*Hannah Bahng* (Source: Sydney Wright, Hailey House Imnida)

This past week, I had the incredible opportunity to attend Hannah Bahng’s Misunderstood World Tour in New York City, on behalf of Hailey House Imnida. I was absolutely thrilled - I’ve been getting into Hannah’s music heavily over the past six months, so seeing her live was a huge bucket list moment. The energy in the venue was electric; Hannah and her opening artist Frances Anderson were phenomenal performers, the band sounded amazing, and I even made some new friends along the way. On top of attending, I got to photograph the show - and had the best time doing it. Read on for a recap of an unforgettable night!

Hannah Bahng is a 21-year-old singer-songwriter from Sydney, Australia. She began posting covers and vlogs on YouTube in 2021, quickly gaining attention from soon-to-be fans. In 2024, under her self-owned label Bahng Entertainment, Hannah released her debut EP, The Abyssmal EP, followed by an international tour that sold out venues worldwide. Her sound has evolved alongside her growth as an artist - a blend of rock, indie, and R&B elements, paired with clever songwriting and striking vocals. Hannah also takes full creative control over her career - from designing her own merch to directing her music videos and shaping her sound alongside her team. That artistic freedom is rare in this industry, and she uses it brilliantly, as showcased onstage tonight.

*Fans* (Source: Sydney Wright, Hailey House Imnida)

The night was long, in the best way possible. Some fans had purchased VIP packages that included a pre-show soundcheck, a Q&A session, and photo ops with Hannah. The excitement was felt both inside and outside the venue - fans lined up chatting, laughing, and sharing stories. One fan even sat on the venue floor sketching a portrait of Hannah before the show. Others sported merch, photocards, themed keychains, and handmade signs.

Opener Frances Anderson was an absolute delight - a talented artist with a warm presence and a voice that immediately drew in the crowd. Dressed in a dreamy, forest-princess-like outfit, she performed a mix of covers and original songs with effortless grace. You might recognize Frances from her childhood acting career (she famously played Lily on Modern Family), but music is one of her biggest passions. She shared the stories behind her songs, many written during transitional moments in her life, such as breakups, growth, and self-discovery. Her recent debut EP Drown showcases that same heartfelt energy. (“Don’t Forget About Me” is a standout track!)

*Frances Anderson* (Source: Sydney Wright, Hailey House Imnida)

Since the show fell on the night before Halloween, fans brought the costumes and creativity in full force. From my spot in the balcony, I spotted Pokémon characters, movie icons, spooky creatures, and anime favorites. Hannah affectionately calls her fans BLUES, matching her signature blue-toned visuals and imagery… and the crowd reflected it beautifully. Blue shirts, hair accessories, signs, and friendship bracelets filled the room.

And then there was the Lorax. One absolute legend stood out in a neon orange bodysuit, complete with a fake yellow mustache and eyebrows, waving at my camera every chance she got and catching the attention of both Frances and Hannah during the show. This diva’s energy was contagious and had everyone around her laughing.

When the lights dimmed, the crowd erupted. Drummer Puma and guitarist Liam Fennel took the stage first, followed by Hannah, who opened with an extended version of “what never lived.” The next hour was packed with a perfect mix of Hannah’s originals, covers, and a few surprises. Her energy never wavered… feeding off the crowd’s enthusiasm and sending it right back onstage. Her set moved seamlessly between jazzy swing-inspired numbers, rock anthems, emotional ballads, and lively singalongs. At several points, she hyped the crowd up with shouts of “HEY! HEY! HEY!” - and honestly, it’s only a matter of time before a full-on mosh pit forms at one of her shows.

Between songs, Hannah shared stories behind the music and reflected on how she crafted the live arrangements to feel distinct from the studio versions. One highlight for me was “Orchid/Flame,” one of her newer songs from the Misunderstood album. The live version hit hard - the strings were richer, the vocals rawer, and the energy palpable as the band joined her in an explosive finish. It was a stunning moment that perfectly captured her artistry and storytelling. During a more lowkey energy moment, she sat at the keyboard and performed a beautiful cover of Wildflower by Billie Eilish, a song that perfectly fit her musical style.

In one of the most memorable moments of the night, Hannah invited influencer Sarah Roh onstage, gifting her a pair of Eevee ears before the two selected a fan from the crowd - someone dressed as Blastoise - to join them. Moments later, Hannah reappeared in a full Eevee costume, performing the Pokémon theme song as the audience screamed and sang along. It was playful, unexpected, and so Hannah - effortlessly blending humor and heart in performance.

*Hannah Bahng & Blue* (Source: Sydney Wright, Hailey House Imnida)

When the show finally wrapped, the crowd was buzzing. I left the venue feeling happy, inspired, and deeply impressed. Hannah’s authenticity, humor, and passion radiated through every song and interaction. Her performance didn’t just meet expectations - it surpassed them. Frances Anderson was equally captivating, and it was such a treat to experience both artists in one night.

Even with their early success, it’s clear that both Hannah and Frances are just getting started - and I can’t wait to see where their careers go next. I was already a fan of Hannah before, but now I’m officially hooked. As a proud Blue, I can say this night was something truly special.

Thank you so much, Hannah Bahng and Frances Anderson! You’re welcome back to New York anytime 💙

Special thanks to Bahng Entertainment
Photos by Sydney Wright on behalf of Hailey House Imnida

Written by Sydney Wright

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