It’s 7:00 pm on a Tuesday night in Chicago. Nestled between brick buildings, bright lights illuminate The Vic Theater. It’s an older, historic venue; perfect for those smaller, cozier settings. I’m gathered with hundreds of other fans tonight to see singer-songwriter, Jeremy Zucker.
I went into the evening with an open mind. Although I’m not too familiar with his discography—only a couple of songs I’ve heard on the radio—when the lights start strobing and the audience begins excitedly screaming, I know I’m in for a treat.
Who is Jeremy Zucker?
Born in 1996 and raised in New Jersey, Jeremy Zucker grew up surrounded by music. From joining bands to making music in his bedroom, it was clear from early on music would be a part of his path. Jeremy’s debut was the release of his EP Beach Island in 2015.
Three years later, by 2018, Zucker had made a name for himself in the music industry. He’d collaborated with the popular artist blackbear, released three more EPs, and was already embarking on tours and crushing live gigs. (Jeremy mentioned excitedly at the show that one of his first ever live performances was at Chicago’s Schubas Tavern in 2017.)
Now, in 2023, Jeremy Zucker has quite the discography under his belt, with two full albums and ten EPs. He’s amassed over ten million listeners on Spotify and found his niche in the extensive world of indie-pop. He’s currently on his fifth tour, so it’s safe to say Zucker’s popularity is only on the rise.
A Night At The Vic
Jeremy’s lengthy setlist (twenty-three songs!) made for a longer show but was met with energy and excitement from both sides. An enthusiastic audience and a stellar performer, this concert was nothing short of electric.
From the radio hits fans knew and loved, like “all the kids are depressed” and “you were good to me“, to acoustic, stripped down versions of slower songs, each track brought a brand-new energy to the stage. Slow moments of piano were juxtaposed between the upbeat songs, but despite it all, fans screamed and sang along the entire show.
Twelve songs in, the audience shrieked when Jeremy and his band began the opening notes of Phoebe Bridgers’ hit song “Kyoto“. Phoebe’s cover album came on the screen, scribbled over with a messy Jeremy signature. It was the perfect tongue-in-cheek, skeleton covered tribute.
During “Cry with you“, illuminated by phone flashlights and swaying hands, Zucker brought a teary-eyed fan on stage to sing along.
Zucker’s Infectious Energy
Twenty-one songs later, the energy of The Vic was impressively high. To keep these good vibes going, Jeremy ended his set with an equally electric encore.
Fans cheered to the opening chords of “always, i’ll care“. Backed by colorful lights, “supercuts” began and the audience roared.
Jumping up and down, guitar in hand, Jeremy told the audience it was time to “turn the ‘eff up.” And so they did.
Almost two hours later, Zucker left the stage with excited fans still wanting more, so I think it’s pretty safe to say his energy made for an incredible show.
Where to next?
If you’re in search of a concert that’s full of energy, look no further than Jeremy Zucker. Tickets for his tour are still available here, so snag ’em while you can. This tour is one you don’t want to miss.
