After 11 months of lock-down and deprivation of live music, the electric world of concerts is back. The celebration of live music’s return has been nothing but vivacious and exuberant.
Specific to Santa Barbara, the Santa Barbara Bowl lineup this year has been star-studded with amazing musicians spreading across all genres. On September 24, H.E.R, an American singer/song-writer made her appearance at the Bowl. Her repertoire consists of deep and emotional R&B lyrics. Shortly after, the band Lord Huron performed on September 28. Lord Huron is an accredited American indie rock band. They are most praised for their notable sorrowful song “The Night We Met” which has mellow vocals and emotional lyrics.
“There’s something about being around people you love and experiencing live music while lights dance around that is so invigorating and fun. Lord Huron was a great performer and his new album is the perfect road trip anthem,” said junior Frances Rich.
The biggest hit so far has been Glass Animals who secured two nights, October 27 and 28, because one sold out so fast. Glass Animals are a British indie rock band whose feel-good songs are the perfect vibe for a California outdoor concert setting like the Bowl. Their crowd engagement and vibrant visuals made the night lively for all.
“The concert was very energetic yet vibey and Dave Bayley the lead singer is an amazing performer,” said senior Camilla Petote
Perhaps the most notable artist coming to the bowl this year is Lorde on May 7. The 5-time Grammy nominee, 2-time winner and multi platinum singer/song-writer, Lorde, is making a stop at the Santa Barbara Bowl on her Solar Power tour.
“I’m super excited to go to a concert again, I’ve been to a couple this year and the energy is so fun. I’ve been a fan of Lorde since her first album, I even saw her in when she came to the Santa Barbara Bowl in 2014, so to see her again after all this time in the same venue is really cool!” said senior Devyn Wong.
For months, people were merely listening to music through their phones, itching for the day they would get to enjoy their favorite artists and songs live in-person.
“A recent study in 2018 discovered that 52% of the U.S. population attends some sort of live music event every year”
Nielsen Report
An even more COVID-friendly option, outdoor music festivals have been on the rise for quite some time now. Millennials and the upcoming Gen-Z love getting dressed up to enjoy a weekend full of live music in a lush outdoor space. One study found that 84% of people ages 18 to 40 attend music festivals as a way to escape everyday life.
While the concert and music industry is ever-changing, people’s love for live music has remained. After months of uncertainty surrounding the return of concerts in any capacity, things are finally starting to move forward. The bright lights, screaming fans, long lines for merchandise are finally back and people are more ready than ever to savor every moment of it.
