An artist whose name used to incite dread, Justin Bieber has undergone a transformation over the past year which has widened his listening audience from doe-eyed, insane schoolgirls to similarly doe-eyed, insane lovers of house music; or perhaps house pop, depending on how you view this eclectic singer who garners a rather divisive opinion from critics and casual music listeners alike.
If you’re wondering who you should be seeing live this year, I’m asking that you stop rolling your eyes for a second and consider Justin Bieber. I know many of you are likely music boffins, and you’re probably quite particular about your taste, but when it comes a live setting, there are worse artists you could be watching. Put aside your preconceptions, and consider why this might be Bieber’s upcoming tour might be worthy of seeing, especially if you’re in the San José area.
Why should you see Justin Bieber?
Yes, this was most likely the first question on your mind. I was the same too. When I was young, I used to have an irrational hatred for the guy. Whether it was jealousy, or a reaction to the repetitive ear strain caused by hearing the word ‘baby’ on loop, I thought he was a one-trick pony. I was wrong, and many people are still trying to pigeon-hole the guy for the same reason.
He may not even be a saint on a personal level, but music is about more than the person behind it. Human beings are flawed. And I know Bieber has received stick for his recent outbursts during music performances, but I suppose he just wants the show to be appreciated. An excessively-talking audience during a concert can be a little irritating. That’s the thing; there’s no denying that pure effort goes into his live shows. He wants people to enjoy it, and they do. If you want to see a real performance, I really think you need to watch Justin this year.
How can you afford to go and see him?
Maybe you don’t need convincing. Maybe you need money. Or, if you’re not in the San José area, and you’ve either missed your chance to see him elsewhere or he isn’t even playing where you live, then you’re most likely having a break down right about now. Pull yourself together – it’s going to be okay! It’s the torture so many experience when their favourite artist only plays a handful of locations. Travelling somewhere, even if it’s only for an event on one night, can cost you an arm and a leg, especially if you’re young and jobless.
You’re wondering how on earth you can afford to travel to see Bieber perform this year, and you might be considering robbing a bank, but I want to offer you a solution whereby you don’t end up in jail afterwards. Have I sold that well? There are always ways to go anywhere in the world if you want it badly enough, and it all comes down to what you can offer in return. You could volunteer in Costa Rica, and this would be a great way to give back to the community whilst also having the chance to see your main man, Biebs, in the evening. You’ll feel like you’ve really earned it then, too. It’s a win-win situation.
Justin is playing only a handful of locations this year, but, if you really want to see him, I think the best way to do it is make a real adventure out of the experience. Don’t travel miles for one night and then return home the next day; get the full feel of the place you’re visiting. Get the full experience, and let the insatiable hunger for Bieber build over the course of a few days, at least.