also rekindles the spirit of collaboration that has always been at the heart of Dream Theater.
Mike’s long list of Awards include 30 Modern Drummer Magazine Reader’s Poll Awards including Hall of Fame Inductee in 2004, MVP of the Year in 2010 & 2013, Best Progressive Rock Drummer (for the magazine’s record of 13 times), Best Clinician (twice), Best Educational Video/DVD for Liquid Drum Theater, and Best Recorded Performance of the Year (8 times) for Dream Theater’s Awake, A Change of Seasons, Falling Into Infinity, Scenes From A Memory, Six Degrees of Inner Turbulence, Score, Avenged Sevenfold’s Nightmare and The Winery Dogs debut. He also holds the distinction of currently being the youngest drummer in Modern Drummer’s Hall of Fame.
He also is the recipient of 16 Drum! Magazine Drummie Awards including “Drummer Of The Year” three times (2011, 2012 & 2014) and was awarded Revolver’s Golden God Award in 2011 for Drummer Of The Year.