August 7, 2024 – The Astro – La Vista, NE
It was a perfect night for an outdoor concert at The Astro in La Vista, Nebraska on Wednesday August 7, 2024. Thousands of fans packed the amphitheater to witness Melissa Etheridge’s “I’m Not Broken Tour,” with supporting act Jewel.
The evening kicked off with an amazing set from Jewel, and she definitely gave the crowd their money’s worth!
Jewel is an American singer-songwriter, musician, producer, and actress. Born on May 23, 1974, in Payson, Utah, she was raised in the wilds of Homer, Alaska. Jewel’s journey to stardom began when she moved to California and started performing in coffeehouses and small venues. She burst onto the music scene in the mid-90s with her debut album, “Pieces of You,” which featured hit singles like “Who Will Save Your Soul” and “You Were Meant for Me.”
Her soulful voice, heartfelt lyrics, and folk-influenced sound quickly garnered her a massive following. Over the years, Jewel has released multiple albums spanning various genres, including pop, country, and children’s music. She’s also authored several books, including poetry and memoirs, showcasing her diverse artistic talents. Despite her success, Jewel remains grounded, often drawing on her rugged upbringing and personal struggles in her work. Her resilience and authenticity continue to inspire fans around the world.
From the moment she stepped on stage, you could feel the audience’s excitement. Jewel’s voice was as stunning live as it is on her albums, effortlessly hitting all the high notes and conveying deep emotion in every song.
She kicked off the night with “Standing Still” and followed up with a slew of her classic hits like “Who Will Save Your Soul” and “You Were Meant for Me,” which had everyone singing along.
Her acoustic set was particularly magical; it felt like an intimate jam session with a close friend.
One of the highlights for me was her performance of “Foolish Games,” where her raw, heartfelt delivery gave everyone chills. She also played some newer tracks and covers, showing off her versatility and wide-ranging musical influences. “Hate Hate” was a fan favorite and got a great ovation!
She looked and sounded beautiful and her set was a perfect mix of nostalgia and fresh energy. Her genuine warmth, storytelling, and musical talent made for an evening that felt both cozy and electrifying. If you get the chance to see her live, don’t miss it!
Jewel has over 1.5 million monthly listeners on Spotify and her latest single, “The Portal,” is definitely worth checking out!
After a brief intermission, it was time for Melissa Etheridge, and the crowd went crazy!
Melissa Etheridge is an American rock singer-songwriter, guitarist, and activist, born on May 29, 1961, in Leavenworth, Kansas. Known for her raspy voice and emotionally charged lyrics, she burst onto the music scene in the late 80s with her self-titled debut album. Her big break came with her fourth album, “Yes I Am,” which featured iconic hits like “Come to My Window” and “I’m the Only One.”
Etheridge’s career is marked by her powerful music and candid approach to personal topics, including her public coming out as a lesbian in 1993, which made her a trailblazer in the LGBTQ+ community. She has released numerous albums over the decades, showcasing her ability to blend rock, folk, and blues influences seamlessly.
Melissa has received several awards throughout her career. She won two Grammy Awards for Best Female Rock Vocal Performance, one for “Ain’t It Heavy” in 1992 and another for “Come to My Window” in 1994. In 2007, she won an Academy Award for Best Original Song for “I Need to Wake Up,” which was featured in the documentary “An Inconvenient Truth.”
Beyond her musical achievements, Etheridge is also known for her activism, particularly in the fields of environmentalism and LGBTQ+ rights. Her passion and authenticity continue to resonate with fans, making her a beloved figure in the music world.
From the moment she walked on stage, her energy was contagious.
Her voice was in top form, full of power and emotion. She played a mix of her classic hits and some newer songs, each one delivered with the same raw intensity that she’s known for. “Come to My Window” and “I’m the Only One” were definite highlights, with the audience belting out the choruses right along with her.
One of the best parts of the concert was how she connected with the audience. Between songs, Melissa shared stories and jokes, making the whole night feel intimate and personal. Her guitar solos were incredible, showcasing her amazing talent and making it clear why she’s such a respected musician.
The entire performance was a reminder of why Melissa Etheridge has had such a lasting career. Her passion for music and genuine connection with her fans made for an unforgettable evening.
Currently, she has 836 thousand monthly listeners on Spotify, and her latest album, “I’m Not Broken (Live from Topeka Correctional Facility) is fantastic!
If you ever get the chance to see her live, don’t hesitate – it’s an experience you won’t want to miss!
Jewel
Melissa Etheridge