CONCERT: Taylor Swift

5/5

**VIEW PICTURES FROM THE SHOW HERE**

It is safe to say Taylor Swift has quickly become the queen of pop, just shortly after changing her country sound to become the style her record 1989 has generated. If you don't believe me, you should attend The 1989 World Tour to see for yourself. Fans of all different shapes and sizes filled out the entire room to a sold out show at PNC Arena in Raleigh, NC last night. Not only was every seat filled, but it was filled with a fan who made a Swift costume, dressed like her, or better yet made a light up sign. She even shouted out to some sign makers during her set!

If you are going to be the queen of pop, you have to bring glitter and lots of it! She had a total of about 8 or 9 outfit changes, I lot count! With every outfit change came a new dazzling costume that lit up the stage against her amazing set. Her setlist consisted of mostly 1989, but what else can you expect when it is called The 1989 World Tour? However, she did put a twist on a few oldies to give them a taste of her new style. 

If you think that Taylor Swift went all out with her costumes, wait till you see her revolving catwalk that lifts up to the entire arena! Speaking of cats, you can see an adorable video of her with Meredith Grey and Olivia Bensen (I feel like at this point in time, I don't need to clarify that they are not the characters in those TV shows).

Along with Taylor's songs, she had inspirational talks. When Taylor talks, fans really truly listen, because she makes all her fans feel like friends and family. She talked about sticking up for who you are and even made my friend cry, because of how powerful Taylor's message was. That I think is truly important when it comes to fame, is not only striving in your talent, but being able to use your fame in an impactful way not only through song, but through message. 

Before I give too much away (because I KNOW, you can't miss The 1989 World Tour) I can 100% tell you that you will not be disappointed. Her backup dancers are on point, her set design is killer, and of course Taylor Swift's pipes are better than ever. If you don't leave with a smile bigger than your face, you are doing it wrong. 

**VIEW PICTURES FROM THE SHOW HERE**

CONCERT: Paradise Fears

CHECK OUT PHOTOS FROM THEIR SET HERE

I remember back in 2010, or was it 2011, that I was standing outside waiting in line for some concert of some punk pop band in North Carolina, and I see these band members going up to fans in line promoting their music. I thought that they might be the opener, but nope that was not the case. This band was Paradise Fears, and they were following the tour just to promote their music and to interact face to face with fans. That is when I knew that this band had dedication.

Flash forward 5 years later, and here I am seeing Paradise Fears  not only performing for thousands of people, but also have a strong fan base. The girl in front of me was singing every word at the top of her lungs, and I couldn't help but smile thinking of how much they deserve that and much more.  

Their set was very energetic, and they really know how to work a crowd with their great personal stage performance. Coming out to the Parks and Recreation theme song was definitely a crowd pleaser. Their set list included classics like "Sanctuary" , and "Lullaby", but I would have to say the best part is when they auto-tuned a fans voice and made it part of their song "Back to Life"!

You do not want to miss Paradise Fears set when they open for Andy Grammer and Alex & Sierra on tour this spring! Check out the dates here.