Summer is over but live music in Chicago lives on! Tours are trading festival dates and outdoor performances for arenas and theaters and October is as good of a month as any to catch a concert in the Windy City. From Lizzo to Demi Lovato and many more, there is something for everyone this month.
Check out our list of the 6 can’t miss concerts in Chicago in October!
Photo by Dan Garcia/The Early Registration
Demi Lovato @ the Rosemont Theatre (October 5th)
Singer Demi Lovato has found a new sound and is bringing her Holy Fvck tour to the Rosemont Theatre on October 5th. Performing in support of her brand new LP of the same name, the pop icon turned rocker is going to put on a show that her Chicago fans will not soon forget. Select seats remain so get your tickets now at Ticketmaster before they are all gone.
Harry Styles @ the United Center (October 6, 8, 9, 13, 14, 15)
Fans had not 1, 2, 3, 4 or even 5 chances to see Harry Styles in Chicago this month, but 6. The former One Direction lead is performing a 6-night residency at the United Center this month, and still many fans were left on the outside looking in, as even the final show sold out in just a matter of minutes. Tickets are all gone but you already know that the energy in all of those performances will be unmatched.
Lizzo performing at the Austin City Limits Music Festival in Austin, TX on October 6, 2019.
Lizzo @ the United Center (October 16th)
It’s about damn time that Lizzo’s rock an arena crowd in the Windy City, and you have your shot to see her live on October 16th. Only upper level and limited view tickets remain for this one, as this is one of the hottest tours of the fall, so get your tickets now.
Carrie Underwood @ the Allstate Arena (October 22nd)
Country mega star Carrie Underwood is bringing her headlining tour to the Allstate Arena for what will of course be an amazing night. Dubbed “The Denim & Rhinestones” tour, Underwood fans can check it out in person on October 22nd in Rosement. Get your tickets here.
Photo by Dan Garcia/The Early Registration
Panic at the Disco @ the United Center (October 28th)
They had to miss their previously scheduled date due to Covid but need to panic! Brendon Urie and company are returning to the United Center on October 28th (previously scheduled for September 17th). Tickets for Panic at the Disco’s “Viva Las Vengeance” tour still remain and you can get yours now at Ticketmaster.com.
The Who @ the United Center (October 12th)
Rock legends, The Who, are bringing their “The Who Hits Back!” tour to the United Center on October 12th, with special guest Steven Page. The iconic band promises to bring all the hits on their North American tour, so you certainly won’t want to miss out. Tickets still remain so be sure to get yours now at Ticketmaster while you still can.
Christmas comes early whenever iHeartRadio’s Jingle Ball Tour comes to town. Making it’s first stop at the Dickies Arena in Fort Worth, TX, everyone’s favorite holiday concert is again bringing the biggest names in music to a city near you. Kicking things off for the Dallas Jingle Ball this year are names like Jack Harlow, the Black Eyed Peas, Khalid, Ava Max, Lauv and more!
So with so many talented performs sharing the stage, there are of course several songs that we need to hear before the night is over. From Jack Harlow’s big hits from the past two years to the Black Eyed Peas catalog of bangers from the last two decades, check out our set-list wish-list for Tuesday night’s concert.
Here’s our list of the 7 songs that we need to hear at Dallas’ iHeartRadio Jingle Ball this week:
“Boom Boom Pow” – Black Eyed Peas
Photo by Dan Garcia/The Early Registration
We caught the Black Eyed Peas perform a career spanning setlist to help kick off night 1 of the iHeartRadio Music Festival a couple months in Las Vegas, and as a result they have our expectations high for Tuesday night. While they have several hit singles to choose from, we will certainly be disappointed if they don’t get the party started with their 2009 hit, “Boom Boom Pow”.
“All 4 Nothing” – Lauv
Photo by Dan Garcia/The Early Registration
From his second studio album of the same name, Lauv’s single “All 4 Nothing” is certainly on our wishlist for Tuesday night’s concert. The track is just one of many standouts from the singer’s newest album, which released this past summer, but we won’t get too greedy.
“Dua Lipa” – Jack Harlow
Photo by Dan Garcia/The Early Registration
Jack Harlow already has too many must hears to count but we definitely can’t leave the arena until we hear him perform his track “Dua Lipa”, which is of course dedicated to another Jingle Ball regular. We love ourselves some Dua Lipa and some Jack Harlow, so this is near the top of our list.
