Happier Than Ever Tour Review

Billie Eilish’s trippy Happier Than Ever World Tour was a thrilling experience. From the fluorescent strobe lights to the enticing visuals, Billie managed to capture a music festival vibe in an intimate concert venue. The setlist, which seemed to appeal to all of her listeners, was perfectly designed. She mixed songs from her most recent album with nostalgic throwbacks from her first two projects. Billie’s brother was accompanied on the stage by fellow songwriter Finneas. Her drummer also remained at the back of the set with Finneas. For all intents and purposes, Billie was the only performer, since her band members were not very visible to the audience. To perform for twenty thousand ecstatic fans, you have to have incredible stage presence and Billie succeeded at entertaining the concertgoers.  

Billie isn’t necessarily known for being an incredible dancer, but she supplemented that with other ways of entertaining her audience. There was never a dull moment, as Billie kept the audience engaged and on their feet. She interacted with the crowd and insisted that her fans jump up and down during multiple songs. The concert had less of a performative feel and more of a “rave”vibe . At one point, Billie had the entire audience kneel down to the floor and then jump around for the final chorus of “Oxytocin.” Every moment of the show felt so euphoric. Billie did an incredible job making a genuine connection with the audience through her performance. 

After launching confetti into the air, Billie began singing her title track and fan favorite track, “Happier Than Ever.” The song drew an incredible reaction from the audience. Thousands of people screaming the aggrieved lyrics created a beautiful scene of unity that can only be experienced at a concert. About halfway through the show, Billie was lifted by a stage lift that carried her directly over the second section of the crowd. As I scaled the railing next to my seat to get closer to Billie, I reminded myself what I had been missing for the last two years. The ravenous thrill of screaming my lungs out to Billie, who was now only a few feet away, was such a special experience that could not be taken for granted. I still have not (and may never) emotionally recover from the concert.  I’m forever grateful that Billie was able to make my first post-Covid concert such a magical experience.

By Sawyer Sugarman