Phoenix, AZ — On April 12, 2025, the Crescent Ballroom in Phoenix bore witness to the explosive commencement of Dave Blunts’ inaugural tour, Standing For What I Believe In. The venue, known for its intimate setting, was transformed into a cauldron of raw energy and unfiltered emotion as Blunts delivered a performance (largely from his signature purple couch) that was as provocative as it was unforgettable.
A Night of Anticipation and Unconventional Openings
The evening began with an unconventional opening act that left a good amount to be desired. Rather than delivering a standard musical performance, the opener chose to play a selection of tracks while engaging the audience with impromptu antics, including removing his shirt. While the approach was little more than the rapper dancing to a DJ set, it succeeded in energizing the crowd, setting the stage for the main event.
However, following the opener’s departure, a palpable sense of anticipation filled the room as attendees awaited Blunts’ arrival. The delay stretched over 30 minutes, during which the audience’s excitement remained undiminished.
Dave Blunts Takes the Stage: A Fusion of Hits and New Material
When Blunts finally emerged, the atmosphere reached a fever pitch. He launched into a dynamic setlist that seamlessly blended fan favorites with fresh releases. Tracks like “The Cup” and “Crying in the Kitchen” elicited enthusiastic sing-alongs, while new songs such as “First Day Out the Hospital” and “Balcony” showcased his evolving artistry and resonated deeply with the audience.
Throughout the performance, Blunts maintained an unfiltered dialogue with the crowd, punctuating his set with candid remarks and personal anecdotes. He repeatedly voiced his disdain for Solar and Madison, women frequently referenced in his songs, exclaiming, “fuck Solar!” and “fuck Madison!”—statements that were met with loud cheers from the audience, reflecting the communal catharsis that will likely be dominant at subsequent Dave Blunts shows.
A Controversial Collaboration: “WW3” with Kanye West
A notable moment in the concert was the debut of the full version of “WW3,” a collaboration with Kanye West. The track, marked by its intense and provocative content, elicited a more subdued response from the audience. The brazen shock value content as a marked shift from the other content in the concert, resulting in a momentary dip in engagement. He performed the track just before his closing number, “The Cup.”
Engaging the Audience: A Call for Participation
In a particularly controversial segment, Blunts addressed the audience’s participation during “Crying in the Kitchen.” Observing a lack of vocal engagement when he dropped the song’s signature hard R, he restarted the song and encouraged the mostly-white crowd to sing along with fervor. This moment, which he later shared on social media, could become a signature part of his shows.
Signature Touches: The “Purple Drink” and Jesse Jones
Adding to the evening’s unique atmosphere was the availability of a special “purple drink” at the bar—a potent alcoholic concoction that quickly became a talking point among attendees. Additionally, Blunts acknowledged his friend Jesse Jones, who not only graced his album covers but also energized the stage as a hypeman, contributing to the concert’s vibrant energy.
An Unconventional Finale: The Crowdsurf That Wasn’t
As the concert drew to a close with the performance of “The Cup,” anticipation built for a promised crowdsurfing moment. Blunts teased the possibility, urging the audience to express their enthusiasm. Despite the crowd’s fervent response, he ultimately chose to exit the stage without fulfilling the tease, later reposting on Instagram, “He didn’t choose Phoenix,” leaving fans both amused and contemplative.
Reflecting on a Night of Raw Expression
Dave Blunts’ Phoenix performance was a testament to his unorthodox approach to music and live shows. From the unexpected opening act to the candid interactions and bold musical choices, the evening encapsulated the essence of Blunts’ artistry—unfiltered, provocative, and deeply personal. As he continues his tour, audiences can anticipate a similarly immersive and thought-provoking experience that challenges conventions and invites introspection.