“Young Dumb & Broke” – Khalid
Photo by Dan Garcia/The Early Registration
Khalid won over the mainstream with his 2017 single “Young Dumb & Broke” and even though he has accomplished so much since then, we need to hear him pay homage to one of his OG singles that fans will surely sing from start to finish.
“Narcissist” – Lauren Spencer Smith
Photo by Dan Garcia/The Early Registration
Lauren Spencer Smith won us over at the iHeartRadio Festival’s Daytime Village in Las Vegas earlier this year and we can’t wait for second helpings when she performs at the Jingle Ball in Dallas for 2022’s opening night. Her catalog is growing, which makes her perfect for the Jingle Ball stage, but of the few singles she has release, we definitely need to hear her 2022 single “Narcissist”.
“Someone You Loved” – Lewis Capaldi
Photo by Dan Garcia/The Early Registration
Lewis Capaldi’s 2019 single “Someone You Loved” was his introduction to Top 40 radio in the United States just a few years ago, and ever since fans have fell in love. From his beautiful vocals to his cheeky personality, Capaldi is easy to root for so we’ll be rooting for him to perform his breakout single at the Dallas Jingle Ball.
“Kings & Queens” – Ava Max
Photo by Dan Garcia/The Early Registration
Ava Max has an unmatched appeal and can record a pop song like not many others can. She is truly and artist and already has so many songs that are immensely addictive and catchy, one of course being her 2020 “Heaven & Hell” lead single, “King & Queens”. We would be very surprised if she doesn’t perform the track on Tuesday night.
Chicago is known for its rich musical heritage and its vibrant live music scene, and this February is no exception. From the biggest names in R&B and rock to the hottest up-and-coming acts, there is something for everyone this month. Here are the most anticipated concerts happening in Chicago this February:
Check out our list of the 5 can’t miss concerts in Chicago in February below!
Photo by Dan Garcia/The Early Registration
SZA w/ Omar Apollo @ the United Center (February 22nd)
Fans of R&B and soul music in Chicago are in for a treat this February, as the multi-talented SZA is set to take the stage at the United Center on February 22nd. SZA, whose real name is Solána Imani Robinson, has been making waves in the music industry with her unique sound and powerful voice. With her critically acclaimed sophomore album “SOS,” SZA is sure to put on a show that will leave fans in awe.
Since her debut in 2013, SZA has been praised for her emotional and introspective lyrics, as well as her hauntingly beautiful voice. Her music has been described as a mix of R&B, soul, and hip-hop, and her live performances are said to be nothing short of electrifying. With her unique sound and powerful stage presence, SZA is sure to deliver an unforgettable performance that fans will be talking about for months to come.
SZA isn’t traveling another either, as “Tamagotchi” singer Omar Apollo will get things started for the Wednesday night performance. Apollo is known for his unique blend of R&B, funk, and indie rock, and has been gaining popularity for his smooth vocal delivery and soulful, introspective lyrics. He first gained recognition with his self-released music in the early 2010s, and has since become one of the rising stars in the music industry, releasing multiple successful projects and touring internationally. Omar Apollo alone is worth the price of admission, even before SZA hits the stage.
So mark your calendars as this is a concert that you won’t want to miss. SZA is one of the most talented artists in the music industry today, and her concert at the United Center is sure to be a night to remember. Get ready to experience the magic of SZA and Omar Apollo live and in person, as she takes the stage in Chicago this February for a sold-out crowd!
Photo by Dan Garcia/The Early Registration
A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie @ the Aragon Ballroom (February 19th)
Rap fans get ready, because A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie is set to take the stage at the Aragon Ballroom on February 19th. With his hit songs and electrifying live performances, A Boogie is sure to bring the heat to the Aragon Ballroom.
Since his debut almost a decade ago, the “Look Back At It” rapper/singer has been praised for his catchy hooks and infectious beats. His music has been described as a mix of trap, hip-hop, and R&B, and his live performances are said to be nothing short of electrifying. With his high-energy stage presence and charismatic delivery, A Boogie is sure to get the crowd hyped and dancing.
So mark your calendars and get your tickets now, as this is a concert that you won’t want to miss.
Photo by Dan Garcia/The Early Registration
Muse @ the United Center (February 25th)
Rock fans can also celebrate this month as the legendary band Muse is set to take the stage at the United Center on February 25th. Muse, comprised of Matt Bellamy, Chris Wolstenholme, and Dominic Howard, has been winning fans over for decades with their unique sound, powerful anthems and captivating live performances. Muse is sure to bring an unforgettable experience to the United Center.
