By Clinton Camper
David Kushner turned up the heat at Southside Ballroom in Dallas on November 13, delivering an electrifying performance that left the packed venue buzzing long after the last note. Fresh off the success of his viral hit “Daylight,” Kushner proved he’s much more than just a TikTok sensation—he’s a force to be reckoned with in the live music scene.
The night kicked off with a few low-key, atmospheric moments as Kushner and his band eased into the set with the haunting “Mr. Forgettable,” a track that immediately showcased his knack for blending emotional depth with infectious melodies. It was a slow burn at first—his raw, raspy vocals echoing through the room like a soundtrack for late-night introspection—but it didn’t take long for the energy to build.
What stood out right away was Kushner’s ability to balance vulnerability with a certain magnetic confidence. His voice hit every emotional note with precision, but there was a fire behind it that made every song feel like a personal confession. As the crowd got into it, the room began to fill with an undeniable anticipation for what was coming next.
When he hit the stage with “Burn,” the crowd completely lost it. There was a palpable buzz in the air—everyone singing along with the anthemic chorus, totally immersed in the moment. This wasn’t just a hit song—it was a *movement* in the room. Kushner’s performance brought new life to the track, layering it with raw energy and an intensity that made it feel fresh every time he hit the chorus.
But it wasn’t all highs. As the set progressed, Kushner showed off his ability to pull back, hitting those quieter, more intimate moments with songs like “Elk Grove” and “Cigarettes.” He had the crowd hanging on every word, as if each line was a secret shared between friends. It was a reminder that his songwriting isn’t just about catchy hooks—it’s about connection, and that’s what made the show feel so personal.
What really elevated Kushner’s performance was his stage presence. There was an easy confidence about him—he owned the stage with the kind of cool that’s hard to fake. Whether he was leaning into the mic during an intimate ballad or stepping back from the crowd for a more reflective moment, it was clear that Kushner wasn’t just performing songs; he was feeling them. His connection with the audience was immediate and sincere—like he was letting us in on something real.
The band behind him was on fire, too. From the thumping bass to the intricate guitar riffs, each member brought their own flavor to the mix, ensuring the sound stayed fresh and dynamic. The live arrangement of “Skin and Bones” was a standout, transforming the already emotional track into something even more explosive in the live setting.
As the show neared its end, David Kushner made sure to leave Dallas on a high note with a blistering encore. The energy in the room was electric, with fans shouting for more and singing along to every word. He capped off the night with a powerful rendition of “Daylight,” making the entire venue feel like one big moment of release.
David Kushner’s show at Southside Ballroom wasn’t just a concert—it was an experience. He’s clearly on the rise, not just because of his viral success but because he’s an artist who knows how to translate raw emotion into something that connects with people on a deep level. Whether he’s playing the quieter moments or exploding into full-on anthems, Kushner knows how to command a room and leave a lasting impression.
If you haven’t seen David Kushner live yet, make sure you catch him on this tour—he’s the real deal, and it’s only a matter of time before his star fully explodes.