Def Leppard’s Phil Collen Praises Mexico’s The Warning While Calling Out Sexism in Rock

Def Leppard's guitarist Phil Collen has publicly acknowledged the rising success of Mexican rock band The Warning, emphasizing their significance in a genre traditionally dominated by men. The all-female trio, composed of sisters Daniela, Paulina, and Alejandra Villarreal, captured Collen’s attention when they served as an opening act for Def Leppard during a 2017 concert in Mexico, at which time the sisters were still teenagers.

Recognizing the challenges women face in the rock music industry, Collen expressed admiration for The Warning's achievements, noting the band's ability to thrive despite persistent gender biases. He described the rock scene as maintaining a predominantly macho culture that often marginalizes female musicians, making The Warning’s progress particularly noteworthy.

The Villarreal sisters have previously voiced their own frustrations with the industry's gender disparities. In a recent interview with CNN en Español, they reflected on their decade-plus journey, acknowledging incremental improvements in opportunities for women but underscoring the ongoing necessity to prove their legitimacy within the rock genre. Their growing prominence has contributed to reshaping perceptions, reinforcing that rock music is not an exclusively male domain.

Looking ahead, The Warning is preparing to headline their first stadium concert at Mexico City's Estadio GNP Seguros on February 5, 2027. This milestone will inaugurate their "Everything’s Falling World Tour," which will encompass dates throughout Europe, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Canada, extending through May.

Meanwhile, Def Leppard is gearing up for an extensive North American tour scheduled to begin on March 2, 2027, in Allentown, Pennsylvania. The tour will feature supporting acts Goo Goo Dolls and The Struts and will conclude on July 2 in Indianapolis, Indiana. This rigorous itinerary underscores Def Leppard’s continued relevance and commitment to live performance.

Collen’s remarks come at a time when discussions about gender equality in rock are gaining increased visibility. By spotlighting The Warning’s journey, he has brought attention to the broader issue of sexism within the music industry, advocating for greater inclusivity and recognition of women’s contributions.

The Warning’s emergence as a notable force in rock music challenges longstanding stereotypes and opens doors for future female artists in the genre. Their blend of youthful energy and songwriting prowess has resonated with audiences worldwide, marking them as a band to watch in the coming years.

Both Def Leppard and The Warning exemplify different stages of rock’s evolution, with the former representing an established legacy and the latter embodying a new generation pushing boundaries. Collen’s support signals a bridging of eras and a hopeful shift toward a more equitable rock landscape.

While the industry still grapples with ingrained prejudices, the success stories of bands like The Warning highlight progress and the potential for continued change. Their upcoming tour and headline stadium date will serve not only as a testament to their growth but also as an emblem of female empowerment in rock music.