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Livingston in Phoenix, AZ
Livingston in Phoenix, AZ was the show that kicked off the alt-pop singer-songwriter’s second North American tour in less than a year—The Story Continues. This follows the March 7th release of his deluxe album donning the same name, A Hometown Oddessey: The Story Continues, which features nine additional tracks. The Texas-born 22-year old has been non-stop since the release of his debut album, A Hometown Oddessey, in March 2024 and shows no signs of slowing down.
Braden Bales
Canadian pop‑rock newcomer Braden Bales got the evening started and immediately set the tone for the night. Bales not only brought the vocals and musical charisma, but he quickly engaged the crowd with his sense of humor and playful between-song bantar. While introducing the song “YOU LIED”, Bales’ guitarist donned a blonde wig that comedically represented the “ex”. While most may know Bales for his TikTok viral song “Chronically Cautious”, he won over those that were being introduced to him for the first time.
The Story Continues
If you’re familiar with Livingston’s social media, you may have recognized a familiar face while scrolling. I’m referring to the one and only J.K. Simmons, the very same that lends his likeness to Livingston’s debut album trailer. He is also the voice you heard when the house lights dimmed as Simmons narrates the “Introduction” to the story that Livingston’s performance was going to tell.
The night was young as he begins his impressive 17-song setlist with “Half Life”, “Surprise”, “Warrior” and a stage presence that brought the multi-generational crowd to life. Clad in a bright blue and orange shirt to match the deluxe album, he carried out an immersive, emotional and energetic 90-minute set. Leaping between platforms, pounding on a MIDI player, interacting with the crowd. He made sure that every person in that room felt seen and the crowd responded with so much love.
Livingston debuted “Nightlight” live for the first time in Phoenix and the crowd couldn’t have been more excited. Fans knew every word and echoed it right back to him. Each song flowed into the next with intention, reinforcing the narrative quality of the album. His vocals were powerful and raw one moment, and vulnerable and intimate the next. But what was impressive was his control. Even at the most explosive choruses, he never lost steam or sacrificed emotion for volume. There was a moment during his song “Symphony” where he jumped off stage and met the crowd at the barricade. Holding the hand of a fan, pointing and singing directly to others; creating a more intimate connection, a core memory that fans won’t forget.
The night carried on with “Look Mom I Can Fly” which turned the crowd into a massive choir. Fans got out their phone lights, some had tears in their eyes—a testament to the connection the audience has with his lyrics. “Gravedigger” was the final track of the main set as Livingston stepped off staged before coming back for his encore. He returned to the stage with “Shadow,” introduced with a heartfelt message about mental health, self-worth, and growth. Followed by that familiar voice playing over the speakers; J.K. Simmons closing narration with “Godspeed”, serving as an elegant bookend to a journey unlike any typical pop concert.
Closing
Whether it’s a heartfelt piano, a dramatic baseline, or fist pumping chorus, Livingston is known for his emotionally raw lyrics and unashamed vulnerability. He didn’t just perform songs, every song felt like being invited to into his world. Like reading chapters from a diary. You could tell what this album and this tour has meant to him over the last year. The young artist may still be in his early years, but this first full headlining tour was more than a strong start. It was a declaration that he’s ready for the spotlight and everything that comes with it.
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