Queer Euphoria Takes Over Amsterdam as Girl in Red Comes to Town
On the 8th of September girl in red brought the “Doing It Again” tour to AFAS LIVE in Amsterdam. At arrival the fans are in suit and ties all dressed up to see Marie Ulven Ringheim the Norwegian Indie-Popstar. Red accessories shine in the queue in front of the venue; pride flags are being signed and passed around. The atmosphere felt more like a gathering of close friends than a typical concert crowd, with warmth and inclusivity radiating from every corner. It was clear that this was more than just a show. It was an event where people came not only for the music but also for the shared sense of community and acceptance that girl in red has fostered through her art.
The Warm Up
The supporting act Nieve Ella got the crowd singing and screaming, the perfect warm-up for Girl in Red. Having seen Nieve Ella in small venues before, it was stunning to witness her on a big stage like AFAS Live. She and her band, which she introduced as her best friends, look like rock stars and are shredding guitar on stage, singing their hearts out to win the hearts of many new fans. I am surrounded by some day-one fans who know every lyric and happily dance along. There even was a fan project with signs held up saying “Looks like you’ve gone and made it”, appreciating how far the young artist has come in her career. I can already tell you this will be a special night with thoughtful fans.
A Night to Remember
After jamming to the elite playlist full of Chappell Roan, Billie Eilish, and other queer musicians, the lights turn red (literally) and excited screams fill the venue in anticipation for girl in red. Opening the set with “DOING IT AGAIN BABY” gets the crowd going and everybody on the floor and seats was jumping. The tune from the newest record is followed by two absolute classics “bad idea!” and “girls”. Screaming these anthems in unity with everyone else at the venue is healing on a level that is hard to describe. Looking around I see pure queer euphoria and celebrated freedom in this safe space. From this moment onwards the positive tone for the whole show is set and continues to build up.
Crowd Interactions
Going back and forth between older and newer albums, there is a dynamic flow of songs that make up the setlist. In between songs, Marie is wrapping the audience around her finger with her humor. Interacting with fan-made signs and trying on a t-shirt signed by many fans and finally letting the crowd vote for which song to play, make up a lighthearted and engaging atmosphere in the room. The crowd cheers the loudest for “I Call You Mine” so Amsterdam is treated to an extra song on the setlist.
Girl in red’s infectious energy radiates through the crowd, lifting everyone to their feet, jumping and dancing in sync with her every move. For two hours, the worries of the world melt away as I’m completely immersed in the joy and freedom of the moment. To close off this very special night Marie is opening the “wall of death” for her song “i wanna be your girlfriend”. The pit is opening a straight line from the barricade all the way to the back and girl in red gets into the empty space continuing the song, until everyone runs and jumps into each other for the last chorus. It speaks for trust in her fans and sums up the respect and thoughtfulness I have witnessed all night.
Nothing But Love
This concert easily ranks among the top-tier experiences I’ve had. The range of emotions I felt, from exhilaration to gratitude, was overwhelming, but above all, I’m thankful for artists like girl in red who create such meaningful spaces. Spaces where queer communities can express themselves freely, connect with one another, and find solace in music. The sense of unity in the crowd was visible, with new friendships forming all around me, sparked by a shared love for girl in red’s music. During the show, we were more than just an audience; we were a community.