Muse is one of the most influential and talented bands in the rock world today, and their concert at the United Center is sure to be a night to remember so get your tickets now at Ticketmaster while they are still available.
Photo by Dan Garcia/The Early Registration
Maggie Rogers @ the Aragon Ballroom (February 17th)
Chicago music lovers, prepare to be transported to a new world on February 17th as Maggie Rogers brings her captivating sound and electrifying stage presence to the Aragon Ballroom. With her blend of dreamy pop, folksy singer-songwriter, and electronic music, Maggie Rogers has been making waves in the industry and has quickly become one of the most talked-about artists of our time.
Since her rise to fame in 2016, Maggie Rogers has been praised for her innovative sound and introspective lyrics. Her music has been described as a journey through sound, taking listeners to new and uncharted territories with each beat. Rogers live performances are said to be nothing short of mesmerizing, with a combination of stunning vocals, powerful stage presence, and a visual spectacle that transports the audience to another dimension.
At her upcoming concert at the Aragon Ballroom, fans can expect an unforgettable experience that will leave them in awe. With a setlist of hit songs, such as “Alaska,” “Dog Years,” and “Fallingwater,” Maggie Rogers will take the stage and showcase her unique and mesmerizing sound. Get ready to dance, sing, and be transported to a new world with Maggie Rogers, as she takes the Aragon Ballroom by storm this February 17th.
Marc Anthony @ the Allstate Arena (February 24th)
Latin music fans will make the short drive to Rosemont this February, as the legendary Marc Anthony is set to take the stage at the Allstate Arena on February 24th. Marc Anthony, whose real name is Marco Antonio Muñiz, has been captivating crowds for many years with his smooth voice and electrifying performances. With his hit songs and charismatic presence, Marc Anthony is sure to bring it all to the Allstate Arena.
So mark your calendars and get your tickets now while you still can. Marc Anthony is one of the most talented and charismatic artists in the Latin music world today, and his concert at the Allstate Arena is sure to be a memorable night.
As winter comes to a close and spring approaches, Chicago’s music scene is heating up with a lineup of highly anticipated concerts featuring some of the biggest names in the industry. Next month promises to be an exciting month for music fans, with a variety of genres and styles represented in a series of concerts across the city. Whether you’re a fan of indie pop, hip-hop, or rock, there’s something for everyone on this list of the most anticipated Chicago concerts in the month of March. From the most exciting up-and-coming artists to seasoned veterans, these performers are sure to put on unforgettable shows that will leave fans talking about the night long after the final encore. So mark your calendars and get ready for a month of incredible live music in the Windy City.
Check out our list of the 5 can’t miss concerts in Chicago in March below!
Photo by Dan Garcia/The Early Registration
John Mayer @ the United Center (March 31st)
John Mayer is one of the most celebrated musicians of our time, with a career spanning over two decades. He has sold millions of albums worldwide, won multiple Grammy Awards, and has established himself as one of the most talented guitarists of his generation. He first gained popularity in the early 2000s with his breakthrough album “Room for Squares,” which included hits like “Your Body Is a Wonderland” and “No Such Thing.”
Mayer’s music has evolved over the years, with each album showcasing a different side of his artistry. He has explored various genres, from blues and rock to folk and country, and has collaborated with a wide range of artists, including Eric Clapton, Alicia Keys, and Frank Ocean.
Mayer’s live performances are legendary, with his guitar solos leaving audiences in awe. He has headlined some of the world’s biggest music festivals, including Coachella and Bonnaroo, and has played sold-out shows at iconic venues like Madison Square Garden and the Hollywood Bowl. This time around though, Mayer is delivering an extra special live show as he is delivering a solo acoustic tour for the first time in his career.
His SOLO tour promises to be one of the most highly anticipated concerts of the year. Fans can expect to hear a mix of old and new material, with Mayer showcasing his incredible musicianship and songwriting skills. With hits like “Gravity,” “Slow Dancing in a Burning Room,” and “New Light,” this concert is sure to be a memorable experience for all in attendance.
Tickets for this one are all sold-out but select single seats and resale tickets can be purchased via Ticketmaster.com.
