After two years of cancellations, Johnnyswim came to Chicago again, and we had a marvelous time seeing them at the Riviera Theatre. We had VIP tickets for the soundcheck experience, which meant we could enter the venue early for a photo with Amanda and Abner and an accoustic soundcheck. They talked with the small group, answered questions and took song requests.
The photo opp looked a bit different from our previous VIP meet-and-greets: Instead of standing next to them, we stood in front of the stage and Amanda and Abner sat on stage behind us. A photographer took the photos and then gave everyone a QR code to download their photo. We didn’t get as much time to chat with them one-on-one like we had previously, but we understood. Spoiler: Abner ended up testing positive for COVID-19 a few days later.
We wore masks when we entered the venue but took them off to finish our drinks. Luckily we did not get sick.
It made my evening that they played their Live While We’re Young/Adelina mashup. I love both those songs, and our youngest daughter is named after the latter.
It might have been a while since they performed for crowds, but they were as charismatic and talented as ever. Amanda even played the guitar for us, so they have certainly grown their skills. Their voices are perfection.
Before their performance a singer named Katelyn Tarver opened. She had a sweet voice and lovely performance.
It felt good to hear live music again. It felt like pre-COVID-19 times, even though it clearly isn’t. It also was a chance to reconnect as a married couple after a while without a date night.
Go see Johnnyswim when they come to your town. (Safely.)
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Johnnyswim at the Riv
Marette Flora is the founder of Floradise blog and personalized gift shop. Marette is a passionate storyteller and creator. She attended the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism at Arizona State University and obtained a bachelor’s degree in journalism and mass communication.
She is passionate about creating helpful and meaningful things.