SideEfx of a Concert: Expectations

I was invited to a concert a few weeks ago and was sent the link. While viewing the artist lineup for the Atlanta R&B Music Experience, I became instantly excited and agreed to go. Fast forward to Saturday night; I was anxious and nervous before arriving. I haven’t been around many people since pre-pandemic and did not know what to expect. It took 35 minutes to walk from the parking lot to the seats. Once seated, DJ AOne began hyping the crowd. He kept the crowd going! His energy and engagement with the crowd were great to watch. All the artists who came out as part of the lineup and special guests were terrific.

There were some hiccups, but that was to be expected. That’s the concertgoer's experience: something unexpected happens. The hiccups that stood out to me were:

Sound.

All I can say is, why? And last, two hiccups in one,

And the missing artist and group.

Now it didn’t take a genius to add up that there was an issue. The DJ was staying on longer to fill the time (I hope he got paid double, by the way). The problems were apparent at the beginning (the concert started late). It became crystal clear when the DJ was on stage for longer than expected. Dru Hill did not perform. I had no clue that they were not performing. I was looking forward to hearing them sing live. But that didn’t happen.

Then Monica’s performance began at about 12:06. AM. Yep, AM. I watched in amazement how Monica entered the stage. She walked out, displaying grace and confidence. She knew the crowd was restless, and she got everyone settled (previously chanting for her) with her beautiful voice and then walked off the stage. I love the energy Monica was giving. I did not stay to the end, so I don’t know how the night officially ended. I hope everything is okay with Monica, but sis, fingers are pointing at you for being tardy to your party. I don’t think it’s fair to place the blame on your shoulders, but this is just my opinion. I pray that these rumors can be put to rest soon.

I am a fan of each performer. Unfortunately, my expectations of this event exceeded what was given. I’m still shocked by what took place. 😮 I was at a concert for 5 hours and 40 minutes (it was still going when I decided to leave), waiting to hear Monica’s angelic voice. That’s time I can’t get back, and no answer is given, just rumors. It makes no sense, and I try not to make sense of things that happen with people who are wealthier than me. But as a fan, I would like to know this: where is the apology?

That’s just my two cents from what I viewed at the concert. I don’t want to believe the rumors and hope someone will eventually come out and apologize for what happened during Saturday’s event. Until next time.