I love going to concerts. While I typically try to save money, if the option to buy a concert ticket to a singer or band that I want to see arises, I usually will take it. The whole process—putting together an outfit, dancing carefree to the music, screaming my lungs out and maybe getting food after—is one that brings me so much joy and appreciation for all that I have. 

The first concert I attended was Shawn Mendes’ “Illuminate” tour in 2017 at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse. Even though I was way up in the nosebleeds, I still had a blast and look back on this experience with fondness because it instilled a love of concerts in me. I had heard live music before at musicals and other places here and there, but the whole aesthetic was different…and I loved it. 

Since then, I have had the privilege of going to many concerts. Some of my favorites include Chappel Roan, Ruel and The Chicks. Each of these concerts had very different vibes, but I loved each of them. 

Last week I attended two concerts back-to-back with my friends. On Sunday, we went to the House of Blues Cleveland and saw The 502s, and then on Monday we went to Blossom Music Center and saw Cage the Elephant. Both of these tickets were bought last school year, so we have been anticipating these few days for some time. And boy did they deliver. 

The 502s had a sign on stage that said “happiest band on earth,” and I think that perfectly sums up their music. They started the show with a contagious and joyful energy and carried that until the very last song. Even though I did not know all of their songs, I was still able to dance around and have a great time, and that to me is a marker of a good live band. 

Cage the Elephant was one of the best concerts I have been to. I knew more of their songs so I was more excited to see them and the night did not disappoint. All three of their openers had great songs, and then Cage the Elephant came out and gave a spectacular performance. The whole concert had such good vibes, the lighting was super cool and the lead singer, Matt Shultz, was great. 

Both of these concerts were great in their own way, but one thing that was the same at both was that I was able to dance around to the songs with my friends. One of my favorite parts of a concert is being able to go with other people and experience it together, so getting to dance with all my friends created memories that I won’t forget. It’s moments like these that remind me how grateful I am for my friends and the ability to have experiences like these concerts.  

While I was exhausted by Tuesday, I do not regret my decision at all. These concerts have given me amazing memories for the start of my junior year and make me so excited to plan my next concert.