Live Update: Lola Young – O2 Forum Kentish Town, London

      Lola Young didn't merely perform at the O2 Forum Kentish Town; she truly commanded it. The venue was filled to capacity, the energy palpable, and from the moment she stepped onto the stage, it was clear that this was more than just a performance; it was an assertion.

      Just two days earlier, she had graced the stage of the Brit Awards, one of the UK's largest platforms. However, tonight felt distinct. It was her territory. There were no television cameras, no pressures from the industry—just Lola with a crowded venue full of fans eager to see her shine. She emphasized that nothing compares to London, and the crowd demonstrated exactly that. It was vibrant and fully engaged.

      She began with a poem, setting the mood before even singing a note. Lola made it clear that her words and expressions held significance; this was the essence of the night. It served as a reminder that Lola is more than just a vocalist; she is a storyteller. Each song represented a profoundly personal experience, and she ensured that everyone in the room felt it.

      Throughout the entire performance, she dominated the stage with confidence. She danced, moved freely, and let loose, yet maintained perfect control. There was no overthinking or excessive rehearsal—only authentic presence. She appeared completely at ease, as if the stage belonged to her and always had.

      The setlist struck a perfect balance between high-energy anthems and moments of intimate quiet. "I Wish You Were Dead" was pure mayhem, transforming the venue into an electric atmosphere. Following that, "You Noticed" changed the tone entirely, featuring just Lola and a guitarist in a room that had gone completely silent. The contrast between these two moments was astonishing and showcased her remarkable versatility.

      Her rapport with the audience was seamless. The crowd fed her energy, and she reciprocated without hesitation. When "Don’t Hate Me" began, it felt as though the room had been anticipating it. The audience took charge, allowing Lola to step back and soak it all in for a moment.

      In between songs, she kept the atmosphere lively and spontaneous. She shared jokes and conversed with the crowd, allowing the music to do most of the talking. It never felt overly rehearsed or contrived; it was simply genuine. That authenticity is precisely why people resonate with her.

      The band also deserves significant acclaim. Every beat and transition was executed with precision and purpose while still allowing for moments of breathing room. They understood when to pull back and when to go all out.

      The venue was packed from the back to the front. Everyone recognized they were experiencing something extraordinary, and there was a collective sentiment that no one wanted the night to conclude.

      Then, she returned for the encore. There was only one fitting way to end the show, and the moment the opening chords of "Messy" hit, the crowd erupted. The song already feels monumental, but experiencing it live elevated it entirely. She didn't just perform it; she embodied it. Dancing across the stage, she was fully in her element, letting the crowd lead and then drawing them back in.

      Lola Young is more than just another rising star. She is the genuine article. This concert was not merely about showcasing her vocal talent; it was about demonstrating her presence, confidence, and the capability to seize any stage.

      With a packed venue, an impeccable band, and a setlist that oscillated between chaos and serene power, if you weren’t there, you truly missed out. Lola Young is only just beginning her journey.

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      Words: Myriam Boudine

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