Since he started writing and privately performing his music in 2005, Andrew John Hozier-Byrne has spent copious amounts of time impassioning crowds with both his beautifully curated lyrics and inspiring messages of humanity. The artist, professionally known as Hozier, started his “Unreal Unearth” tour on June 10. He recently drew Pennsylvanians from all corners of the state to Hershey for a spectacular and sold-out show. Even in a packed crowd of tens of thousands, Hozier’s powerful voice and poetic lyrics made an emotional impact.
Song after song, I stood amongst strangers listening to Hozier and felt a strange wash of intimate community. Complete strangers becoming friends and dancing together during “Someone New.” The entire crowd shouting the lyrics from his 2014 radio hit, “Take Me to Church.” Everyone staring at the musician in awe during his acoustic rendition of “Cherry Wine.” As an audience member, you feel transported to a reality where compassion, love, and empathy are the standard. A time where exhibiting these traits is not a solitary demonstration, but the consistent expectation.
While Hozier’s music already contains social commentary, he uses his concerts as an additional platform to urge the crowd to protest for human rights. During his protest song, “Nina Cried Power,” he educates the crowd of the importance behind supporting a ceasefire in Gaza, rallying behind our transgender “brothers and sisters” and participating in public advocacy. Leaving his performance to be only simply described as deeply human.
As someone who has attended multiple concerts, I cannot recommend seeing Hozier live enough. His concerts are a standout show. The captivating graphics, amazing setlist and inspiring message all left me saying, “I don’t need to see another concert ever again.”
