People don’t always make the best decisions in life, and I’ve certainly learned that the hard way. BUT! Attending two concerts during the first week of my junior year career was the most life-changing decision I have ever made.
Throughout my 17 years of life, I have curated a list of musicians who I need to see before I ascend off this planet. This list includes artists such as FKA twigs, Gorillaz, Brent Faiyaz, and Arctic Monkeys. In the first week of school this year, two of my favorite bands were playing in our area: Arctic Monkeys and CAS. When I saw a video of Arctic Monkeys performing their song “505” live throughout the years… needless to say fifth grade me was hooked. Originally, I was not supposed to see Arctic Monkeys in concert, but a bright light shined on me, and I was BLESSED with an Arctic Monkeys’ ticket! The concert was on September 7th, 2023 at Merriweather Post Pavilion, a day before my “Wuthering Heights” in- class essay. You might be wondering, “Sophia… how did you prepare for your in-class essay when you were at a concert the night before?” My answer to that question is: pure determination, grit, and a peach-nectarine Red Bull.
Seeing them live in concert caused me to fall more in love with Arctic Monkeys. “Body Paint” and “Knee Socks” were definitely the best songs they performed that night. Sometimes I find myself reminiscing about their music, the people I met and talked to, and singing (more like screaming) my lungs out with my friends at the concert. Just know when you see me in the hallways, I’m mentally at Merriweather Post on September 7, 2023.
Now! Supposedly, Arctic Monkeys is going to release their last album in 2024 and disband, a rumor that would mean they aren’t going on tour anymore?? I need to see them in concert again…My heart yearns for it! They were also nominated for three Grammys for the 66th Annual Grammy Awards. The gag is, Arctic Monkeys have been nominated for a Grammy nine times before, and they have NEVER won. I’m sorry, but if the disbandment rumor is true, they have to win all three of those Grammys.
For those of you who are unfamiliar with Arctic Monkeys, please check them out and give their music a try. The best way I can describe them is that they are our generation's The Rolling Stones, and Arctic Monkeys’ lead singer Alex Turner is our generation's Mick Jagger.
Thank you for reading, and I hope I piqued your interest a little in listening to Arctic Monkeys!
[Image via Unsplash]