I’ve been to a great share of concerts throughout my life. I have seen artists that I absolutely LOVED and artists that I’ve never heard of before. Nonetheless, I am open to new music and appreciate a good performance. Here are some of my favorite concerts I have experienced in my life:
Janelle Monáe
Before Lollapalooza 2019, I only knew this artist from her performances in movies like Moonlight and Hidden Figures. Even though I didn’t know many of her songs, Janelle Monáe has to be one of the BEST performers and musicians I have ever witnessed live. With her vibrant costumes and exciting choreography, Monáe lit up the stage in Grant Park and left my jaw dropped. During the performance of her song “Pynk,” she wore an amazing pink ruffled jumpsuit that resembled the sexual innuendo present in the song. She performed her songs with such passion and energy that left the audience ready to hear more from her, especially me.
J. Cole
In my senior year of high school, I found out one of my favorite rappers was going on tour so I knew I had to see him. J. Cole is one of the greatest lyricists of our time and his words should not be taken lightly. He speaks out about many issues prevalent in today’s world. On his latest album at the time, KOD, he spoke out about the glorification of drugs and addiction, specifically towards teens and young adults. He calls out the rap industry concerning this issue and urges listeners to actually hear what he is saying. Many artists only appear on stage to perform their songs out of obligation, but J. Cole speaks truthfully to his audience about his message. He spoke more than any other artist I have ever seen perform at the 15 concerts I have been to, and it was quite amazing to hear what he had to say.
Paul McCartney
As an avid Beatles fan, I am particularly biased for why this next artist appears on my “best concerts” list. This musician was one of the fab four that changed the world of music forever. I watched Paul McCartney perform at an outdoor theatre in the summer of 2017 and I haven’t been the same since. The Beatles were a big part of my childhood since my father is a die-hard Beatles fan. I grew up hearing hits like “Strawberry Fields Forever”, “Yesterday,” “Something” and many, many more. Paul McCartney spoke about his time with John and the history behind the songs he performed. This was amazing to hear firsthand from a man that had such an impact on music. This concert is held dearest to my heart since I was able to enjoy this special moment with my dad.
Miley Cyrus (x2)
Yes. TWICE. I didn’t realize a second Miley Cyrus (or should I say Hannah Montana) concert is just what I needed in life. At the first concert I ever went to I was third row at the United Center to see Hannah Montana LIVE. I was beyond excited. The girl I witnessed on my TV screen for years was about to perform her hit songs right in front of my eyes. This was the best first concert I ever could have asked for. Imagine witnessing Miley Cyrus perform “The Climb” ten feet away from you. Insane.
Fast forward to about 12 years later and I’m seeing Miley Cyrus again at Lollapalooza in 2021. This time, we have entered a much different era of Miley than she was 12 years ago, and we LOVE it. Her new album Plastic Hearts had just been released the year before where she rocks out as we always knew she would. Her performance was amazing, and she absolutely rocked her sparkly red jumpsuit. Miley poured her heart and soul into every one of her performances and even brought out some special guests like Juicy J, the Kid LAROI, Wiz Khalifa, G Herbo, and Billy Idol. I could not ask for a better performance from one of my childhood idols. Best concert ever.
My memories of these concerts are some of the most special of all. My love for music along with breathing the same air as one of my favorite artists is a euphoric experience, to say the least. Each of these concerts served me with an experience I will never forget that I will cherish forever.