September 7, 2026

THE CROWD RUMBLED WITH EXCITEMENT AND STAGE LIGHTS REFLECTED OFF THE SEA OF BALD CAPS PAYING HOMAGE TO MR. WORLDWIDE— Rent was late about a week ago but the crowd didn’t care because Pitbull hit the stage with the perfect setlist and a ferocity that Saratoga, NY has yet to see. This past Wednesday at Saratoga Performing Arts Center, the stage was not just warmed up but on fire from opener Lil Jon, throwing it back to the 2000s with mashups of classics such as “Crank That” by Soulja Boy and “Yeah!” by Usher, ushering in a night filled with pure energy for one of the last summer performances of the SPAC summer season.

Lil Jons opening performance set the tone for the evening; eloquently capitalizing off of the nostalgia of everyones favorite club era: Y2k. Every beat was mixed to perfection with the classic Lil Jon twist that we all know and love. (yeayuh!) The room was hot to begin with, and only became steamier with his energetic set.

In true Miami fashion, the stage had very little time to cool off before becoming electrified by Mr. Worldwide. I had the pleasure of onlooking both performances from the soundboard, offering a unique perspective of the artists and the crowd all at once.

Upon Pitbull’s arrival to the stage the audience seemingly moved as one, sweat glistening down foreheads, hips shaking in unison, and mirrored stage lights reflecting off the crowd.

There is a special kind of star quality about Pitbull that is difficult to put into words. He has inspired a movement of fans and brought together a community of younger generations to idolize his likeness in a way that not many artists have been able to accomplish, if any.

Fan culture has transformed over time into a performative show ritual, with an unspoken (or sometimes widely spoken of) dress code that at times can feel like a requirement to adhere to if you are attending said event. From a Harry Styles concert to a Taylor Swift show, fans outfits often have a theme and they usually go all out with their concert apparel. Pitbull fans escalate that dress code to a new level, and we are so here for it.

Lil Jon was a tough act to follow, but combined with the star quality of Mr. Worldwide, the two were the best of pairs. The evening was certainly one to remember, believe me. Been there, done that. In the wise words of Pitbull, “Every day above ground is a great day. Remember that.”