Author: Anniyah Fitzhugh
Cover photo credit: 1824 – Universal Music Group
On June 10th, pop singer–songwriter Em Beihold brought her “Tales of a Fated Shapeshifter”
tour to Neumos in Seattle, filling the venue with whimsy and electric energy. Best known for her
2022 TikTok breakout hit “Numb Little Bug,” Beihold has built a reputation for blending pop
melodies with her personal songwriting, and her Seattle show truly showcased why she and her
fanbase continue to grow.
The stage setup featured purple and teal lighting washing over the stage, with the ambience
spilling into the rest of the venue, creating a dreamy atmosphere that matched Beihold’s musical
tone. A keyboard, drum set, guitars, and a violin framed the stage. The audience fully embraced
the vibe, with many arriving in whimsical, cute, and pop–inspired outfits that showcased their
unique, individual styles. Fans of all ages filled the room, creating an energy that felt ecstatic.
Beihold opened the night with “Scared of the Dark,” immediately capturing the crowd’s attention.
Her stage presence felt natural and engaging, whether she was sharing stories, performing
songs, or delivering incredible, clear vocals. “Brutus” resonated strongly with the audience; it
was one of the crowd favorites, judging by the screams I heard as Beihold transitioned into the
song.
Throughout the evening, Beihold guided the audience through different chapters of her artistic
journey. One track stood out: “Shiny New Things.” This song highlighted the precision of her
vocals, accompanied by beautiful instrumental backing that felt like a duet between Beihold’s
voice and the musicians beside her.
Photo credit: 1824 – Universal Music Group
performing the song, Beihold addressed the audience with a simple message about mental
health, emphasizing that there is no shame in seeking help or relying on medication when
needed. A small, bedazzled pill jar was placed on top of her piano as a visual reminder of the
song’s themes. Through thoughtful lyricism, “Strong Medicine” exposes the realities of mental
health struggles while also encouraging self–acceptance. It was one of the more meaningful
moments of the evening.
The energy shifted again with “Unicorn,” a fan favorite that combines upbeat production with a
darker underlying theme. The song’s playful imagery and repetitive “haha” motif created an
interesting contrast between lightness and emotional complexity. During the performance,
Beihold invited a fan to sing along by positioning the mic toward them, creating one of the
night’s most memorable moments. This interaction highlighted the connection she has built with
concert.
By the end of the night, it was clear why Em Beihold has become an artist to watch. Her ability
to balance vulnerability, humor, and strong musicianship allows her songs to connect with her
audience on a deeply personal level. More than just a concert, her performance at Neumos felt
like a shared journey, not only with her but with the audience.
The night offered far more than entertainment, it was a place for connection and a reminder that
music can make even the most personal experiences feel universal.