In terms of people that helped shape my childhood, Drake Bell is high on the list, seeing him in 2019 was absolutely surreal.

When I heard that Drake Bell was coming to Austin, I instantly turned back into the kid that was obsessed with The Amanda Show and Drake and Josh, I knew that I had to be at that concert purely out of nostalgia and curiosity about what his new music is like.

I was pleasantly surprised when I arrived at the venue to see that it was a very simple show, no opener, just an hour with Drake Bell and his guitar. Immediately I met several of his biggest fans, some had driven from states away to be at this special show, others had been close to tears all day with excitement about meeting their favorite artist. One fan in particular had driven from another state to be able to see Drake on her birthday, she was the very first one in line, strumming a guitar and singing Drake Bell’s songs ahead of the meet and greet.

The crowd was an even blend of new fans and those who were excited to relive their childhood for the night. Throughout the show people would shout classic lines from Drake and Josh, and, much to their amusement, Drake would call out right back to them. Fans sang along to each track, while others were, like me, interested in hearing the mixture of new music and old and seeing where the years had taken him.

By far my favorite moment of the evening was when Drake pulled up the fan with the guitar I’d met early and they performed “Makes Me Happy” together, it was one of those moments when you know you’re witnessing someone’s life change. The energy in the entire room changed the second he pulled her up onto the stage, everyone was ecstatic, cheering her on and singing along louder than before.

Although my initial reason for attending the show was to see a beloved childhood icon, I was beyond excited to hear how his new music perfectly matured over the years, he made the transition from young tv star to a true artist seem effortless. I’ll definitely be keeping an ear out for new music from Drake Bell, who, as of this month, gained a true new fan.

- Marissa

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