Zedd lit up the sold-out 713 Music Hall in Houston on September 28, 2024, delivering an electrifying performance that celebrated his Telos album and many dance classics.
Known for his genre-defying sound, Zedd transformed the night into an unforgettable experience filled with high energy, captivating visuals, and a dynamic setlist.
Anton Zaslavski, better known as Zedd, was born in Russia and began his musical journey in 2010 with the release of his first song, “The Anthem.” His debut album, Clarity, dropped in 2012 and quickly became a major success, with its title track winning the Grammy Award for Best Dance Recording in 2014. Following up with his second album, True Colors, in 2015, he has continued to evolve as an artist, culminating in his latest release, Telos, nine years later.
The evening kicked off with the infectious beats of “Where You Are,” a John Summit cover that instantly set the tone for the night. The crowd responded quickly, their excitement palpable as they swayed to the rhythm. His signature production style was evident from the start, blending deep bass with uplifting melodies.
Following this opener, Zedd seamlessly transitioned into “I Want You to Know.” The vibrant lights pulsed in sync with the music, enveloping the audience in a visual feast. He continued to keep the energy high with a stunning rendition of Lana Del Rey’s “Summertime Sadness,” where the crowd sang along, creating a euphoric atmosphere.
A highlight of the night came with Tame Impala’s “The Less I Know the Better,” where Zedd’s unique touch infused the song with a fresh energy that had everyone dancing. The momentum continued with “Starving,” a Hailee Steinfeld cover that showcased his ability to transform pop hits into club anthems.
Zedd’s heartfelt connection with the audience shone through as he encouraged fans to join in, creating an intimate atmosphere despite the grandeur of the production. The combination of powerful lyrics and soaring melodies brought the crowd together in a shared moment of joy. The latter transformed the venue into a celestial wonderland, with visuals that felt otherworldly, enhancing the song’s ethereal quality. Each track flowed seamlessly into the next, maintaining the energy and keeping the crowd engaged.
In a surprising twist, Zedd took to the drums for an exhilarating solo that left the crowd speechless. As he beat the drum, the lights behind him illuminated the audience, creating a mesmerizing visual that perfectly complemented the rhythm. His unexpected cover of “Find You” on the drums showcased not just his musical versatility but also his infectious energy, solidifying the connection with the fans.
The Telos tour was a feast for the senses, showcasing all the dazzling lasers, explosive pyrotechnics, and pulsating progressive house beats that Zedd fans have come to adore. One memorable moment came when he took to the drums, a nod to his musical roots as a drummer in the metal band Dioramic. This blend of nostalgia and innovation created a spectacular experience filled with vibrant colors and immersive sounds. While new elements delighted the audience, the tour also provided longtime fans with a heartwarming trip down memory lane, reminding everyone of his incredible journey in music.
As he moved through the set, tracks like “Lost at Sea” and the electrifying “Animals” (a Martin Garrix cover) kept the crowd engaged and moving. The combination of thumping bass and ethereal visuals created an immersive experience that felt almost otherworldly. Zedd’s versatility shone through as he incorporated a medley of well-known remixes, including John Summit’s “Where You Are” and the infectious “MAGIC! – Rude.” The energy peaked during his remix of Daft Punk’s iconic “One More Time,” which had the audience singing and dancing in unison.
The setlist included a diverse mix of genres, showcasing Zedd’s broad musical influences. “Show Me Love” (a Steve Angello & Laidback Luke cover) and “Spectrum” brought back memories of dance floor favorites, while newer tracks like “Bad Habits” (an Ed Sheeran cover) resonated with fans of all ages.
The night reached its peak with a thrilling rendition of “Beautiful Now.” The crowd erupted in cheers, dancing, and singing along, their energy feeding off Zedd’s dynamic stage presence. The visuals reached their zenith, creating a breathtaking display that left everyone in awe.
As the night drew toward its climax, Zedd delivered powerful performances of “Clarity” and “The Middle.” Just before launching into “Clarity,” he playfully instructed those in the crowd attending with their girlfriends to put them on their shoulders, creating a wave of excitement that added to the atmosphere. The crowd erupted in cheers as they sang along, creating a moment of pure euphoria.
For the encore, Zedd returned to the stage with “Clarity,” bringing the night to an exhilarating close. The stunning visuals, combined with his infectious enthusiasm, left everyone buzzing long after the last note faded. His seamless transitions into “Clarity” and “Stay” only amplified the energy, as fans lost themselves in the euphoric atmosphere.
Zedd’s sold-out performance at the 713 Music Hall was a masterclass in live electronic music, showcasing not only his impressive production skills but also his ability to connect with the audience on a personal level. This show was a celebration of sound, light, and the communal spirit of dance music—an experience that fans will eagerly remember and anticipate his return for. The Telos tour at the 713 Music Hall was a spectacular celebration of sound, light, and connection. For anyone looking for an unforgettable night filled with dance and emotion, this performance was a must-see, leaving fans eagerly anticipating his return to Houston.
I'm a Houston/Texas based photographer and Palestinian artist. I am currently attending the University of Houston pursuing a bachelors in Psychology with a Studio Arts minor! Away from the camera lense, I'm documenting captivating moments at a show.. I like to spend my time with friends, reading, visiting antique stores, or spending time with my puppy! I am super passionate about all things art and music and cannot wait to continue sharing that with the world.