Marshmello rocks Nationwide Arena but PinkPantheress steals the show

I’m not going to lie to you, when they announced who would be performing at this year’s Major League Soccer All-Star game concert, I briefly double take and asked, “who?”

Not for Marshmello, but his opener PinkPantheress, which is pronounced “Pink Panther-ess” for those looking to stay hip with the kids in a world where we now use terms like “aura” and “rizz.” 

Full disclosure, this was my first concert that I’ve ever photographed or reviewed and looking through it with an objective eye, I have to say I was quite impressed with PinkPantheress. For starters, she gained fame on TikTok and apparently has legions of fans hiding within our midst. The moment she set foot on stage at Nationwide Arena the crowd in attendance roared and screamed its approval. Her supporters danced and sang the lyrics to all of her songs, especially “Boy’s a liar” seemingly without missing a beat. The Pantheress was quite engaging with the crowd, even receiving help from yours truly after asking for a fans camera to take pictures on the stage during one of her songs. The crowd never stopped having a good time and although her set was just six or seven songs, those in attendance were left clamoring for more. 

PinkPantheress’ set with fun, energetic, and sensual at times. As someone who had never previously heard of her work, I’ve found myself pulling up her essentials playlist on Apple Music and I’m ready to learn more. It will be exciting to watch how her career plays out. 

Marshmello took the stage at approximately 9 PM and wasted no time rocking the house. His energetic brand of music had the crowd instantly hooked. From his originals, to remixes, there was something for everyone in attendance. It also didn’t hurt that he utilized things like fire, streamers, and smoke. The crowd maintained its energy throughout his 90-minute set as All-Star Week got off to a rocking start.

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