West Coast Concert Itinerant

Cowboy Carter Tour, Grand National Tour, Why Not More?

From May to June, I witnessed true talent, creators of their crafts, and packed crowds up close, and can attest that the propaganda against artists is real. It is disconcerting to witness media and fan bases making accusations to discredit artists' ticket and album sales, with the intention of misleading audiences and propagating narratives. But, I guess when you are great, it comes with the territory. However, there are a few things I'd like to clarify from a consumer perspective.

Firstly, after attending several concerts, particularly at the Sofi Stadium, I can say that traffic is a significant barrier. So when you see footage from the concert, and it's the first hour or so, many people have not made it to their seats. Another thing I have witnessed is people enjoy walking around, socializing at the bar, grabbing food, and meeting with friends. You may see an empty seat, but if you look near the concessions, you'll typically find crowds of people moving around. I suppose many people enjoy living on the edge and appreciate the thrill of rushing to their seats just before the main event. None of the tour stops in Los Angeles lacked crowd attendance and participation. It was also good to see in person that when you are great, nothing done to deter you will prosper, and your successes will be attained before the very people attempting to dim your shine. Reclaiming genres and calling out frauds is not an easy feat because the teller of the truth has no friends.

Coco Jones, Kendrick Lamar, Sza, Beyonce'

A few highlights about each of the performances: Queen Bey is exactly who she says she is. Ok, honey! Attending a Beyoncé concert is a full production, featuring elaborate costuming, visuals, dancers, and her acting. If you pay attention to her performances, she acts out the characters in the songs, and her music is the soundtrack. As someone who has observed the growth within her artistry, it has been amazing to behold not only a legend in this lifetime but also see her as a mother. It's one of the most endearing things she shares, and I think it's truly sweet to have her daughters perform alongside her. It's as if her audience grows with her as they progress through the stages of their lives. Many celebrities attended, bringing their children along. Beyoncé's concerts are more family-oriented and make you feel as though you're at a family cookout, and everyone has a place at the event.

The Grand National Tour was so lit. My only complaint, and this is not the artist's fault, is that I didn't have enough room to move as I wanted. Primarily, when my fave songs were being performed, but it was a great show. DJ Mustard started by getting the crowd moving, playing his greatest hits, and hyping concert goers. SZA's performance was good; she brought energy and vocals, and I particularly loved the way her set combined biology and art. As a former science nerd, I never realized the beauty in the stages of cell division. She made science look sexy, and I find that dope. Kendrick did his thing, as usual, and I'm not sure what I could say that hasn't been mentioned already. But those dancers, those dancers were so good. Every time 'Peakaboo' starts, I do that dance when no one's looking. It's like the perfect move to convey the energy the song ignites when you hear it. He brought his chill, cool guy persona, lyrics, and stage presence. He and Sza vibed effortlessly for their joint performances, and I liked the floral touches to his GNX. Judging by the online footage from the Canadian stops, it is evident that attendees were practicing their best footwork and were heavily influenced by LA culture. I guess he's Dot-it again.

I opened this month with a more intimate performance from rising music vocalist Coco Jones. She is making her mark in R&B and serenading music lovers with her vocal propensities. It's always a pleasure when the live performance matches the stream. I learned from my prior concert experiences and booked a ticket that allowed me wiggle room to move and groove to the tunes. It was a good night filled with live melodies and blue luz.