On a summer afternoon, one of my best friends sent me a text asking if I listened to Billie Elish, to which I responded “not really.” Despite this fact, I was happy to accompany her to the rising star’s pop-up merchandise shop in New York City. It sounded like an opportunity to have an adventure in one of my favorite places with one of my favorite people.
Hours before the shop was expected to open, a line stretched down 57 Walker St in Tribeca, New York. My friend heard that sometimes Billie surprised her pop-up shops by visiting in person. She squealed at the possibility of meeting her idol. In the meantime, I examined the intricate apartment buildings that surrounded our spot in line, hoping one day to live in one. We slowly but steadily started to move.
Out of nowhere, cries of excitement trickled down the line. My friend and I looked around in confusion as a black van slowly drove past the array of teenagers and their mothers. Chaos ensued. Everyone abandoned their spot in line to bombard the mysterious vehicle. Billie Eilish. Phones and passionate screams filled the air. Residents stuck their heads out of their apartments to see what all the fuss was about. Meanwhile, Billie Eilish stuck her head out of the passenger seat to greet all the nearby fans. Before long, I was starstruck and left to process the fleeting yet unbelievable moment.
Shortly after, word spread through the line that Billie was advised against entering the store after such a street safety hazard. Nevertheless, my best friend was ecstatic at the fact that she got to stand so close to her favorite artist. As we steadily approached the shop entrance, more screaming ensued. A young girl standing behind us, shedding tears of joy, just received free Billie Elish concert tickets by a Z100 representative. Her group of friends erupted in celebration, drawing a mixture of excited and jealous eyes. I matched my friend’s disgusted face with utter disbelief.
Today, Billie Eilish is one of my favorite musical artists. I admire her incredibly smart song lyrics and unique voice. Only after such an adventure, I properly listened to her songs. My best friend and I constantly reminisce about the moment we almost got free Billie Eilish tickets. If only that Z100 lady decided to approach us instead. This very moment is actually forever captured on the radio station’s Instagram for anyone that wants to see our dumbfounded faces in the background of a lucky young girl.
