On her first solo stateside tour, Wendy, K-pop soloist and member of Red Velvet, returned to Pasadena Civic Auditorium, where she had performed with her group six years earlier, on November 1. The singer showed off her prowess on stage with powerful vocals, witty humor, and charming fan service.
The show began with a slight technical error, leaving Wendy standing on stage in silent darkness for an extended amount of time before the music finally began. Despite this, the performer carried on like a pro, kicking off the concert with an acapella rendition of “Fireproof,” one that she even admitted she aced. This instance of self-assured confidence carried on through the night, as she acknowledged her performance after each challenging song. “Fireproof” led directly into “Hate²” and “Queen Of The Party,” creating a trio of songs that the singer then described as the energetic opening to the show.
“I wanted to start with some songs that highlighted being alive, so I went energetic for the first section,” she began. “And, my live band being here too will make the show even more remarkable.” Explaining that she put together all aspects of the show, down to even the songs playing while fans were walking into the venue, she said that she split songs up by their feeling and lyrics in order to showcase her different sides. Moving on from this section of youthful energy, she described the next set of songs — “Why Can’t You Love Me?,” “Best Ever,” and “Chapter You” — as showing her lovelier side.
Dressed in a sleek red dress, Wendy sang these three sweet songs with a bright smile. “Chapter You” easily was one of the best performances of the night, just six songs into the show. The vocalist hit each high note in the chorus without breaking a sweat, extending the word “you” with masterful grace. Complementing the heartfelt lyrics and delivery, the stage lights also turned a soft orange-yellow, matching the warm tone of the track. After the performance, the singer also revealed the song to be one of her favorites to perform, something that clearly shone through with her execution. “The lyrics of this song compare a journey you share with someone special to chapters of a story. I feel like I’m writing a new chapter with fans every time I sing it. It’s a beautiful and unforgettable chapter in my life [that we are writing], and it means a lot to me.”
For the next section of the show, the singer indicated that the crowd must get in the mood, as things would take an emotional turn. She then performed “His Car Isn’t Yours,” “Better Judgement,” and “Vermilion,” three slightly melancholic songs in which the emotions in her voice really carried through the meaning of the lyrics. While she sang these songs seated, the singer showed her attention to detail by having the chair moved to different areas of the stage to ensure all fans could get an up-close look and listen.
For the next segment of the show, Wendy returned after a quick break that gave the band time for a solo, this time in a sparkling blue dress. Expressing heartbreak and searching for belonging, she performed a set of sorrowful songs: “Like Water,” “When This Rain Stops,” and “Believe.” In particular, the singer expertly portrayed somberness tinged with hope during “Believe.” She also made sure to show some love to the many songs she contributed to K-drama soundtracks, including “Goodbye,” “What If Love,” and “Two Words.” Though not her own song, her cover of “Because I Love You” carried special meaning as she first performed the song when she was a trainee over a decade ago, and she was now revisiting it to show her growth as a vocalist.
With that, it was time to head into the last few songs of the evening. Wendy chose upbeat tracks, “Wish You Hell” and “Sunkiss,” to finish off the main setlist on a high note. For the encore performance, she returned to sing “Best Friend,” “The Road,” and finally, “EXISTENTIAL CRISIS” to finish the night. The last song about finding your own path and moving through life at your own pace had everyone in the audience on their feet, jumping, cheering, and singing along to the relatable lyrics.
Throughout the show, Wendy got personal with attendees, sharing small anecdotes about her time in LA. She talked about getting boba and being recognized, how much she loved the weather in LA, and even offering fans who see her on the street to boba. She also shared stories about her songs and what they meant to her, made silly requests such as asking fans to hold lighsticks up to their faces so she can see them, and talked so much that she said it was why she became a singer.
Instead of playing a music video or an aesthetic concept video during the time between the main show and encore, Wendy played a voice message for fans instead, sharing her sincere love towards them. “You are why I’ve been able to keep moving forward without stopping,” the recording began. “This concert is more than just a place to sing. I wanted it to carry my gratitude for the time we’ve walked together, and also my promise that I’ll keep walking with you in the future. I hope today’s concert will stay in your heart for a long time, and on difficult days, become a small comfort and a warm encouragement. Our story won’t end even after this concert is over. I’ll always be by your side through my songs and my voice. I’ll keep working hard to meet you again with a brighter presence and good songs that go even deeper. Thank you so much for creating this very first concert together with me. You are the most precious gift in my life and the biggest reason I can continue to sing.”
Even after that, she shared a heartfelt letter she wrote to fans earlier in the day after soundcheck. While the voice recording was played at every stop, this letter was personalized for the show and summed up her emotions from being in LA and seeing her fans there for the first time in so many years. “LA holds such a special place in my heart. I’ve been fortunate enough to come here a few times for performances, and each visit has left me with beautiful memories. There’s something about the city that feels so warm and so welcoming, and for someone like me that can’t handle the cold, this weather is simply heaven,” she began. “When I’m performing, time just melts away. And yes, I love being on stage and singing my heart out, but what truly makes every moment feel precious is you. I can feel your hearts connecting with mine, breathing with me, sharing this moment together, and that connection, that’s what makes time fly. Having my first solo concert was more than just a dream, it was everything I hoped for. And now to be here on this tour, standing in front of all of you, sharing my music and my heart with you, it’s a happiness I never imagined I could feel. Tonight, a chapter has been written in my life that I will carry with me forever,” she carried on, referencing the song “Chapter You” once again. “I hope it also created a chapter in your story and a beautiful memory that you will hold close. Thank you for being here, for believing in me, and for sharing this journey with me.”
Wendy wrapped up the beautiful show, highlighting the beauty of living, with an outpouring of genuine love for her fans. Her concert was a wonderful summary of her artistry and talent, her authenticity, and all the emotions and feelings that come with being human.
