BY IRVIN RIVERA

Australian singer-songwriter welcomed and serenaded the audience and fans during his performance at the YouTube Theatre in Inglewood, California on March 11, 2023. 

First of all, the whole experience was like being in a church. YouTube theatre was big but also intimate enough to engage a space filled with an audience that’s ready to receive the blessings of music from Vance Joy. 

Once you enter, you will be greeted with the stage’s set design that was simple, with a minimalist, classic touch to it. I also love the fact that you can buy and carry food and drinks to the theatre with you. Once you’re there, you can easily tell the crowd’s excitement to see and hear Vance’s music. Most of the chatter I heard around me prior to the start of the show was how much they really wanted to finally see him perform in person. It was great to share this energy with fans who enjoy his music. 

The clamor started as soon as Vance entered the stage with his guitar. People clapped, some stood up in applause, and others may have shed a tear or two. I’m not kidding. Again, this was like a church experience. 

As soon as he hit the first note, it was a magical experience from then on. He performed 17 songs including hits like Riptide, Georgia, Mess is Mine, Lay It On Me and a cover of Abba’s Gimme! Gimme! Gimme! (A Man After Midnight). 

There’s something magnetic and charming about Vance Joy’s overall performance. The songs have this quality that carries you through his experiences, and takes you on your own life journeys as well- after all, we all share the same general experiences of heartbreaks, regrets, love and joy.