I left the stadium speechless with tear-streaked cheeks after hearing “Landslide” close the night. Still going strong at 76 years old and continuing to dazzle and inspire teens in attendance, Stevie Nicks moved the audience during her concert in Hartford on Oct. 25.
The minute I left the stadium, buzzing with adrenaline, I immediately texted all of my friends: “I had so much fun, every song I hoped she would play, she played, even ‘Rhiannon’ and ‘Gypsy!’”
Growing up, I used to only recognize Nicks’ hit songs on the radio: “Edge of Seventeen” and “Dreams.” As I started listening to more classics over many years, I gained a ton of appreciation for her music in general. I slowly began having a true connection to her songs.
Leading up to the concert, I listened to her songs on repeat during car rides, school, and even during tests. I couldn’t wait to hear some of my favorites live, see the crowd styled hippie-vintage, and see the legendary performer in person. Thinking about it made me jittery.
As we smoothly traveled through the giant stadium to approach our seats. Long skirts, elegant hats, and twirling dresses enchanted me. The atmosphere was mystical, and the air was filled with anticipation and excitement.
Once we found our seats, my eagerness set in, practically shaking in excitement as Vanessa Carlton played her opening tunes.
Soon enough, Nicks’ grand entrance started, as the electric “Runnin’ Down A Dream” began. I started belting out every word, overwhelmed with joy. Song by song, I was trying to snap as many photos as I could while still enjoying
everything in the moment.
Nicks also sang some classic covers in memory of Tom Petty, her once very close friend. Once “Free Fallin” by Petty began to play, the audience erupted into tears. As displayed pictures of him filled the background. I was in a puddle of tears, with goosebumps all down my arms.
The laser-like lights and visuals were pulsing, varying from a gold theme during “Gold Dust Woman” to an electrifying blue-ish neon colors and pink hues. Each photo displayed in the background enhanced the experience, making it feel as if the crowd around me wasn’t even there.
Nick’s stage presence was incredible, filling the entire stadium with joy and passion. She danced and twirled around, interacted with the audience, told stories with her heart, and did it all with a radiant smile on her face.
Looking back, the Nicks experience was truly one of a kind, and it was such an amazing and unforgettable night, leaving me in awe.
