When Humanity Sings

In a world that often feels loud and divided, there is something sacred about stepping into a live show and remembering that for a few hours, none of that matters. Under the lights, surrounded by strangers singing the same lyrics, we are reminded that despite everything, humanity still sings. Music has always been the great unifier of cultures. This was on full display during Superbowl weekend with Bad Bunny’s half time performance.

Even without knowing most of his musical catalog, I found myself fully immersed in the artistry, rhythm, and undeniable sense of cultural pride radiating through the screen. In a time that can be marked by division and noise, music once again proved it can unify strangers with ease. The Superbowl performance showed why Bad Bunny easily sells out crowds and has fans of all ages, and cultural backgrounds.

Like other forms of art, music can be transformative and healing for people. Watching Bad Bunny’s performance brought back memories of my first time seeing Ricky Martin play at Madison Square Garden singing songs from his wildly popular English album titled Ricky Martin. It ranked near the top of my list as one of the best and most memorable live shows I have seen. I had the pleasure of seeing it with close friends that made it all the better. A number of Ricky Martin’s hits that were performed were not in English, however, it made no difference in creating the magnetic energy that captivated the audience, and kept us all on our feet for the entire show.

Upon reflection, I realize how lucky I am to have had so many concert experiences that my parents exposed me too at an early age. I was a self-proclaimed number one fangirl of R&B group New Edition years ago, and my parents took me to see the group at least a dozen times. I still remember the instant feeling of positivity that took over as the audience united over our common love for music.

Fast forward to present times, I have been sharing that love with my own family. I realize how blessed I am to have the opportunity to make memories built around that same transformative feeling. This allows us as a family for just a few hours during a show, to have all of society’s issues disappear, including divisiveness. Live music experiences allow fans of all backgrounds, young and old, to exist under one roof to celebrate music and have the opportunity to create long lasting, and beautiful memories.

Most recently, I had the opportunity to see Earth, Wind, & Fire with my family. It was so inspiring to see legends on the stage singing the same songs that still impact today’s entertainment culture. The resounding good feeling that automatically takes over when a track like September comes on live is undeniably overwhelming in a good way! The loss of original bandmate and founder, Maurice White, was beautifully honored with a tribute song. Homage was shown to Mr. White with additional tributes to other deceased members including Fred White, Andrew Woodfolk, Jessica Cleaves, and Wade Flemons.

In addition to the legendary Earth, Wind, & Fire, I also had the opportunity to see the great Ms. Diana Ross last year. Ms. Ross, in all her diva glory, still looked just as fabulous as ever. Additionally, I cannot forget the opportunity I had to bear witness to Hip-Hop history while watching Wu- Tang Clan’s final tour. It was a performance complete with surprise guests and nostalgia.

It is truly unfortunate that pricing has made it difficult to see some of the biggest pop artists live today like Lady Gaga, Harry Styles, or Ariana Grande, however, there are workarounds for music lovers. Sometimes if you are willing to expand your musical taste or look for alternative venues, you just may be surprised how affordable it can be to see some artists. I tend to enjoy smaller and more intimate settings such as theaters, or arenas within casinos and resorts. Capacity tends to be higher in these venues. They are also often half the price of much larger venues.

After two days of pre-sale madness just to watch AI bots and bulk buyers snatch up affordable seats for Harry Styles residency at MSG, I decided I am officially over chasing certain tours. I have learned during this less than pleasant experience of pre-sale mayhem that music does not only live in massive arenas. There are smaller theaters, casino venue arenas, music festivals, larger capacity stadiums, and even concert films that can offer an equally powerful experience without the financial stress. The venue may change, but that feeling of unity when the lights go down, and the music begins, remains the same.

In a world that can sometimes feel fractured, we can remember that stepping into a live show can remind us that under the lights, beneath the sound, and inside the crowd that we as humanity can still sing. I recommend trying to see a live show featuring your favorite music mainstream artist, local band, or indie artist as there is nothing that compares to the feeling of being in a room with a diverse audience and sharing the same love of music. I am including some of the recent shows I had the pleasure of seeing below. I look forward to sharing my upcoming reviews as I make plans to catch more artists this year as well as attending my first K-pop concert! So, feel free to let me know how many of the groups below you have seen, or who you are looking forward to catching next.

We should remember that concerts may not solve the world’s problems. However, they do remind us that connection is still possible. When thousands of voices rise together, our differences blur which allows something bigger to take over. In those moments, under one roof, and one rhythm, humanity sings.

Suggested Present and Past Concerts:

• Big Time Rush: Every Song from Every Episode Tour

• Earth, Wind, & Fire

• Diana Ross

• Wu-Tang Forever: The Final Chamber Tour

• Not for Radio

• BTS Love Yourself 2018 Tour Concert Film

• Twenty One Pilots: More Than We Ever Imagined Concert Film

Until next time, happy listening!

Part of the Screens, Stories & the State of Humanity series—where film, TV, theater, and entertainment reflect the world we are living in.