WizKid @ the United Center (March 24th)
Nigerian singer and songwriter, WizKid, who has taken the world by storm with his unique blend of Afrobeat and pop music first gained international recognition with his hit single “Ojuelegba,” which was later remixed by Drake and Skepta, bringing him even more exposure on the global stage and fans can see him live and on-stage at the United Center on March 24th.
His upcoming concert at the United Center on March 24th, part of his anticipated “More Love, Less Ego” Tour, promises to be one of the most anticipated shows of the year for Chicago rap fans. Fans can expect to hear hits like “Essence,” “No Stress,” and “Ginger,” as well as tracks from his latest album, “More Love, Less Ego,” which was released late last year and brought fans his latest single “Bad to Me.” With his infectious rhythms and danceable beats, WizKid is sure to deliver a show that will have the entire crowd on their feet. This concert is a must-see for fans of Afrobeats and world music, and anyone looking for a night of pure entertainment.
Photo by Dan Garcia/The Early Registration
Gracie Abrams @ the House of Blues (March 6th and 7th)
Gracie Abrams is a rising star in the music industry, and her upcoming performances at the House of Blues on March 6th and 7th are a couple of the most highly anticipated concerts in Chicago next month. The 23-year-old singer-songwriter first gained attention in 2019 with her debut single “Mean It,” which showcased her introspective lyrics and unique vocal style. Since then, she’s continued to build a dedicated following with a series of critically acclaimed releases, including her 2020 debut EP “Minor” and her live performances opening for Olivia Rodrigo on her Sour Tour.
What sets Abrams apart from other young artists is her ability to craft emotionally resonant songs that capture the complexities of the human experience at such a young age. Her lyrics touch on themes of love, loss, and self-discovery, and her raw, vulnerable delivery draws listeners in and leaves a lasting impact. Abrams’ music has been compared to artists like Phoebe Bridgers and Lorde, and she’s been praised for her ability to blend indie and pop influences in a way that feels both authentic and innovative.
Fans who attend Abrams’ House of Blues concerts can expect to hear a mix of fan favorites and her brand new album “Good Riddance”, all performed with her trademark sincerity and passion. Whether you’re a day one fan or new to her music, this is a concert you won’t want to miss, especially before she is set to hit the road with Taylor Swift, opening for her stadium tour which kicks off next month. With her star on the rise and a bright future ahead of her, Gracie Abrams is an artist to watch in the coming years, and her Chicago performances are sure to be one of the highlights of March’s music scene.
Photo by Dan Garcia/The Early Registration
J.I.D and Smino @ the Aragon Ballroom (March 21st)
J.I.D and Smino have been two of the fastest rising names in the world of hip hop for the past few years, each bringing their own unique style and perspective to the genre. J.I.D, born Destin Route, hails from Atlanta, Georgia, while Smino, born Christopher Smith Jr., is from St. Louis, Missouri, though many of his Chicago fans will also claim him as their own.
J.I.D’s music is characterized by his rapid-fire flow and intricate wordplay, as well as his introspective lyrics that delve into personal struggles and social issues. He first gained attention with his 2017 album “The Never Story,” which showcased his talent as a storyteller and his ability to tackle heavy themes with nuance and depth.
Smino, on the other hand, is known for his smooth, soulful vocals and playful, witty lyrics. His music blends elements of hip hop, R&B, and funk, and often features jazzy instrumentation and melodic hooks. He has been praised for his unique approach to songwriting and his ability to create a distinct sound that is all his own.
Together, J.I.D and Smino are hitting the road for a co-headlining tour that promises to be one of the most exciting hip hop shows of the year. Their concert at the Byline Bank Aragon Ballroom on March 21st will be a celebration of their individual talents and their chemistry as performers.
Fans can expect to hear a mix of old and new material from both artists, with J.I.D performing tracks from his latest album, “The Forever Story” and Smino with his latest project, “Luv 4 Rent.” With their unique styles and undeniable stage presence, J.I.D and Smino are sure to deliver a concert experience that will leave audiences buzzing for days. This is a can’t-miss show for fans of hip hop and anyone looking for a night of top-notch live music.
Joshua Bassett @ the Chicago Theatre (March 18th)
Joshua Bassett is making a name for himself in the world of pop music and acting, known best perhaps for his work on the Disney+ series “High School Musical: The Musical: The Series.” Born and raised in California, Bassett first gained attention with his covers of popular songs on YouTube, showcasing his natural talent as a singer and musician.
