If there’s one word to describe the Black Eyed Peas concert that took place last Wednesday (8/7) at The Anthem, it’s nostalgia. This is fitting, given the band’s legacy as a 2000s staple and the current resurgence of 2000s imagery and fashion.
The Black Eyed Peas consist of three core members: will.i.am, apl.de.ap, and Taboo. Will.i.am, the group’s frontman and producer, is known for his innovative approach to music, blending hip hop with electronic and pop sounds. Apl.de.ap, originally from the Philippines, brings a multicultural influence to the group’s music, often incorporating elements from his heritage. Taboo, of Mexican and Native
American descent, adds a unique perspective to the band’s dynamic with his energetic performances and deep connection to his roots.
After an electric opening by Flyana Boss, the band performed old hits like “I Gotta Feeling” and “Where is the Love” to an enthusiastic audience that wasn’t shy about singing along. A mixed bag of generations, the crowd was a lively blend of old and young, united by one thing: a love for 2000s pop. And there was certainly no shortage of iconic 2000s bops. At one point, the band showcased music videos of will.i.am’s memorable feature hits like “#thatPOWER” with Justin Bieber and “Scream & Shout” with Britney Spears. These crowd favorites, accompanied by their iconic videos, were captivating to watch and undoubtedly the moments when the most phones were recording.
Of course, we can’t talk about 2000s nostalgia without mentioning Fergie’s absence from the band since her departure in 2017. The group now includes J. Rey Soul, a Filipina singer who rose to fame on The Voice Philippines. While Soul’s vocals were certainly impressive, there was still something missing when the band skipped Fergie’s parts in iconic songs like “Pump It” and “My Humps.” But with nostalgia, there’s always a sense of what’s been left behind. It seemed the band members felt the nostalgia, too. In a heartfelt introduction, they reminisced about their early performances in the District and how far they’ve come since then. They didn’t shy away from performing their early discography, like “Smells Like Funk.” Even though most of the audience didn’t know the lyrics to these older songs, they kept fist-pumping and dancing through it all.
The Black Eyed Peas’ nostalgia extended beyond their band history into a personal level
when they began discussing heritage and how their diverse identities shaped their music. With flags of various countries waving throughout the audience, band member Taboo reminded everyone to love each other, emphasizing that, at the end of the day, the Black Eyed Peas stand for unity and love.
All in all, it was a truly memorable concert. Screaming the lyrics to “I Gotta Feeling,” I felt like I
was 7 again, and I treasure that moment of youth at a time when it feels like growing up is
happening too fast. Unfortunately, the tour has ended, but if you ever get the chance to see the
Black Eyed Peas live, don’t miss it.
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