The tour, which was truly nothing short of mind-blowing, saw the rapper curate a setlist that was purely j-Hope. Showing his multiple personas, it showcased his vision from start to finish. Starting with the singles that kickstarted chapter two and his path to his solo exploration. Arson featured him in a stylish outfit draped in a strikingly chic red fur coat and leather trousers. Of course it wouldn't be Jay without a pair of signature sunglasses to finish off the intimidating but effortlessly cool look.
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| Photo Courtesy of BIGHIT MUSIC |
His 2022 album Jack in the Box feels like a distant memory, but it spurred hits like More and the important Equal Sign. The latter is relevant more than ever with its poignant lyric, “Hate will paralyse your mind; gotta see the other side; it costs you nothing to be kind.” It is here that j-Hope would engage directly with ARMYs in the front row in heartfelt interactions ranging from singing, hugging and connecting. All of which he would post on his Instagram grid after every show. His music highlights how it knows no boundaries, as he connected with a diverse crowd of parents and people of all ages and backgrounds.
Hot off his new releases Sweet Dreams and the sultry Mona Lisa, which he debuted during his tour. Always full of surprises, he brought another one to the stage in LA. A special guest appeared onstage, none other than Miguel. Together they created a dreamy atmosphere onstage, basking in the glow of ARMY bombs, followed by a grand sing-along – word-for-word participation from the fans.
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| Photo Courtesy of BIGHIT MUSIC |
Wrapping up with Neuron, a sentimental track as a nod to his beginnings with the Neuron dance crew days in Gwangju. With a reimagined New Jack Swing arrangement, the performance was joined by an explosion of confetti and fireworks. Throwback visuals included past Neuron dance rehearsals and scenes from BTS's debut days. The emotional lyrics lit up on the screen, tugging at the heartstrings of everyone watching. Always embracing his journey, from start to finish, the show was a testament to j-Hope as one of the most celebrated performers.
As always with j-hope, there is a strong message embedded in relatable concepts that we can all truly rely on. The setlist and tour stem from the ideology of hope, that took shape in various forms on stage. Reflected in the concert sections are Ambition, Dream, Expectation, Fantasy, and Wish, with each reflecting the narrative he has woven throughout his solo career. As his first solo world tour since debuting 12 years ago, ‘HOPE ON THE STAGE’ is a deeply personal project for j-Hope. Who was actively involved in the overall planning, composition, and direction of the concert, ensuring his creative vision was embedded throughout.
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| Photo Courtesy of BIGHIT MUSIC |
Without a doubt the stage was a testament to what a multifaceted artist j-hope is, creating a tour that is the perfect way to reunite with fans since his military discharge. An immersive experience, with a stage production that was nothing short of extraordinary to watch. Hooking the audience from the moment he burst out onstage to finish with the opening creating a box. The lifts for the main stage shifted in their height and arrangement in real time, synchronising with his music and movements. At times, they formed a box, and at others, they morphed into staircases that elevated him.
Also, let's not forget the power anthem that is Mic Drop, which has now been reinvigorated as a battle cry from both fans and the rapper. Each show has seen fans get progressively louder during the line “Mianhae Eomma” , an electric and emotionally charged lyric for a number of reasons.
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| Photo Courtesy of BIGHIT MUSIC |
The tour will now go on to Singapore, Jakarta , Bangkok , and Osaka. During the show, j-Hope is seen holding a mysterious red frosted box, leading fans to speculate whether it might unveil a special announcement for the final stop. Perhaps even an encore reveal similar to that of SUGA’s D-Day tour back in August of 2023. Only time will tell, and as the wait continues, be sure to stream the latest releases Sweet Dreams and Mona Lisa on all streaming platforms.
Also, don't miss j-Hope as he headlines Berlin's Lollapalooza this July, of which some tickets remain here.
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