In 2020, Bassett released his debut single, “Common Sense,” which showcased his ability to craft catchy, upbeat pop tunes. His music draws inspiration from a variety of genres, including rock, folk, and pop, and often features heartfelt lyrics that explore themes of love, loss, and self-discovery.
Bassett’s upcoming concert at the House of Blues on March 18th, part of “The Complicated Tour”, promises to be an intimate and unforgettable experience. Fans can expect to hear a mix of old and new material, including songs from his latest EP, “Different,” which many fans speculate is about his famous ex, Olivia Rodrigo.
Bassett’s live performances are known for their energy and authenticity, with the young artist connecting with his audience on a personal level through his music and banter. His soulful vocals and dynamic stage presence are sure to captivate the crowd, making for a concert experience that fans won’t soon forget.
With his undeniable talent and charismatic personality, Joshua Bassett is on the rise in the world of pop music, and his upcoming concert is a must-see for fans of his music and anyone looking for a night of live entertainment.
Gracie Abrams: The Good Riddance Tour @ the House of Blues (March 6th and 7th)
Gracie Abrams is a rising star in the music industry, and her upcoming sold-out performances at the House of Blues, the first two dates of her anticipated “Good Riddance Tour”, on March 6th and 7th are a couple of the most highly anticipated concerts in Chicago next month.
The 23-year-old singer-songwriter first gained attention in 2019 with her debut single “Mean It,” which showcased her introspective lyrics and unique vocal style. Since then, she’s continued to build a dedicated following with a series of critically acclaimed releases, including her 2020 debut EP “Minor” and her live performances opening for Olivia Rodrigo on her Sour Tour.
What sets Abrams apart from other young artists is her ability to craft emotionally resonant songs that capture the complexities of the human experience at such a young age. Her lyrics touch on themes of love, loss, and self-discovery, and her raw, vulnerable delivery draws listeners in and leaves a lasting impact. Abrams’ music has been compared to artists like Phoebe Bridgers and Lorde, and she’s been praised for her ability to blend indie and pop influences in a way that feels both authentic and innovative.
Fans who attend Abrams’ House of Blues concerts can expect to hear a mix of fan favorites and her brand new album “Good Riddance”, all performed with her trademark sincerity and passion. Whether you’re a day one fan or new to her music, this is a concert you won’t want to miss, especially before she is set to hit the road with Taylor Swift, opening for her stadium tour which kicks off next month. With her star on the rise and a bright future ahead of her, Gracie Abrams is an artist to watch in the coming years, and her Chicago performances are sure to be one of the highlights of March’s music scene.
Visit the House of Blues’ official website for more information.
Gracie Abrams mesmerized the crowd on Monday night at the House of Blues in Chicago, marking the opening night of her highly anticipated Good Riddance Tour. The sold-out venue, and just the first of two sold-out nights at the House of Blues, was filled with excited fans who couldn’t wait to hear her new music live for the first time.
Gracie, who had performed at Lollapalooza in Chicago last summer and who headlined at The Metro just over a year ago, was back with a bang. She kicked off her set with “Where Do We Go Now?,” one of the stand out tracks from her brand new album, “Good Riddance.” The crowd was immediately swept away Gracie’s unmatched vocals and the song’s powerful energy.
Gracie’s performance was nothing short of breathtaking. She played several songs from her new album, including “This Is What Drugs Are For,” “Full Machine,” and “Difficult”, to name a few. Her voice was raw and emotional on opening night, and she poured her heart into every note she sang.
But it wasn’t just her new material that impressed her Chicago fans. Abrams also played fan favorites from her earlier EPs, such as “21” and “Feels Like.” The crowd sang along to every word, clearly showing their deep love and admiration for the young artist.
Photo by Dan Garcia/The Early Registration
As the night went on, Gracie’s energy continued to soar. She interacted with the crowd and thanked fans for coming out. “Welcome to night one of The Good Riddance Tour,” Abrams told fans. “I can’t wrap my head around that we are all in the same room together again,” Gracie continued. The “Rockland” singer also shared her admiration for the Windy City on Monday night. “Chicago is one of my favorite places to play, by a lot. I love it more than anything,” to which a fan in the back in the room reminded the rising star that Chicago loves her back. Gracie went on to introduce her band and perform more tracks from her early EPs and brand new album where the tour gets its name.
One of the highlights of the concert was when Gracie performed “Feels Like,” the standout track from her 2021, which she chose to close out the main portion of her set. The song, which used to open her set, was also a perfect track to lead fans into the encore. The crowd danced and sang along, clearly enjoying the infectious energy of the track.
