MAYDAY PARADE LIVE!! | RITZ

Coverage by Chris Sturk

Mayday Parade took the stage at the Ritz Music Venue in Raleigh to a packed house, delivering a performance that will be remembered for years to come by the fans who attended. The energy was electric, and fans were ecstatic to hear the band play their favorite songs.

Formed in 2005 in Tallahassee, Florida, Mayday Parade released their debut EP in 2006, followed by their first full-length album, A Lesson in Romantics, in 2007. Over the years, they've gifted fans with beloved hits such as "If You Wanted a Song Written About You, All You Had to Do Was Ask," "Stay," "Jersey," "Anywhere But Here," and "Hold Onto Me."

The band's lineup includes:

  • Derek Sanders (Vocals)

  • Jeremy Lenzo (Bass)

  • Alex Garcia (Lead Guitar)

  • Jake Bundrick (Drums)

  • Brooks Betts (Guitar)

Their performance at the Ritz in Raleigh was nothing short of exhilarating. As soon as they hit the stage, the crowd erupted, singing along with Derek Sanders from the very first song. Each band member radiated enthusiasm, engaging with fans throughout the night. They moved dynamically across the stage, jumping and playing with passion.

The stage setup was simple yet effective, enhanced by CO₂ cannons that fired bursts of fog during key moments of the set, further amplifying the excitement of the performance. For me, this concert was particularly special—I remember listening to A Lesson in Romantics when it first came out, and seeing the band live after 20 years of making music was an incredible experience. It's clear that the band still loves performing, and their passion for their craft and their fans shines through in every song.

If you're a fan of Mayday Parade, this is a show you won't want to miss. Their live performance is a testament to their enduring energy, talent, and love for music. Catch them while you can!