Billie’s ‘Hit Me Hard And Soft’ Tour: Talk About Positive Messaging!

Billie Eilish took the stage again in late September for a world tour of her chart-topping album, Hit Me Hard And Soft. Canada had the privilege of hosting the tour’s opening performance, and Quebec was selected as the first stop on the road.

Two nights later, she was in the Six (do people still say that?); well, she was in Toronto, where she performed for two consecutive nights. How do I say this next thing without overly showing my excitement? But I was there for Night 2!!!!

After her show in Quebec, I came across several videos showcasing how Billie opened her set, and I had never seen anything quite as impressive. It was literally all everyone talked about and I couldn’t wait to experience it too. And the steal? She was opening to Chihiro, the first song I fell in love with when I first listened to the album.

Whenever I get asked, “So how was it?” my response has always been and will keep being; “You just had to be there!” I could go on and on about the stage epic effects, the screen visuals, the seamless song transitions, and even the fact that I’ve replayed the videos I recorded on my phone countless times. It’s just hard to believe that night actually happened!

However, “a great time” wasn’t the only takeaway from Billie’s tour; that I can tell you! I previously wrote about how influential certain voices can be in our society. We live in a time when artists significantly influence social change and public opinion, and we are fortunate to live in the same time as Billie Eilish. Billie has long been known to utilize her massive platform to advocate for important social and environmental issues. And her voice was not heard only on social media, she brought it along with her on tour. Given that it was a tour, it was incredible to witness her use her voice to address relevant issues before moving the crowd to tears with her performance of ‘Wildflower.’

Here are a few examples:

Sustainability

Sustainability has become a central topic in today’s conversation across the globe and continues to gain significant attention across industries, governments and numerous communities. As I found my seat and watched the arena slowly fill up, many things were noticeable – the general admission ticket holders searching for the perfect spot around the centrally mounted stage, the energy and the short, impactful sustainability video playing on the giant screens. The video which features an animated version of Billie walking through a field, seemingly identical to the animated Billie from her ‘my future’ music video released four years ago, focuses on the urgent need for sustainability.

It highlights the environmental crisis, from climate change to air and water pollution and urges her audience to take action and make more eco-conscious choices, such as reducing waste and supporting sustainable practices. Talk is cheap, they say, but not for Billie. In the video, she showcases several ways she’s actively working to reduce her carbon footprint while on tour, including cutting down on the number of trucks and buses used and implementing sustainable practices in producing merch and vinyl, all made from 100% recycled materials.

Mental health

Addressing mental health openly and honestly can help break the stigmas around the topic and provide the support needed for those who may be struggling. Throughout the show, Billie would frequently take breaks between her sets to engage in conversations with her fans, often discussing the power of vulnerability and the importance of community. Right before she performed Skinny, she invited her two best friends who provided backing vocals during the performance on stage. She shared a personal story about the recording of Ocean Eyes, the song that catapulted her to fame, explaining that when she recorded the track, she was in a dark place mentally, and having her two friends by her side during that time provided support that made all the difference. Billie creates a safe space where fans feel seen and supported by sharing these personal stories. Someone may have come in to hear her perform Birds of a Feather, but they would leave with a powerful reminder that they, too, matter, and that’s a beautiful thing. Throughout the show, she repeatedly tells her fans, “I love you all.”

To some, these words may seem simple, but for others, they may be exactly what they needed to hear.

Why it matters

In essence, Billie Eilish demonstrates a remarkable commitment not only to her artistry but also to making a meaningful impact on the world. Leveraging a massive platform to drive change and raise awareness on the world’s many critical issues worth discussing today is such a power move. She exemplifies that true influence lies in using one’s platform to deliver positive messaging and inspire action for the greater good. For the thousands of fans attending the tour worldwide, I have no doubt they leave with a renewed sense of what truly matters.