98ROCKFEST never disappoints. Growing up in the Tampa Bay Area, I’ve been going to this show for a little over 10 years now. Held at Amaile Arena, it’s one of the shows I look forward to every year.
Both inside and outside the arena were buzzing with excitement and anticipation throughout the entire night. Kicking off the energy inside was Bad Wolves & Beartooth. They commanded the stage and got the crowd off their feet from the floor to the seats. Next up was The Pretty Reckless who gave a hauntingly beautiful and mesmerizing performance. Taylor‘s voice sounded like one of a siren, and I would be happy to be lured to my rock and roll death. Following The Pretty Reckless was Falling in Reverse. In my personal opinion, Falling in Reverse is one of those bands that you HAVE to see live, as they always sound exactly as they do on their albums. Their energy and love for what they do is indescribable. I was sitting on the first level above the pit and my section was going absolutely feral, singing every single word to every song in their set. Closing the night was Breaking Benjamin, the one everyone was waiting for. Rockers of all ages were singing from the depths of their soul. Fans from the beginning and fans seeing them for the very first time were equally awed by their performance, sounding exactly the same as we hear over our radio every day.
Over the years, 98ROCK seems to have not only perfected the show, but continues to make it better by adding interactive experiences and bringing the community on stage. This year, they brought up a couple who got married that very day (and again on stage!) and a young girl who skipped her prom to come to the concert, who they deemed 98 Rock Prom Queen! Being a mixed media artist myself, one of my favorite installments to see was the interactive photo area by Skribl, which was being utilized all night. Little moments like these truly make me love this community and this radio station even more.
Overall, the show and venue were simply amazing. The bands poured their heart and soul on that stage, and they did it for US. 98ROCKFEST 2023 will definitely be one to remember for me, and I can’t wait to see what bands will be at 98ROCKFEST 2024.
Photographer – Nicolette Rose
Writer – Sam Marie
