On the first real warm and sunny day in a long time, we trekked out to see Billie Eilish. As we approached off the freeway onto Saltair Drive, we watched droves of people park alongside the frontage that are hoping to avoid the outgoing traffic. A yellow school bus shuttled back and forth between the overflow lot and the already packed Saltair. The initial plan involved this show being at The Complex, but after seeing all the people and hearing stories of ten-hour waits for front row and bar spots, it was obvious that Saltair was the ultimate location.
As we entered the venue, we transitioned from the bright outdoors to the dark interior. Crossing the unused stage inside, the approach to the outdoors was blinding as the end-of-day sun began to burst across the salt flats. Walking outside, the view of the Great Salt Lake is stunning: The mirrored reflection creates a mirage in the landscape, extending off into the infinity of the sky. The crowd was filled with younger folks, a fact made obvious by the less-than-crowded 21+ balcony over the overflowing grassy area. Maybe people just wanted to be close; or maybe, as a 17 year-old herself, Billie Eilish draws a crowd that deeply empathizes with her music.
Grappling with tough topics like self confidence and growing up in a weird, changing world, Billie Eilish provides the mantra and voice to a generation that is feeling the discomfort of growing into young adulthood. As someone that is rapidly moving out of that stage, being in the venue on June 4 brought a wave of nostalgia for those initial days of self exploration. When We All Fall Asleep, Where Do We Go? shows off the musical production of a genius by using a mix of weird sounds and interesting lyrics. I’ve listened to the album over and over again, and every time I find something new to enjoy. With the references to The Office and the sarcastic tone of each song, Billie Eilish has created an interesting piece of art that brought out the devotion of everyone in the Salt Lake crowd that beautiful afternoon.
After putting all of his energy into his performance, Denzel Curry collapses in exhaustion. Photo: Colton Marsala
Primed to perform, opener Denzel Curry broods as he prepares to launch into his setlist. Photo: Colton Marsala
As Denzel Curry performs, the pathway to the stage separates one side of the crowd from the other. Photo: Colton Marsala
With the crowds’s hands reaching upwards, rapper Denzel Curry rattles off his verse. Photo: Colton Marsala
Denzel Curry confidently stands as he raps “Speedboat”, a song from his new album, Zuu. Photo: Colton Marsala
The sun sets on the Salt Lake City crowd attending Bill Eilish’s show at Saltair on June 4th. Photo: Colton Marsala
With dreads flying, Denzel Curry pumps up the sold-old out crowd in preparation for headliner Billie Eilish. Photo: Colton Marsala
The beautiful view from the Saltair. Photo: Colton Marsala
Looking towards the horizon, attendees patiently await headliner Billie Eilish. Photo: Colton Marsala
Concertgoers congregate and coexist. Photo: Colton Marsala
Security monitor and hold back the pulsing crowd as they push to get close to Billie Eilish. Photo: Colton Marsala
Neon green is one way to stand out and attract the attention of fans. Photo: Colton Marsala
Double fisting a couple cell phones is the only way to properly capture the moment! Photo: Colton Marsala
Headliner Billie Eilish serenades the sold-out crowd. Photo: Colton Marsala
The Rapture lifts Billie Eilish up as she rocks the Saltair crowd. Photo: Colton Marsala
Billie Illuminated with blue and red lights. Photo: Colton Marsala
Billie Eilish stares down the SLC crowd. Photo: Colton Marsala
Hailing from California, Billie Eilish brings her tour to Salt Lake City. Photo: Colton Marsala
Big mood got Billie like…. Photo: Colton Marsala
“Falling into your Ocean Eyes.” Photo: Colton Marsala
“When we fall asleep, where do we go?”
Photo: Colton Marsala
Billie Eilish encourages the crowd to sing along as she croons to the June night sky. Photo: Colton Marsala
“I only see you when I close my eyes.” Photo: Colton Marsala
The crowd reaches towards Billie Eilish in anticipation and excitement. Photo: Colton Marsala
Billie Eilish levitates. Photo: Colton Marsala
Billie Eilish and her supporting band play. Photo: Colton Marsala
“You should see me in a crown.” Photo: Colton Marsala