The Jonas Brothers have been a pop culture phenomenon since 2005 and performed five albums in one night. Looks like boy bands are here to stay!
It’s funny because most musicians claim they have a special connection to Toronto, but the Jonas Brothers have more proof. They filmed Camp Rock in Haliburton, ON at Camp White Pine, which many of my friends attended. They also launched The Burning Up Tour (2008) in Toronto.
The Jonas Brothers talked a lot about their “journey”, which sort of sounds cringeworthy. However, I liked how they reflected on starting at the Molson Amphitheatre and then gaining so much momentum that they filled the Rogers Centre last night. Making that comparison like “started from the bottom, now we here!” sounds more genuine than simply saying “Toronto, you’re my favourite city” which they might say everywhere.
The best highlight was seeing Nick Jonas’ solo performance of Jealous 10 years after meeting him in New York. I saw him perform on Broadway in How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying and he’s the biggest star I’ve met at the stage door. It was cool to see him in his element as a pop star and share commentary throughout the night. The concert was also funny timing because I just watched Nick’s cameo in the movie Love Again alongside his wife Priyanka Chopra Jonas.
I can’t believe I got to hear Cake By The Ocean live! It was released on September 18, 2015, which is a bizarre coincidence out of all the possible dates. Last night, they approached a young woman with a sign who asked them for a wedding song recommendation. They had already played one of her favourite songs, so they performed and dedicated I Believe to her. She said she’s getting married on September 18, which is also my best friend’s wedding anniversary! Wow.
While surrounded by emotional fans, I thought about who else might give me an equally profound reaction based on nostalgia. Miley Cyrus immediately came to mind, as she was in Hannah Montana around the same time as Camp Rock. She’s taking a break from touring, but if she books future shows, I’ll be there to hear Flowers live. I would also love to see One Direction, as they’re a central part of my workout playlist!
It was so rare to attend a 3-hour long concert. Hopefully other musicians will realize that you can give yourself and fans a short intermission that lets you keep the party going longer!