When I was in high school back in the late 90s (don’t go computing my age now!), I sort of went through an emo phase. I felt like an Invisible woMan next to my best friend, whom a lot of guys liked. The Hardest Thing for me was to be Caught in the Middle when a guy I had a crush on started calling me to ask how he could court her! Back then, I always wondered whether I would ever bloom Like a Rose and find my One Love.

As cheesy as it may sound, one of the things that got me through this phase was listening to the songs of my favorite boybands. I Do believe they gave me hope that one day, I would Breathe Easy and be Livin’ the Dream.

Fast forward to 2012—when I found out that Jeff of 98 Degrees, A1, and Blue were coming to town, I jumped at the chance to watch their show. Mimi already told you about the press con where we got to see them up close and personal. After that, I couldn’t wait to see them live in concert!

The boys did not disappoint! Jeff opened the show with some of 98 Degrees’ greatest hits, like my personal faves “Invisible Man” and “I Do.” He even sang “Rainbow” with local band South Border!

After that, A1 gave an explosive performance of their new and old songs—including some surprise covers like Lady GaGa’s “Poker Face”—with the very cute Ben Adams on lead vocals.

Finally, Blue wrapped up the show by singing their best songs—no bells and whistles, just their awesome voices and smooth dance moves.

concert photos by Audrey Tiu

The best part? I watched the show with my One Love (my boyfriend of six years!). Emo High School Me probably never imagined she would ever watch a boyband concert with a guy, but that’s why it’s so sweet when life throws these unexpected surprises.

Which of today’s bands give you hope or make you happy? Share your stories with me here or at angel@candymag.com! <3

Love,
Angel