Photographs by Matt Klopot.
Like so many of today’s top-selling acts, OneRepublic’s journey to success started with a legendary producer. When Timbaland remixed “Apologize” in 2007, the song became No.1 in various countries, and the release of their debut Dreaming Out Loud exposed the band’s ability to be something more than a one-hit wonder. Since then, OneRepublic continues to produce a string of hit singles (“Secrets”, “Good Life”) which has certified their spot on the mainstream charts. With the successful release of their third studio album, Native, OneRepublic creates a high-energy show just in time to kick off the summer concert season.
Behind a white screen, giant silhouettes of OneRepublic were seen as they played “Light It Up”. Finally, the curtain fell to unveil the night’s headliner, wowing everyone in attendance. Their U2-esque opening was followed by Waking Up favorites “Secrets” and “All The Right Moves” which had the audience echoing every lyric. It was only 10 minutes into the set, and Ryan Tedder already called it his favorite Sunday of 2014. The night was all about the fans. Tedder kept the crowd engaged and interactive throughout the show that it felt natural and not clichéd. Even though he’s the frontman, Tedder never once outshine his fellow bandmates. They were all sharing this phenomenon together.
As OneRepublic continues to serenade the audience with their ever-growing catalog of songs, they consummated their live act with a few covers. Whether it was Tedder singing a beautiful rendition of “What a Wonderful World“, or the band playing a mash up of “Good Life”/ “Midnight City”, OneRepublic displayed the talent and tunes that proves why they’re at the top of the charts.
As the 90-minute set ends, OneRepublic took the crowd to church with its soul-inspired handclaping and foot thumping for “Counting Stars” and “Love Runs Out”. And yes, we were blessed. Tedder thanks Toronto for making this show one of the best. They promised to return, with new music and maybe an even more attractive look. They closed with “I Lose Myself” where gush of white confetti floats beautifully into the crowd.
