The minute the house lights fell prior to Ellie Goulding’s set at the Wiltern, screams erupted from every inch of the venue as the sold-out crowd prepared to party to the Brit songstress. Band members appeared on stage and got the show started, playing the intro to “Under the Sheets.” The crowd rippled with excitement and anticipation as the music moved around them, and they waited for Goulding to walk on stage. When she finally appeared, the audience roared with appreciation, and it was on.
All photos by: Ellen Lin
There was not a person within the hall that wasn’t having a good time. Those seated in the balcony spent most of the show on their feet, and the entire audience sang along. The crowd members weren’t the only ones moving, though; both the staff and the band were dancing with their hands in the air.
Goulding’s support was amazing. Her band brought a new dimension to her music that was perfect for a live show and kept the energy up the entire set. Their obvious love for Goulding and the music was infectious and one of the most enjoyable elements of the show.
As for Goulding, you haven’t heard her sing until you’ve heard her live. She has one of the most unique voices in the market, raspy but strong and sweet. Her set showed off a vocal prowess that held no indication that she had been touring for weeks. Fresh from Lollapalooza, Goulding gave a powerful performance. Vocally stunning, she also drew cheers for her sultry dance moves, guitar playing, and thundering away on a mini drum kit.
“I can’t get over how many people are in this room with me. You’re really here to see me,” an incredulous Goulding said during her show. Yes, we’re really all here to see you, and we’re loving it.
Goulding closed her set with powerful performances of “Salt Skin,” “Lights,” and “Animal,” bringing together some of her most popular tunes for an amazing finish. But the crowd wasn’t finished, and after a minute of screams and chants of “Ellie, Ellie,” Goulding and crew came back on stage.
The encore of “You Know This is Your Biggest Mistake” and “Starry Eyed” was the perfect ending to the show, and the entire performance was part of an incredible ending to the “Lights” tour. Goulding and company went on to perform at San Francisco’s Outside Lands this weekend before heading home, and I think I can speak for all attendees when I say we hope it won’t be long before she returns to LA!
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