The concert ended with a stunning encore of “I Miss You, I’m Sorry” a stripped down version of “Minor,” and a live debut of “Right Now”, the closing track from Abrams latest LP. Gracie left the stage to a thunderous applause, with the audience clearly wanting more. But even after the show was over, fans were buzzing with excitement, taking to social media to share their experiences and excitement for the rest of the tour.
It’s clear that Gracie Abrams is a rising star in the music industry, and following night two of her mini-residency tomorrow, her Chicago fans will surely be counting down the days until she comes back again, and they won’t have to wait too long. If you don’t have tickets to tonight’s performance, fans can also catch Gracie in Chicago, opening for Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour on Sunday, June 4th.
With her raw talent and emotional lyrics, Gracie Abrams has the ability to connect with her audience in a way that few artists can. The Good Riddance Tour promises to be one of the best pop tours of the year, and after seeing Gracie’s tour kick-off in Chicago, it’s easy to see why.
Bruce Springsteen, the legendary American singer-songwriter and rock icon, delivered a sold-out concert on March 7, 2023, at the Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee, WI. The highly anticipated event was a part of Springsteen’s ongoing tour which makes stops across some of the biggest arenas and stadiums throughout the country.
As one of the most prolific and influential musicians of his generation, Springsteen’s concert was a testament to his enduring appeal and his ability to connect with fans of all ages. The Fiserv Forum was packed to capacity with Springsteen enthusiasts eager to witness the Boss in action.
Springsteen’s performance was a tour-de-force for nearly 3-hours, showcasing his unmatched talents as a performer, songwriter, and storyteller. The concert featured a mix of classic hits and deep cuts from his extensive catalog, including tracks such as “Born To Run,” “Dancing IN The Dark,” and “Glory Days.”
Accompanied by his trusty E Street Band, Springsteen gave a high-energy performance that kept the crowd on their feet throughout the night. His signature blend of rock and roll, folk, and blues was on full display, as was his raw, emotional delivery that has made him a household name.
Photo by Dan Garcia/The Early Registration
The Fiserv Forum was just one stop on Springsteen’s extensive tour, which has taken him to cities across the United States. With each performance, he continues to cement his status as a living legend and an icon of American music. Whether you’re a die-hard Springsteen fan or a casual listener, his sold-out concert at the Fiserv Forum was a must-see event that captured the spirit and energy of one of rock’s most enduring figures.
Check out our photos from the memorable night from our photographer Dan Garcia below.
Country music star, Kelsea Ballerini, graced the stage at The Rave in Milwaukee with a dynamic performance that showcased her impressive range and undeniable stage presence. Following a string of high-profile appearances, including a stint on Saturday Night Live and the season premiere of NBC’s “That’s My Jam,” Ballerini arrived in Milwaukee on Saturday to headline her biggest headlining show in Wisconsin to date. Her loyal Milwaukee fans eagerly awaited her arrival, and she certainly did not disappoint.
Ballerini brought her A-game to the stage, exuding confidence and charisma with every step. Her setlist featured a mix of hits and B-sides, as well as cuts from her latest LP, that kept the energy high and the audience engaged. She effortlessly owned the stage, delivering each song with a sense of urgency and authenticity that left the crowd wanting more.
The hour and a half performance was a testament to Ballerini’s growth as a performer and songwriter. The Knoxville native has been a regular visitor to Milwaukee during her career, from her memorable performance at the beautiful Riverside Theater to her most recent visit, warming the stage for the Jonas Brothers at Summerfest.
Photo by Dan Garcia/The Early Registration
Ballerini’s Heartfirst Tour promotes last fall’s “Subject To Change” album, which arrived a few weeks before her divorce from fellow country singer Morgan Evans. The “Miss Me More” singer’s setlist included deep emotions and empowering messages that resonated with the audience. Her top performances of the night included “hole in a bottle,” “Peter Pan,” and the title track from latest album, “Subject To Change.”
During “Homecoming Queen?,” Ballerini invited opening act Georgia Webster to join her on stage for an acoustic guitar duet. Webster’s voice, while very different than Ballerini’s, complemented her in a memorable way.
Photo by Dan Garcia/The Early Registration
Ballerini’s relationship with her fans was a highlight of the night. She made her way to the edge of the stage’s runway throughout the concert, traveling from stage left to stage right, taking selfies, signing autographs, and overall just connecting with her fans.
