For someone who really loves and is passionate about music, it’s insane to me how I never went to a concert until my first semester of college. I had heard about Music midtown before I arrived for orientation, immediately knowing I wanted to go after viewing the lineup. In preparing for the two-day festival, I was too much of a perfectionist and let overthinking get the best of me. Looking back, I realize that in overthinking about the experience; I didn’t live in the moment as much as I could. Of course, though every concert after that I stopped planning as much each time because I gained confidence, knowledge, and more.
Should’ve Worn My Adidas!
On the first day right out the gate the first performance I experienced was RUN DMC, which is still wild to think about! With it being a once in a life-time opportunity, I had to take in the whole environment that afternoon in Piedmont Park. From the beautiful views of Atlanta’s buildings, clear skies full of planes flying in/out of Hartsfield, and so much more! Piedmont Park is an insane way to engage fully in nature, with the city within view.
Instead of going across the park to watch Iggy Azalea, I got a closer spot to view Lorde’s performance despite knowing extraordinarily little about her. Lorde’s performance blew me away, from her vocals to the stage and lighting design. Of course I walked away a fan!
While trekking across Piedmont Park that night for the final set, I took in John Mayer, performing a cover of a love song. Because who wouldn’t, honestly? Still making it in time for Jack White’s set and ending day one on a fantastic note.
Ultraviolence–Lana Del Ray’s Live Performance
My second day felt a lot less stressful after surviving the first, but honestly it had to do with B.O.B setting the mood for the day with his performance of Headband. I fell in love again with Fitz & The Tantrums after their set. Later, losing the small amount of respect I had for Lana Del Ray (a shame, I know.)
The REAL Slim Shady
Going into the final set of my first music festival, I knew I was going to “camp out” in a certain spot. Being a fan of Eminem since I was a kid, I went in knowing I was going to get my money’s worth. However, I was not expecting Eminem’s set to move the audience like Moses parting the red sea! Despite being so far away from the stage, the energy of the crowd back there was the same intensity, if not more, as those up close to the stage.
Can I Get An Encore?
When I was a teenager, I pictured myself being a concertgoer differently, boxing myself in to only fit one idea. Once I experienced Music Midtown, I learned any concert or experience is truly what I make it to be! I wholeheartedly believe that every college student should go to one big music festival or concert in college. It helped me gain a whole new sense of confidence and created a new passion relating to music. Which over the years has unlocked for me a variety of new experiences, that go beyond concerts.
And just as many others, I am THRILLED to attend a concert in 2021, unlocking more adventures!