This past summer, I had the incredible opportunity to watch an unforgettable lineup at Summerfest: AJR, Carly Rae Jepsen, and mxmtoon. From the moment I set foot in the festival grounds, the atmosphere was charged with excitement, and I knew I was in for a night filled with phenomenal performances and memorable moments.
The evening opened with mxmtoon’s delightful presence, captivating the audience with her heartfelt lyrics and charming stage demeanor. As I captured her performance through my lens, I noticed how effortlessly she connected with her fans. Songs like “prom dress” resonated deeply, making it clear that her music struck a chord with everyone present. Her authenticity and warmth set a wonderful tone for the night ahead.

Next up was the pop sensation Carly Rae Jepsen, who brought an infectious energy to the stage that had the crowd dancing and singing along from the very first note. Carly Rae’s performance was a celebration of her most beloved hits, including “Call Me Maybe” and “Cut to the Feeling.” Watching her interact with the audience was a joy; she encouraged everyone to join in, creating an electric atmosphere. I loved capturing the smiles and excitement of fans as they enjoyed her vibrant set.
But the true highlight of the night was AJR, who absolutely blew me away with their mind-blowing performance on “The Maybe Man” tour. They opened the show in spectacular fashion, featuring a visually stunning display of a bunch of Jacks on stage, instantly capturing the audience’s attention. The energy in the venue was palpable as the brothers –Adam, Jack and Ryan Met – took the stage with an enthusiasm that was contagious.
What made AJR’s performance truly special was their incredible crowd interaction. They really knew how to engage with their fans, and at one point, they performed “Steve’s Going to London” right in the section next to me. The excitement was overwhelming as the band moved through the crowd, and I felt the joy radiating from those around me. It was a moment that made me appreciate the power of live music to bring people together.
Throughout the show, Jack Met showcased his impressive drumming skills, while the brothers harmonized beautifully. Their performance was filled with playful moments, including the use of finger puppets that added a whimsical touch to the show. It felt like I was watching a delightful movie come to life – a story filled with laughter, heart and a celebration of life.
Amidst the fun and laughter, AJR also took a moment to share personal stories about their journey in the music industry. They spoke candidly about their father’s passing and how it shaped their music and their lives. This vulnerability resonated deeply with the audience, creating a powerful connection that made the experience even more meaningful. It was a beautiful reminder of the strength found in sharing our stories.
As the show drew to a close, Jack Met delivered a heartfelt speech that left an indelible mark on everyone in attendance. He shared, “We are going to be on the stage for the rest of our life, walking on treadmills making shadows come to life, singing our weird songs. Because finally after 18 years, we found a group of people that see the world the same way we do. Because life is really, really short. It’s way too short, to not be the biggest version of yourself.”
His words were a powerful reminder to embrace life, be true to ourselves and cherish the connections we make along the way.
As the final notes of their performance echoed through the venue, I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude for the experience I had just witnessed. AJR, Carly Rae Jepsen and mxmtoon each brought their unique magic to the stage, creating a night filled with joy, connection, and unforgettable memories.
In conclusion, experiencing AJR’s performance at Summerfest was truly a night to remember. Their ability to connect with the audience, share personal stories, and create an atmosphere of fun and celebration made it an extraordinary experience. Here’s to the power of music and the joy it brings –may we continue to celebrate and cherish these moments for years to come.