Live Review: Tyler Hubbard in Melbourne 2024
6th of October 2024 at the Forum in Melbourne, Australia
Review by Jeana Thomas
Photography by Jeana Thomas Photography
The Forum in Melbourne buzzed with anticipation and excitement as multi-platinum-selling artist Tyler Hubbard kicked off his ‘Strong’ World Tour. Having first gained fame as part of the chart-topping duo Florida Georgia Line, Hubbard has successfully carved out a solo career that showcases his versatility and passion for country music. The Melbourne stop on his tour was nothing short of exhilarating. The moment he took the stage, the energy in the room shifted, a palpable buzz of anticipation mingling with the scent of excitement that filled the air, the crowd roared as he came out on stage.
Hubbard kicked off the night with “Park” instantly connecting with the audience. His voice, rich and resonant, soared over the crowd, drawing everyone into his world. The way he engaged with the audience was remarkable—he wasn’t just singing; he was sharing stories, weaving in anecdotes about his journey, his struggles, and the triumphs that led him here. It felt like a conversation between old friends.
Dressed in a casual yet stylish outfit, he radiated charisma and confidence. Midway through his set he sang “Strong,” which is an empowering anthem that celebrates resilience and the strength found in overcoming life’s challenges, emphasising the importance of determination and perseverance in the face of adversity.
Hubbard’s ability to engage with his fans is one of his strongest attributes. He has a way of making each person in the audience feel seen and valued. Between songs, he shared personal stories that added depth to his performance. Whether recounting his journey from a small-town boy to a multi-platinum artist or expressing gratitude for the support of his Australian fans, Hubbard’s authenticity shone through
The show was electric, with the audience completely captivated by his infectious energy. As he launched into his hit songs, the crowd erupted, harmonising with every lyric and jumping to the beat in unison. The joy was obvious as fans belted out their favourite lines, creating a vibrant sea of voices that echoed through the venue. Tyler, clearly thrilled by the enthusiastic participation, encouraged the crowd to sing even louder, and they responded with an enthusiastic roar. The connection between the artist and his fans was undeniable.
Hubbard’s smooth vocals and infectious energy filled the room, and the impressive lighting and stage design elevated the overall experience. The production was polished yet allowed Hubbard’s talent to take center stage, a testament to his commitment to delivering a memorable performance.
Tyler Hubbard’s band members shine, bringing dynamic energy and exceptional talent to every performance. Each musician added their unique flair, from the tight harmonies to the infectious rhythms that elevate the live experience. Their chemistry on stage is obvious, creating a vibrant atmosphere that complements Tyler’s charisma and engaging presence. Whether it’s the soaring guitar solos or the driving beat of the drums, the band’s skillful contributions enhance the music, making every component memorable.
The night concluded with three explosive encore songs featuring “Tough,” which explore themes of resilience and strength in the face of adversity, reflecting on the challenges and hardships people face, emphasising the importance of perseverance and the ability to keep going despite difficult circumstances. Also, “Wish You Would” which captures the bittersweet feelings of longing and nostalgia after a breakup, expressing a desire for the other person to reach out while grappling with the reality of their absence. The final song, “Dancin’ in the Country” brought an exhilarating energy to Tyler Hubbard’s show, transforming the venue into a lively celebration. The moment the upbeat tune kicked in, the entire audience erupted with joy, singing along with infectious enthusiasm and jumping to the rhythm. The atmosphere was energised, as fans embraced the spirit of the song, dancing, jumping and sharing smiles, creating a sense of unity that filled the air. Tyler thrived off the crowd’s excitement, and the night concluded on a high note, leaving everyone with unforgettable memories of connection and fun.
Tyler Hubbard’s ‘Strong’ World Tour in Melbourne was a resounding success. His seamless blend of high-energy performances, heartfelt storytelling, and genuine connection with fans created an unforgettable night. As he continues to forge his path as a solo artist, it’s evident that Hubbard is not just riding the wave of his past successes, but is committed to pushing boundaries and exploring new horizons in his music. For anyone who has followed his journey, this concert was a reminder of why Tyler Hubbard is a force to be reckoned with in the world of country music, and why his star will continue to shine bright for years to come. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to his music, catching Tyler Hubbard live is an experience you won’t want to miss.
