Who would have guessed Irish singer-songwriter Hozier would emerge as one of the breakout artists of 2024. In April, the singer earned his first No. 1 hit on the Billboard Hot 100 with the single “Too Sweet,” from his latest EP Unheard. The last time an Irish act topped the chart was in 1990 with Sinead O’Connor’s version of Prince’s Nothing Compares 2 U.” As his popularity continues to grow, it's no surprise he sold out three nights (Sept. 17, 18 and 20) at the Kia Forum in Inglewood, CA.
On Sept. 17, Hozier was joined by Grammy Award-winning Americana and roots singer Allison Russell. Armed with powerhouse vocals and empowering lyrics, Russell was a big hit with the crowd. Russell's music is authentic and engaging. She's not afraid to sing about tough subjects of politics and social justice issues. Russell was in an extremely good mood that night as she revealed she would make her Broadway debut in Hadestown in the role of Persephone starting on Nov. 12.
Hozier made his appearance to thunderous applause and cheers from the crowd around 9 pm. He started the night with the melancholy tune "De Selby (Part 1)" off his third studio album Unreal Unearth. Then, it quickly transitioned to the upbeat rock funk sequel "De Selby (Part 2)." Hozier's impressive dynamic baritone vocals were the real star of the show. All through the night, he was accompanied by his backing band which helped create a lively and warm atmosphere. The show didn't feature any elaborate stage setup or lighting, the focus was on the music production. Every instrument switch and song performance is perfectly choreographed. The big screens on the stage would focus mainly on Hozier and his band members. Then for specific songs, the music videos would be shown.
Hozier's performed a total of 22 songs on the first night, Sept. 17. The whispery and sultry choruses of "Eat Your Young," and "Francesca" earned some of the biggest cheers of the night. While the bombastic hits "Too Sweet" and "Take Me to Church" had the entire venue singing along.
Throughout the night Hozier would kindly chat with the crowd and read the banners people made for him. He delighted fans when he told a bee fact - something he hobbies in. During the middle of his set, he surprised everyone with Syrian-American musician Bedouine and performed their duet "That You Are." He also brought Allison Russell on stage twice for performances of the songs "Wildflower and Barely" and "Work Song." Hozier also received a surprise that night as fans lit up the venue in Irish flag colors during the song "Would That I." During the encore, Hozier appeared on a small stage towards the back arena for a stripped-down and intimate performance of "Cherry Wine" and "Unknown/Nth." It was nice to see Hozier make the night memorable for all of his fans. After the two songs, he returned to the main stage and closed the night with the gospel powerhouse ballads "Nine Cried Power and "Work Song (with Allison Russell)."
For more on Hozier, visit hozier.com
