The Special 2our: Lizzo concert review Lifestyle

“It’s about damn time”

Lizzo performed in Oklahoma.

On May 20, rapper, singer and actress Lizzo took stage at the BOK Center in Tulsa, marking her first ever show in the state. The Special 2our is in support of her fourth studio album, “Special,” and features opening act, Latto.

Entering the BOK for a concert is a feeling unlike no other. Live music is a beautiful way to bring people who have something in common together, and the show began long before Lizzo made her first appearance. Right at 8 p.m., Latto’s

DJ had the entire venue singing popular songs such as Adele’s “Hello,” which perfectly prepared the audience for the energy Latto brought to the stage. Opening with “Soufside,” Latto had four incredibly talented dancers with her on stage. A pressing issue Latto has expressed strong feelings toward is protecting women’s rights. While performing “P*ssy,” her dancers carried various signs that read “my body, my choice,” including the visuals on the main screen center stage. You could feel the tone shift within the arena as her eight song set progressed; there was a lot of love and support in the venue. Audibly, fans grew increasingly eager and restless for the main set.

As Lizzo took the stage, it was evident that she truly embodies the positivity she speaks. Well known for her body positivity, all-loving and caring persona, it truly felt like she created a special bond with each individual in the venue that night.

Starting off with hits such as “2 Be Loved (Am I Ready?)” and “Boys,” Lizzo was backed up by a five-piece all-woman band, three vocalists and nine dancers. The on-stage chemistry Lizzo has with the other performers is heart-warming. This made for an over-the-top, amazing show.

Before her hit song “Special,” Lizzo dedicated the performance to those who lost their lives in the Tulsa Massacre in 1921. She stated, “History is meant to be learned from. We know about the tragedy, let’s talk about the prosperity of Black Wall Street. When we see someone who looks different, we don’t resort to violence. We are doing it right now in this arena. This is love, this is acceptance.”

“Everybody’s Gay,” was another uplifting and powerful song performed during the night. With pride month around the corner, it is important to have representation and strength in allies. Every chance she had to express support for her fans in the venue, she took, and it was done so tastefully. Lizzo is not scared to use her platform to talk about these important topics; she stated that she believes we can all change the world. She also showcased another one of her many talents during the show: playing the flute. Through all of the elaborates, it was entracing to witness a performance where you can truly tell the artist puts their all into each show and loves what they do.

Before performing another hit song, “Good as Hell,” Lizzo took time to interact with her fans close to stage. She got to know the fans she spoke to in those short but meaningful moments, and it was obvious she genuinely cared for what her fans had to say. She took pictures with multiple fans, and told those in general admission she would sign anything they gave to security for them. One impactful conversation she had with a fan led to them thanking Lizzo for all she does for the Black and Queer community, and the entire venue roared. entertainment.ed@ocolly.com

“This is a safe place to be yourself, we are here to celebrate each other,” Lizzo said. Her encore included “Juice” and “About Damn Time,” which ended the night. The performance was impactful for people of all ages, no matter your gender or self expression. One thing is certain when it comes to Lizzo’s tour: you truly leave feeling special.