The concert was only the fifth stop on the recent North American leg of Ballerini’s tour, and the set has already found it’s rythm. With a performance as great and energetic as the one she delivered in Milwaukee, it’s hard to imagine what she could improve. Ballerini is a gem in country music, and her Heartfirst Tour is a testament to her talent and dedication to her craft.
Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images for Taylor Swift
Opening night for Taylor Swift’s highly anticipated “Eras Tour” was one to remember. From the moment that 70,000 of Swift’s most loyal fans filled the sold-out stadium to watch the opening acts take stage to Swift’s headlining set which took fans on a beautiful journey through the last 17 years with a massive career spanning performance that lasted 3 hours and 15 minutes, the evening was years in the making and Swift made it well worth the wait and then some. Fans traveled across the globe to witness pop history, selling out hotels across the greater-Phoenix area and refusing to wait until the iconic singer-songwriter takes her tour to a city near them, and if you were there in person on Friday night, then you could certainly see why. Last evening was nothing short of magical for Swifties and general music fans alike.
The evening got started with a pair of opening acts that call Nashville home, rising star Gayle and pop-punk legends Paramore. Gayle gave an emotional performance of her hit single “abcdefu” and a cover of Alanis Morissette’s “You Oughta Know,” which both had the crowd singing along during her 8-track set.
Paramore’s set was high energy and featured a tribute to Taylor Swift, as lead singer Hayley Williams shared a story where she met Swift’s mom early into her career. Williams finished her story by saying, “I’m not sure (people) get how f*cking incredible (Taylor) is.” “We’re here witnessing history. Thank you for letting us celebrate Taylor’s career with you,” Williams continued. Paramore performed nine of their biggest hits with zero misses and was a perfect choice to get the crowd ready for what was to come.
Swift opened The Eras Tour with her Lovers Era, performing six songs from her 2019 LP “Lover,” and album which Swift never got to tour in its entirety due to the pandemic. The opening track of Swift set was a shortened but high energy of version of “Miss Americana and the Heartbreak Prince,” which was quickly followed by the live debut of “Cruel Summer.” Throghout the first era of the evening, Swift also performed tracks like “The Man,” “You Need To Calm Down,” “Lover,” and “The Archer.”
After an impressively quick costume change, Swift performed a short-but-sweet 3-song set dedicated to her album “Fearless”. Starting with the album’s title track, Taylor also performed “You Belong with Me” and “Love Story”, the two biggest singles from the early album which have both withstood the tests of time. The next era was Swift’s “evermore” Era, during which she performed five songs from her second LP recorded during the pandemic. She finished the set with “tolerate it”, but not before giving fans some context over the album while also getting some laughs from the crowd. “We are currently in the middle of the evermore album, which is an album I absolutely love, despite what some of you say on Tiktok,” she joked. “And ever since this particular song was born I wondered what it might be like to scream sing it with you”, as she began to perform the “evermore” B-side “champagne problems” on piano for the crowd.
Following the beautiful mellow standouts from “evermore” things really turned up as snake imagery was played on the video screens for the 70,000 in attendance, foreshadowing that it was time for the Reputation Era. Swift came out with “Ready For It?”, which opened her Reputation Tour 5 years ago, and is as good of an opening track now as it was then. Swift continued with “Delicate,” “Don’t Blame Me,” and “Look What You Made Me Do” to finish the era.
Next up was the Speak Now Era, during which she performed “Enchanted.” The track was the only song performed from the album and just one of two eras that only had one song make the setlist. While many would have loved to hear more from the album, it was likely a necessary choice to make room from some of the new projects that have had less of a life on stage.
Next up it was time for the Red Era, which was perhaps the highlight of the massive 3+ hour performance. Swift performed songs like “22,” “We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together,” and “I Knew You Were Trouble,” all of which were big singles upon their release, but the true standout moment was when she performed the full 10-minute version of “All Too Well,” the special extended version from her Taylor’s version re-release of “Red”.
Swift spoke to the crowd before “All Too Well” to introduce the song, explaining how special and precious the Red album is to her. She was grateful for the way fans embraced the album when it came out in 2012 and never could have imagined what would happen a decade later, speaking on the success of “All Too Well”. “You don’t know how much that means to me,” Swift explained to the crowd. “So I wanted to perform one more song from that album if you have an extra 10 minutes to spare,” Taylor continued as the crowd went wild, preparing to hear All Too Well live in its entirety for the first time.
