That’s right — it’s that time of year again. Another successful WCHS graduation has passed, the weather is getting warmer and beach week is finally here for seniors. As we approach the end of the school year, there are always activities that WCHS students are looking forward to to kick off the perfect summer. And this year, it seems like going to concerts is a popular way for teenagers to express what they love most.
Going to a concert can be a very unique experience, regardless of how many times you have been before. A concert can provide people with a lifetime experience that cannot be replicated through a simple recording on a phone. The connection between a fan and an artist is extremely special, as seeing a favorite artist perform live can allow a person to experience their passion, talent and personality firsthand, enhancing their appreciation for their music.
“The atmosphere of a concert is unmatched, as these events create an environment that has energy, excitement and hype,” WCHS sophomore Corey Maker said. “The combination of live music, lights and the crowd’s enthusiasm is amazing.”
This energetic atmosphere of the crowd makes it even easier to see why a concert can be so special to students. Coming together to experience the same love for music can create a sense of community and belonging.
“I listen to rap the most since it is my favorite genre of music,” Maker said. “I mostly listen to music on Spotify, but occasionally I listen to the radio and even some old vinyls that I have.”
Rap music seems to be a teenager favorite, as the genre has gained a ton of popularity in this generation from multiple streaming sources. One worldwide artist that might interest students in going to see is 21 Savage’s “American Dream Tour.” 21 Savage offers a raw and authentic style of performing, as his energy and the way he connects with the audience can create a powerful and memorable experience for all.
WCHS students who enjoy rap music will also have a good time at Future and Metro Boomin’s “We Trust You Tour.” Seeing two of the biggest artists in the hip-hop industry in the same show can provide fans with an opportunity to see numerous hit collaborations performed live, and encounter an event full of versatility, as both artists have tracks ranging from hard-hitting trap to more melodic and introspective tracks.
Some WCHS students may also be interested in country music. While most country artists went on tour during the school year, there are still a couple of big artists that are coming to D.C. in the summer. One of these artists is Zach Bryan, whose tour is one of the biggest this summer in all genres. While country music is not as popular as other genres, Zach Bryan is a name that stands out among all as he is one of the most popular artists currently. Country music offers listeners a unique style, as they enjoy harmonies accompanied by instruments, simple form and folk lyrics.
“For me, country music is something that really influenced me as a kid because I grew up around that kind of music,” WCHS sophomore Ryan King said. “While country isn’t as popular as other genres, I think people at our school still enjoy listening to some of the bigger and more well-known country artists since it is a very chill type of music.”
Music festivals are also a big way for people to come together to share their love for music. Festivals differ from concerts, as these festivals mostly take place outdoors rather than indoors, and stretch for about two to three days. Perhaps the biggest music festival D.C. has hosted yet is coming this summer, as the “Broccoli City Festival” takes place on July 27-28 at Audi Field. This festival will feature around thirty different artists, including Gunna, Lil Yachty, Bryson Tiller, Megan Thee Stallion and many more. The DMV is in for a treat as there will be many artists and fans from different genres of music who can connect and share their love for music.
“One concert that I want to go to is definitely the Broccoli City Festival,” King said. “There are going to be a ton of different artists there and they are all coming to DC which is cool. I would definitely recommend seeing a concert at least sometime when you are in high school or even college since these are moments that you are never going to forget.”