Sheldon Ang Media sat with Tyler Hubbard for an interview on the Strong World Tour and his affection for Australia.
Support Act – Wade Foster
Wade Forster is an emerging singer-songwriter known for his heartfelt lyrics and captivating melodies. Hailing from Australia, he draws inspiration from a diverse range of musical influences, blending elements of country, folk, and pop to create a sound uniquely his own. With a background in storytelling, Wade often infuses his music with personal anecdotes, making each song resonate with authenticity and emotion. In January 2024, Forster became the 44th winner of Toyota Star Maker, Australia’s most prestigious country music competition. As he continues to gain recognition for his engaging live performances and relatable song-writing, Wade is quickly establishing himself as a promising talent in the country music scene.
Wade’s recent performance at The Forum was a captivating blend of music, humour, and heartfelt storytelling. From the moment he took the stage, it was clear that Forster had a unique ability to connect with his audience, effortlessly creating an atmosphere of warmth, appreciation and sincerity.
The evening began with an inviting introduction, as Wade launched into his first song, showcasing his impressive vocal range and rich, emotive sound. His music is deeply rooted in personal experiences, and each song resonated with authenticity, drawing listeners into his world. But it was the moments between songs that truly set his performance apart. Wade’s storytelling prowess is exceptional; he has a natural knack for weaving humour into his narratives, making the audience feel like they were part of his life’s journey.
As he recounted amusing anecdotes from his upbringing, there wasn’t a dry eye in the house—from laughter. He shared tales of awkward encounters, relatable mishaps, and the absurdities of everyday life, all delivered with a charming self-deprecation that endeared him to the crowd. His ability to find humour in the mundane made everyone feel connected, as if they were sharing their own stories of similar experiences. The laughter that erupted from the audience created a sense of unity, making it clear that Wade’s stories were not just his own but resonated with many who could relate to his experiences.
Musically, Wade displayed a remarkable versatility, effortlessly shifting between genres while maintaining his distinctive style. Between his captivating music and hilarious storytelling, there was never a dull moment.
Wade’s charisma shone brightly, and it was evident that he genuinely enjoyed performing. His connection with the crowd felt personal; he frequently made eye contact, ensuring that each person felt included in the experience. This engaging presence amplified the joy of the evening and left everyone feeling uplifted.
As the night progressed, Wade Forster’s performance became a celebration of life’s quirks and the beauty of human connection, both through laughter and music. His ability to share his journey in such a humorous and relatable way created a memorable experience that resonated deeply with everyone in attendance. By the end, it was clear that Wade is not only a talented musician but also a gifted storyteller, capable of turning any performance into a heartfelt gathering of friends sharing in the joy of life.
I found Wade Forster’s performance at The Forum a delightful blend of humour and music, leaving the audience entertained and inspired.
Tyler Hubbard is touring across Australia. Tickets are available from TEG Live
Sheldon Ang Media would like to thank TEG Live and Tyler Hubbard for the media accreditation.
About the Writer/Photographer: Originally hailing from Western Australia, Jeana Thomas now thrives in the vibrant city of Melbourne. Amidst the hustle of her role in a prominent teaching hospital, she also navigates the dynamic world of entrepreneurship as the owner of a medical transcription company. Beyond her professional endeavours, Jeana finds solace and joy in the rhythm of music, the allure of travel and the artistry of photography, with a particular passion for wildlife photography. She embraces the spirit of festivals, the excitement of sports, and theatre, the laughter-inducing antics of comedy, and the electrifying atmosphere of live music performances. She cherishes each experience as a chance to immerse herself fully in life’s rich tapestry.
About Sheldon Ang Media: Perth-based Sheldon Ang Media (est. May 2022) has been accredited to more than 100 of the hottest acts including Taylor Swift (ERAS Tour in Sydney), Coldplay (Perth), KISS, Iron Maiden, RHCP, P!NK and The Kid LAROI with reviews shared by the likes of Belinda Carlisle, UB40, Delta Goodrem, The Wiggles and Toni Childs on social media. The founder has interviewed rockers Suzi Quatro, Ace Frehley (KISS), John Steel (The Animals), Frank Ferrer (Guns N Roses), Phil X (Bon Jovi), Andrew Farris (INXS) and of course Tyler Hubbard plus over 60 artists. SAM is also a contributor on Triple M Radio.
