For more than a decade, I somehow managed to avoid attending a live concert. Whenever friends or family suggested going to one, I always opted to stay home, preferring the comfort of my own space. Why endure a cramped tube ride when I could listen to the same songs through headphones without any hassle?
A Long-Awaited Return to Live Music
However, after attending Harry Styles' opening concert at Wembley Stadium — where he is scheduled to perform 11 more shows — I can truly say I have been missing out. My last concert was Eminem at Wembley in 2014, and before that, Jay-Z and Kanye West at the same venue in 2012. Clearly, I have a strong track record of seeing live artists at Wembley.
As I made my way to Wembley for Harry, I couldn't help but reflect on the numerous football matches I had attended there — from Tottenham in the Champions League to West Ham in the Championship playoff. This time, however, the crowd was different: adorned in pink cowboy hats. Yet, I was struck by how similar the experience was to football, with fans displaying the same passion and energy.
The Concert Experience
After an impressive opening set by Shania Twain and Simon & Garfunkel's 'Bridge Over Troubled Water' booming through the speakers, the show began with a suited and booted Harry taking the stage. Initially hesitant, I soon felt as though I had stepped into a church, with the former One Direction star as the deity. His opening ballads, 'Ready, Steady, Go' and 'Watermelon Sugar', captivated me and the thousands of audience members.
As he paid tribute to earlier singles like 'Coming Up Roses' and 'Falling', people around me began to cry, much to my confusion. But the 32-year-old summed it up perfectly when he reminded the audience how special it is to come together and enjoy such wonderful music.
A Newfound Appreciation
Why I denied myself such a public opportunity for joy remains a mystery. But if Harry has taught me one thing, it is that I need to attend many more concerts in my lifetime. The message is heard loud and clear, Harry.
