Benson Boone’s Memorable Debut at RiverBeat Music Festival

News Summary

Benson Boone captivated the audience at the RiverBeat Music Festival in Memphis with his high-energy performance on May 4. This marked his concert debut in the city, just after his appearance on ‘Saturday Night Live.’ The 22-year-old pop sensation showcased dynamic vocals and engaging stage antics, featuring heartfelt moments dedicated to his late grandmother. With a diverse setlist and enthusiastic fan interaction, Boone left a lasting impression, solidifying his rise in the music industry.

Memphis

Benson Boone delivered a high-energy performance at the RiverBeat Music Festival in Memphis on May 4, marking his concert debut in the city. The event took place at Tom Lee Park as part of the festival’s second annual celebration, which ran from May 2 to May 4, 2025. Boone took the stage less than 24 hours after his appearance on NBC’s “Saturday Night Live” in New York City, adding to the excitement surrounding his rising career.

A significant audience gathered to witness the 22-year-old pop sensation from Washington state perform, drawn by his increasing popularity after a breakout showing at the Grammy Awards telecast in February. Boone’s dynamic performance style, characterized by his impressive vocal capabilities and an engaging stage presence, left the crowd cheering and energized.

Concert Highlights

Benson Boone kicked off the concert with the song “Sorry I’m Here For Someone Else,” which included a striking backflip off a piano. The artist’s stage attire deviated from his usual flamboyant jumpsuits; he donned a black jacket and jeans for this performance. His setlist showcased songs that highlighted his vocal prowess and youthful appeal, including tracks like “Drunk in My Mind,” “Cry,” and “Pretty Slowly.”

One of the more poignant moments of the night came when Boone requested the audience to set aside their phones during his heartfelt rendition of “In the Stars,” a song dedicated to his late grandmother. This moment of connection emphasized the personal nature of his music and encouraged a deeper engagement with the audience.

Throughout the concert, Boone engaged with the audience using call-and-response techniques reminiscent of famous performers like Freddie Mercury, inviting fans to sing along and enhancing the communal atmosphere. His performances culminated in an exhilarating climax with “Beautiful Things,” which finished with an impressive flip, leaving attendees breathless with excitement.

Festival Context

The RiverBeat Music Festival, held annually at Tom Lee Park, aims to celebrate music, culture, and community. This year’s festival featured a diverse lineup of artists, and Boone’s late performance resonated strongly with the audience. Before his concert in Memphis, he is also scheduled to perform at high-profile events, including the Coachella Music Festival in April 2025.

As the sun set over the festival grounds, Boone leaped from the stage to interact with his fans, shaking hands and sharing hugs as a testament to his connection with the audience. The concert not only showcased his talents but also left attendees feeling a part of something special, reinforcing Boone’s position as a noteworthy artist in the pop music scene.

Overall, Benson Boone’s performance at the RiverBeat Music Festival exemplified his rapid ascent in the music industry, combining captivating music with lively and engaging showmanship. His impact on the stage was significant, highlighting his ability to connect through both powerful lyrics and dynamic performances.

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Additional Resources

• Commercial Appeal: Benson Boone Concert Review
• MassLive: Johnny Memphis 70th Birthday Celebration
• We Are Memphis: Sunset Symphony Concert Series
• Choose901: South Point Grocery Live Music Series
• Memphis Flyer: Live at the Garden Lineup
• Wikipedia: Concert
• Google Search: Live Music Events Memphis
• Google Scholar: Live Music Memphis
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Concert
• Google News: 2025 Music Festivals