Dylan Novacek
Last updated on August 13th, 2023 at 09:42 pm
Multi-platinum pop star Pink brought her Summer Carnival tour to Minneapolis, setting the record for the highest attendance at a Target Field concert. And it’s obvious to see why: Pink is one of the must-see pop stars of this generation.
Known for her over-the-top acrobatics, Pink presented a very strong first impression as she descended from the top of the stage, taking flight several times throughout the opening song “Get The Party Started.” The entire stage production was perfectly crafted, well-choreographed chaos.
From Pink taking flight, dancers spinning upside down above the stage, people driving flamingo boats, pyro, and more, it was the most over-the-top show I’ve ever seen.
When she wasn’t impressing the audience with theatrics, she captivated the crowd with her Grammy Award-winning voice. With over two decades of performances behind her, Pink proved that she has the most powerful voice in American pop music today.
Drawing on a discography full of hit songs, there was something to please every fan. If you’ve listened to local radio in the last twenty years, you likely knew the entire setlist.
For me, I’ve always casually enjoyed her music, but especially loved her 2013 hit “Just Give Me A Reason” featuring Nate Ruess from FUN., a band I miss every day. It was great to hear that song live, even if Nate Ruess’ part is just a video recording of him from a decade ago.
With a solid hour of nonstop partying, the show slowed down to a more relaxed pace in what felt like an intimate summer sing-along. Pink brought out her daughter to sing for the crowd, which was a really sweet and memorable moment.
Supporting artists for the night were alternative act Grouplove and Rock and Roll Hall of Famers Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo.
Grouplove was a fitting choice for the Summer Carnival. Their glitzy energy and peppy alternative sound easily caught the attention of all the fans who arrived early.
With a commanding stage presence, the group’s lead singers strutted down the runway to get up close and personal with the fans.
Perhaps best known for their hits “Tongue Tied” and “Ways to Go,” Grouplove caught my attention enough to add some of their newer songs to my playlists. Their latest album I Want It All Right Now is available to stream.
Following Grouplove was the legendary Pat Benatar. Being one of my mother’s favorite singers, I regard her as one of the all-time greats. Watching her perform was one of the highlights of the night. Hitting the stage in a Twins jersey, she opened with “All Fired Up.”
Even at age 70, Benatar still performs with high energy and excellent vocals. Performing alongside her partner Neil Giraldo, their stage chemistry was charming to see.
Benatar took fans through the decades and shared some stories of each of the songs. A stand-out was “We Belong,” which felt like a perfect summer stadium song.
Fan favorites “Love is a Battlefield” and “Heartbreaker” were played back to back to close out the set, but curiously “Hit Me With Your Best Shot” was missing from the performance.
Overall, Pink’s show was a perfectly executed masterclass on how to put on a stadium performance. From the strong first impression to the expertly performed slow moments to the dazzling finale, this show was excellent. It stands as not only the largest concert in the history of Target Field, but in my opinion, one of the best.
I say this with 100% honesty: Target Field ranks among the best music venues in the state. With perfect acoustics, an abundance of food options, and a beautiful city skyline to look upon, who could ask for more? Here is hoping residents of the Twin Cities get to see more concerts like this one at the field next summer.
Pink’s setlist from the night is available, and be sure to check out our review of Pink’s 2019 stop to the Twin Cities.
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