Loud barking, bottle flip competitions, crowd photo shoots and marriage proposals. These are hallmarks of an Alex Sampson concert.
As two people who were not well-versed with his music prior to the Friday show, Sampson’s live vocals and charismatic delivery hooked us into fandom. His music came to life with every guitar strum and drum beat that echoed through the intimate, dark venue of Reggies Chicago.
Until the end of March, Sampson is on the “Thank You For Loving Me Tour” to promote his upcoming third EP. The concert features hits like “Pretty Baby,” “BLIND” and “There She Goes.”
Sampson’s live vocals and his band’s dynamic performance elevated his music to a whole new level. From his energetic rendition of “Lemonade” to his duet with a crowd member during an encore for “BLIND,” his stage presence is his shining characteristic — unsurprising, considering his rise to stardom through “America’s Got Talent.”
More than his music, Sampson’s trait of blending professionalism with lighthearted moments sets him apart from the masses. He took breaks to flip water bottles, laugh with his band, take selfies with the crowd and engage in conversation with audience members.
Sampson proved he was there for the community, not just the music.
His crowd interactions began within the show’s first few minutes as he caught homemade friendship bracelets thrown on stage during the opening. As he introduced himself to the crowd, the energy in the bar was palpably electric.
Sampson took a moment before “There She Goes” to shout out his girlfriend, who was standing on the balcony above the crowd. He generally keeps his relationship private, but said she was traveling with him throughout his tour.
She waved back, and the wholesome interaction made the show feel like a gathering with close friends.
Throughout his tour thus far, Sampson’s performance of “Pretty Baby” has always highlighted the friendly relationship he has with his fans. In the silence before the chorus drops, audience members typically shout something random and humorous, creating viral clips of his shows.
Tonight was no different: A man proposed to his girlfriend. Sampson was kind and stopped the show to congratulate the newly engaged couple, taking a photo and giving them the moment they deserved.
Sampson’s humble and amicable nature really shone through in this interaction. He also sang some unreleased tracks that were speculated to be on the new EP, including the tour’s title track, which closed the show.
After seeing him perform live, we have no doubt that Sampson is an artist worth watching. His merriment and personal connection to fans are sure to grow his audience. If you’re looking for a good show or to witness a marriage proposal, Sampson’s tour is a good first stop.
Email: [email protected]
Email: [email protected]
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