Over the last few years, you may have heard the name Todrick Hall creep up into conversation. If you haven't, you're missing out. Todrick Hall is a musical genius that many of you may know from his slew of creative and comedic YouTube videos. Some of you may have seen his show on MTV. And for you OG Toddlers, you might remember when he was a contestant on season 9 of American Idol.
Hall is quickly becoming a household name and with the success of his most recent visual album and tour, the light of this star won't soon fizzle.
The last stop of the "Straight Outta Oz" tour was Philadelphia. Toddy and friends came to the Keswick Theater and brought the house down with such amazing performances. He is famous for hiring extremely talented singers and dancers and the hard work they all put into this show really shined through.
If you haven't had a chance to listen to "Straight Outta Oz," or watch the 57 minute YouTube video, you are doing yourself a disservice. Hall is an icon to many and an advocate for the underdog.
"Straight Outta Oz" shows his story of growing up in a small Texas town and finding himself as a member of the LGBT community, following his dreams, his heart and becoming the amazing performer he is today. He also touches on the injustices and social biases we are currently experiencing as a nation. One song in particular, that never fails to bring me to tears, is the track Water Guns, sung in the visual album with fellow American Idol alum Jordin Sparks.
The song proudly states "these ain't water guns and please save all our sons," in a plea to end the sensless injustice of gun violence. The video shows a tribute to victims Trayvon Martin, Christina Grimmie and more. The cast wears all black and stands together in a strong statement that this violence will no longer be tolerated, and it was just as powerful to watch live as it was to watch on my TV screen.
The live show stars Toddy regulars like fan-favorites Chester and Jesse. The special thing about working for Todrick Hall, that was definitely portrayed at the show, is how real all of the friendships are and how much he is appreciated and respected by everyone in his crew. And not only is he an inspiration to the many fans he's acquired on his journey, but also to those he surrounds himself with.
The end of the show came with a touching tribute to him from all of his cast and crew, as well as him showing how much he appreciates all of them. I've never been to a live show where the artist points out each member of their crew one by one and thanks them. It was truly amazing to see the love and respect between all of them. And Todrick is so humble and sweet to his fans; as he danced through the aisles he stopped to hug a few lucky fans, and took the time after the show to take pictures with them.
I've had the pleasure of seeing Todrick Hall live twice now, and believe me when I say that he is someone you need to see perform in your lifetime. I can count one hand the number of times I've watched an artist and been brought to tears. It's a short list because these artists are rare finds, but Todrick Hall is definitely one of them.
Immerse yourself in the wonderful world of Todrick, you won't regret it.
