2024 has been nothing short of spectacular when it came to live music, showcasing everything from genre-defining acts to beloved icons. With unique performances occurring across multiple stages and countries, the year has produced unforgettable moments. Here's a look at some of the best concerts and memorable showcases this year.
Starting off strong was underground rapper Nettspend at the Village Underground, who blasted through London with his high-energy debut. This 17-year-old artist captivated audiences with chaotic vibes, mosh pits, and exhilarating stage dives, marking it as one of the most remarkable debuts of the year. Amid fears of ID checks, fans energetically showed their support, proving his rise through the underground scene alongside fellow artists like Lancey Foux and Snow Strippers.
Similarly, English act Shygirl lit up the stage at Radio 1’s Big Weekend. Her performance radiated the fun and flair of contemporary electronic music, transforming the festival tent atmosphere. Just as the sunshine streamed through, her vibrant energy and catchy club tracks transported attendees to the heart of Berlin’s nightlife.
At the BET Awards, Tyla dominated the R&B scene, delivering standout performances alongside Gunna and Skillibeng. With the success of her track 'Water' on TikTok and her Grammy win for Best African Music Performance, Tyla's act was not just about vocals; it was about creating a cohesive and visually stunning experience for the audience.
Rock legends Pearl Jam took their fans on an emotional rollercoaster during their concert at Sydney's ENGIE Stadium, performing 'Hunger Strike' for the first time in ten years. This powerful tribute resonates deeply following the death of their friend Chris Cornell, making it one of the year’s greatest rock showcases.
Charli xcx, known for making waves with her trademark sound, unleashed her creativity at the Boiler Room New York, performing with celebrities like Julia Fox and Addison Rae. This performance marked the beginning of the summer's 'it girl' music trend, merging elements of DJ culture with her own music, capturing the attention of thousands.
Another highlight was the dynamic duo of Tracy Chapman and Luke Combs at the Grammys. Their rendition of Chapman's 'Fast Car' sparked nostalgia, bringing the audience back to the song's roots, enriched by Combs' earthy vocals.
Stevie Nicks delivered one of her most touching performances at BST Hyde Park since Christine McVie's passing, serenading the crowd with emotional covers joined by Harry Styles. This powerful show highlighted the lasting impact of Fleetwood Mac’s music and Nicks's prowess.
Meanwhile, The Cure enchanted audiences at Troxy London with hits spanning their legendary catalog and freshly released material. The ambiance was bolstered by Robert Smith’s charismatic stage presence, showcasing the band's ability to attract and entertain fans across generations.
On a different note, Doechii proved to be unforgettable during her NPR Tiny Desk performance, blending jazz fusion and hip-hop flawlessly. The show's intimate setting allowed for palpable chemistry among performers, which quickly became renowned.
Reflecting on the year beyond individual performances, country music saw significant growth influenced by pop stars dabbling in the genre. Washington emerged as ground zero for budding talents like Zach Top and Tucker Wetmore, whose styles reinstated authenticity to country music.
Despite some challenges with local venues, there has been resilience displayed by Seattle's music scene, which saw more openings than closures this year, promising future growth.
Nevertheless, 2024 was not without sorrow, as it is always marked by the losses of significant figures. The passing of Quincy Jones and journalist Charles R. Cross serves as reminders of the impact these individuals had on Seattle’s music heritage.
Overall, 2024 showcased vibrant performances and artists who enamored audiences worldwide. With promising trends ushering thoughts of innovation, the future of music looks bright as we step boldly toward 2025.