Swift followed 10 minutes of “All Too Well” with a 7-song set dedicated to her folklore Era. Complimented on the main stage with a cozy cabin with a eye-catching moss roof, Taylor performed some of the album’s best songs including “invisible string”, “betty”, “the last great american dynasty”, “august”, “illicit affairs”, “my tears ricochet” and finally “cardigan”, the lead single from the project.
And just as Swift complemented “evermore” with a change in tempo with “Reputation”, she did the same following “folklore” with her classic album, “1989”. The LP delivered some of her biggest and most successful Top 40 pop hits to date, and to celebrate the era, Swift opened the performance with “Style”, and then kept the momentum going with “Blank Space”, “Shake It Off”, “Wildest Dreams” and “Bad Blood” a timeless LP that had an endless amount of commercial singles.
Next Taylor performed a special acoustic version of “mirrorball”, circling back to the “folklore” Era and making Friday evening’s show a 1-of-1 performance for the crowd in attendance. After the acoustic track, Taylor continued the theme with the song that started it all, her debut single “Tim McGraw”, a timeless country record that in 2023 is older than many of those in attendance at the sold-out stadium.
Last but night least it was time for the “Midnights” Era, which was fitting because midnight was just less than an hour away by the time Swift finished the era with 7-tracks from her latest album. Swift performed tracks like “Lavender Haze”, “Anti-Hero”, “Midnight Rain” and finished with her track “Karma” which was the last song of the night, #44 of 44 for the epic performance.
Taylor Swift continues to amaze fans with her live performances, and the lengths that she goes to make her loyal fans happy is unprecedented. Her tour sold out in seconds, with hundreds of thousands (if not millions) on the outside looking in, wishing they got tickets to the tour. With ticket sales in the rearview, it’s easy to wonder what driving force is left over to make a show great. Maybe it’s the sincere mutual love she has back for her fans, maybe it’s her pursuit of excellence or perhaps it’s something else we can’t wrap our heads around, either way, Taylor Swift made sure that everyone left Friday night’s performance with their expectations exceeded. Whether fans traveled from Phoenix, Philadelphia or Portugal, Swift validated the lengths that fans go to see her perform in every room, big or small, that she’s performed in for the last two decades. The Eras Tour is the toughest ticket in live music this year, and it’s not even close, but if you love anything about her, you need to have a Taylor Swift show on your live music bucket list.
Lainey Wilson performs at The Rave in Milwaukee, WI on March 30, 2023 (Photo by Dan Garcia).
Not many artists have had the year that Lainey Wilson is enjoying right now. With a growing list of achievements over the past year and change, from her appearances on screen, on the critically acclaimed series “Yellowstone”, to her domination of the country music charts with her 2022 LP “Bell Bottom Country”, Wilson has become a household name. She has paid her dues and grinded in the Nashville music scene for the past decade, and her hard work has finally paid off and her star is on the rise.
On Thursday night, Wilson’s Wisconsin fans were able to celebrate her journey as the “Heart Like A Truck” singer brought her “Country With a Flare Tour” to a sold-out crowd at The Rave in Milwaukee, WI.
The setlist, which lasted over an hour, showcased Wilson’s latest album, “Bell Bottom Country”, but also included select tracks from her career. The sold-out crowd of fans, which were far from casual, sang along to every song, and the 2022 ACM New Female of the Year winner basked in the energy of the moment.
Lainey Wilson performs at The Rave in Milwaukee, WI on March 30, 2023 (Photo by Dan Garcia).
From writing songs for other artists in Nashville to celebrating her first No. 1 hit, nearly a decade after leaving her small town in a camper trailer to chase a career in music, and now selling out venues throughout the entire country, Lainey Wilson has reached new heights and she’s only getting bigger by the day.
Highlights of Wilson’s performance on Thursday night included her combination of her hit single “Heart Like a Truck” with her marquee Hardy collaboration “Wait in the Truck” as well as her memorable performance of “Things a Man Oughta Know” at the end of her set. From start to finish, the rising superstar delivered a set that you’d expect from a seasoned veteran, and her Milwaukee fans already can’t wait for her return.
If you missed out on last night’s show, don’t worry as Wilson is returning to Wisconsin in the fall, supporting Hardy during his Green Bay performance. Limited tickets to the performance can be purchased here.
