Late last year was Khalid's breakout year, this year has been his takeover. The 19-year-old from El Paso, Texas stormed the charts with his major debut album American Teen, as well as appearing on the single charts with 'Location' and 'Young Dumb & Broke', as well as with featured appearances on Logic's '1-800-273-8255' and Calvin Harris' 'Rollin' with Future. It's been a fast rise for the teen, but don't expect him to drop off anytime soon.
To say that the crowd were excited is an understatement. In fact, I can't remember the last time I was at a show where the energy was that electric. To be completely truthful, I'm surprised some people in the crowd didn't pass out. Khalid burst out onto the stage with 'American Teen' with two dancers dressed as cheerleaders and enthusiasm that can only be described as infectious. Despite his young age, Khalid is a polished performer. There were no nerves on his part, which was evident in the way he brought the energy of the album's title track to life in a live setting. The buzz continued through to 'Let's Go', where the crowd continued to dance through the track in its entirety.
Somewhere in the first-third of the show, someone supposedly in the front section flipped off Khalid. Whatever the person did pissed off Khalid and he rightfully so called them out and asked them to leave. I mean, why would you pay money to then disrespect the artist? Some people are truly stupid. Whether it's Khalid or another artist on stage, always remember the human-element to their artistry and at the end of the day, they're just people, so show some respect.
In an emotional moment for Khalid, he dedicated his track 'Angels' to a friend who recently passed away.
Khalid closed off the initial part of his set with 'Silence', which is his collaboration with electronic-producer Marshmello. Before leaving the stage, he played his major hit 'Location' — to no surprise, his performance of this took off, and though it's down-tempo by nature, the energy was anything but this. After disappearing for a little while, he returned with 'Rollin' and his current hit 'Young Dumb & Broke'.
Khalid showed that age doesn't play a role in one's ability to perform. Though he is a teen, he showed maturity beyond his years, and he's only going to keep on getting better.
Photos and words by Kristy Smolcic
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