On September 30th, 2024, Sammy Rae & the Friends took Pittsburgh by storm as they kicked off their highly anticipated tour of their new album, “Something for Everybody”. The energy in the venue was high, especially as the band easily doubled their crowd size compared to their previous performance at Mr. Smalls almost exactly one year ago. Though it was the first show of the tour, and a touch of nerves was expected, fans were more than willing to forgive any silly mistakes that occurred. Sammy expressed her lifelong love of Pittsburgh due to having family in the area and said she felt comfortable messing up in front of this crowd, because she knew we would be kind to them. From the moment they stepped onto the stage, the band created an atmosphere filled with excitement and anticipation that resonated throughout the night.
The concert opened on a high note with the powerful track “Thieves,” highlighted by dramatic spotlights that set the tone for an unforgettable evening. The small but mighty lighting package effectively elevated the overall experience, adding production value on track with the growing band. The band expertly weaved in a mix of new material while simultaneously paying homage to the music that paved the way for their success. Three back-to-back classics brought the crowd to a high, showcasing the depth and versatility of their repertoire, which fans justifiably went wild for.
One of the standout moments of the night came during a beautiful rendition of “David,” where Sammy shared the touching backstory behind the song, leaving the audience in awe of the connection she fostered with her music. Though they covered “Hold the Line,” which had its moments, I wish that the band had opted for “Denim Jacket” or “Whatever We Feel” instead, as I left the show wishing they had played more of their classics. As the concert came to a close with the emotional “Coming Home Song,” tears were shed, and joy filled the air. It was a night to remember, illustrating why Sammy Rae & the Friends continue to capture hearts wherever they perform. It has been so fun following them from smaller rooms to much larger ones, and I’m excited to see where they play next time they’re in town!
Live from the Pitt 