OneRepublic took over The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion on August 28 in the best way possible. Even on a hot, humid summer night in Houston, the iconic amphitheater was packed with people of all ages. It’s been five years since the Colorado band toured, and in one evening they proved why they are considered one of the greatest pop rock bands of all time. The band has held strong since their formation in 2002 and have only seen growing success since their debut album, Dreaming Out Loud, in 2007. Not only did they showoff their extensive catalog, lead vocalist and multi-instrumentalist Ryan Tedder, confirmed for any doubters out there, why he is one of the best songwriters and producers in the industry. Regardless if you like them or not, Ryan Tedder and OneRepublic have mastered the formula to put out hit after hit. During the evening, there was even a special and never-done-before 15-minute mini-set where they covered several number 1 songs Ryan Tedder wrote for other major artists. Talk about major flex. They covered Beyonce’s “Halo,” Leona Lewis’ “Bleeding Love,” Adele’s “Rumour Has It,” Maroon 5’s “Love Somebody,” Jonas Brothers’ “Sucker” and many more. A particular highlight for me, and I’m sure everyone else, was when the band played, “I Ain’t Worried” from the soundtrack of the recent Top Gun: Maverick film. Tom Cruise introduces the song with a pre-recorded message and scenes from the movie are played in the background. And of course all the other classics are performed from “Apologize” to “Counting Stars” to “If I Lose Myself.” Thank you Ryan Tedder. Thank you OneRepublic for continuing to write songs, actually, life anthems, that have held a special place for me in my teenage years and still hold true today. Songs that give me hope and courage and the capacity to look forward with joy in my adult years.
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