Jason Wade Brings The Songs Of Lifehouse to Life At The House Of Blues Chicago

Jason Wade’s solo concert at the House of Blues in Chicago was an intimate affair that highlighted the essence of his musical journey. Known as the frontman of Lifehouse, Wade's career spans over two decades, and this solo tour gave fans a chance to experience his artistry up close and personal. The anticipation was palpable as the crowd gathered, eager to witness a stripped-down performance that promised to be both raw and genuine.

Photos By: Aaron R Shriver Photography

The House of Blues in Chicago is a venue that holds a special place in the hearts of music lovers. Known for its intimate yet vibrant atmosphere, it has hosted countless legendary performances over the years. As you walk in, you're immediately struck by the venue's unique blend of eclectic decor and history, creating a warm and inviting space that feels almost like a second home for concertgoers.  The room is adorned with folk art and rich colors that reflect its dedication to celebrating diverse musical traditions. This iconic setting provided the perfect backdrop for Jason Wade’s solo performance, enhancing the evening's sense of nostalgia and camaraderie. The House of Blues’ acoustics, known for their clarity and richness, allowed Wade’s voice and guitar to resonate beautifully, making every note feel personal and every story told hit close to home.

As the lights dimmed, an air of anticipation swept through the House of Blues. The cheers grew louder, culminating in a unified roar as Jason Wade stepped onto the stage alongside Steve Stout. From the first strum of "Somewhere In Between," it was clear that the evening was set to be special. Wade's presence filled the room with warmth and sincerity, immediately creating a connection with the audience.

Wade's charisma shone brightly between songs as he shared personal stories and bantered with the crowd, even calling some out by name. He recalled co-founding Lifehouse at the age of 15 and shared humorous anecdotes, including a comical Airbnb horror story that had everyone laughing. The night felt like a gathering of old friends, with Wade's conversational tone making the audience feel like a part of his journey. Wade played "Only One," a track that had everyone singing along. He shared humorous banter, like discussing if their music played in the local grocery store Jewel. These stories added a personal touch, making the night feel uniquely intimate.

As the show progressed, Wade's interactions with the crowd became a highlight. During "Halfway Gone," he announced they'd be diving into tracks from Lifehouse’s debut album, "No Name Face," delighting long-time fans. Songs like "Sick Cycle Carousel" and "Quasimodo" were met with enthusiastic responses. Adding to the night's richness, Wade and Stout surprised the audience with a stirring rendition of Joni James' "You Belong To Me." The room was captivated, hanging on every note as Wade's voice carried the song's timeless sentiment.

The emotional core of the evening was found in Jason Wade's masterful medleys. One of the night’s most touching moments was a medley that included "From Where You Are," "Take Me Away," and "Broken." The entire room seemed to hold its breath as fans softly sang along, creating an intimate and almost sacred atmosphere. This wasn't just a performance; it was a communal experience that touched the soul and left everyone with goosebumps. Wade's query, "You guys felt that, right?" perfectly captured the collective emotional experience. His performance was more than just a series of songs; it was a heartfelt storytelling session. Each track, whether a Lifehouse classic or a newer solo piece, was delivered with an authenticity that resonated deeply. Fans sang along passionately, creating moments where the line between performer and audience blurred, uniting everyone in a shared experience.

A standout moment was when Wade performed "Learn You Inside Out," a song he wrote for his wife. His heartfelt delivery was touching, and the connection deepened when a couple in the audience shared that Wade’s 2024 solo release "All Of My Life," was their wedding song just 6 months prior.  Another standout was the seamless blend of "Storm" into Bob Marley's "Three Little Birds," and then into "Between The Raindrops." This medley showcased Wade's versatility and deep appreciation for his musical influences. Songs like "Breathing" and "Whatever It Takes" stirred deep emotions, as Wade’s connection to the lyrics was visible. The evening’s highlight was undoubtedly the crowd's harmonized singing during "Falling In," creating a moment of collective joy and unity that encapsulated the essence of the performance.

As the final notes of "Everything" lingered in the air, the crowd’s applause and cheers begged for more. After a brief pause, Jason Wade returned to the stage, now donning an old school Michael Jordan jersey, much to the delight of the Chicago audience. This thoughtful nod to the city’s basketball legend was a heartwarming gesture that resonated deeply with fans. Wade launched into "You and Me," a song that has become a timeless anthem for many. The crowd sang along passionately, their voices merging into a harmonious echo that filled the venue.

Click the image to view the full Jason Wade photo gallery

To wrap up the night, Wade delivered an electrifying performance of "Hanging By A Moment," a song that catapulted Lifehouse to fame. The audience erupted in cheers; their excitement palpable as they relived the magic of this iconic track. It was a fitting end to an unforgettable evening, leaving everyone with a sense of nostalgia and a renewed appreciation for Jason Wade’s incredible talent. As the final notes echoed through the House of Blues, it was clear that this concert would be remembered by all who attended.

For More On Jason Wade Follow Here!

Jason Wade Set List:

Somewhere in Between (Lifehouse song)

Only One / Easier To Be / Empty Space (Lifehouse song)

Halfway Gone (Lifehouse song)

Sick Cycle Carousel (Lifehouse song)

You Belong to Me (Joni James cover)

From Where You Are / Take Me Away / Broken (Lifehouse song)

Quasimodo (Lifehouse song)

Learn You Inside Out (Lifehouse song)

All Of My Life (Jason Wade Song 2024)

Falling In (Lifehouse song)

Storm / Three Little Birds / Between the Raindrops (Lifehouse song)

Breathing / Whatever It Takes (Lifehouse song)

Come Back Down / All In All / Stanley Climbfall / Spin (Lifehouse song)

Everything (Lifehouse song)

Encore:

You And Me (Lifehouse song)

Hanging by a Moment (Lifehouse song)