SOS to SZA
Article written by Destiny Ross and photos by Alec Moody
D4vd wasted no time in making an impact. By the second song of his set, the audience was already enthralled, waving their hands and raising their flashlights throughout the crowd. He engaged with the crowd, greeting us between each song and encouraging us to light up the arena with our flashlights, promising to sing us a lullaby. The crowd eagerly complied, and as D4vd serenaded us with his sweet, melodic voice, a sea of flashlights created a magical atmosphere.
D4vd's performance wasn't just about his vocals; the spotlight also shone on his bandmates, particularly the guitarist, who had an impressive rack of around three guitars. Throughout the set, he skillfully switched between guitars, adding a dynamic element to the performance. Also allowing a wider variety of tracks on the setlist. D4vd expressed his appreciation for the crowd's energy and charm, equally thanking SZA for the opportunity to open for her. He also shared a personal touch by mentioning his sister and performing the touching song "Here With Me" with her on the screen all while he did. He encouraged the audience to record the moment when he sang a song about "being ghosted," and he closed his set with a breathtaking acapella performance that filled the room with raw emotion. D4vd's final act of doing a flip for the audience left him and everyone else equally as giddy with anticipation for SZA.
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Before SZA graced the stage, the atmosphere at the Delta Center was electric. Catchy lyrics from various artists played over the speakers, and a fan's spontaneous dancing in the floor seats had the entire stadium cheering in unison. The energy in the air was palpable, and it was clear that the audience was ready for the main event. When SZA finally made her entrance, it was nothing short of breathtaking. She appeared solo in the back of the crowd, hidden beneath a black robe, and gradually made her way to the stage. As she ran through the crowd, the entire building seemed to vibrate with excitement. A massive screen-covered box illuminated, introducing her as it slowly ascended. Once she settled at the center of the stage, SZA began her set with "Seek & Destroy" and revealed that this was her first time performing in Salt Lake City.
The performance was nothing less than an intricate piece of art between SZA and her talented team of dancers and bandmates. The dancers' movements conveyed the emotions SZA aimed to express through her music, creating a mesmerizing visual narrative. As she transitioned into "Love Galore", the dancers gracefully exited the stage, giving SZA the opportunity to connect with the audience on a more personal level. Throughout the entire show, the set design was impeccable, evolving with each act to personify the album's story and SZA's artistic vision. SZA herself underwent costume changes that mirrored the progression of the show, shedding clothes as she emerged from her sets and donning new outfits for each act.
SZA's stage presence was nothing short of captivating, holding the audience's rapt attention throughout the entire three-hour set. Her powerful, emotive vocals and the mesmerizing stage design left an indelible mark on all in attendance, making it a night to remember for Salt Lake City. SZA's performance was a true testament to her artistry, and it was an experience that transcended the boundaries of a typical concert. It was a night of music, emotion, and unforgettable memories that will resonate with the audience for years to come. If you can swing it, catch a show at the end of her tour!
Relive the night over and over with our playlist of the entire setlist!
