Big Time Rush

Article by Brittany Ormiston

“Gotta live it big time!” shouted the crowd. “That’s right!” responded Kendall Schmidt. You read that correctly…Big Time Rush is back. The band reunited a few years ago with song releases not far behind. After completing a whirlwind reunion tour in 2022, Kendall Schmidt, Logan Henderson, James Maslow, and Carlos PenaVega jumped at the chance to tour this summer for their recent album Another Life. One of the tour stops was in Columbus, Ohio at The Schottenstein Center, and oh how special it was. Exactly 10 years ago, Big Time Rush performed in that very arena and being on stage was incredibly nostalgic with the memories rushing back. There were several fans in the crowd at both shows who were experiencing similar emotions and flashbacks, and all the while feeling like their younger selves again. 

The Can’t Get Enough Tour really has hit home for many fans, old and new alike. Older fans are reminiscing on the past while making new memories, which has been quite healing and freeing in a way. New fans are attending the live shows for the first time, and creating core memories they will be sure to share with everyone they cross paths with. All fans can agree that Big Time Rush’s shows are overflowing with love, support, and pure bliss. Each member of the band has a soft spot for their fans, and they always ensure everyone is included and shown appreciation. With every fan they meet, they wrap them into a warm embrace and cherish every moment. Their kind and humorous personalities shine through during meet and greets, which in turn have fans coming back for more. 

Their love spills over into their live shows without a doubt. During the Columbus show, Big Time Rush continued with the tradition of each member selecting someone from the crowd to be their World Wide Girl (WWG). The number of customized signs that shot up into the air all around the arena was astounding. “This song is dedicated to all of our Rushers,” shared James while introducing the track. The four girls chosen were nothing but smiles as Big Time Rush sang the lyrics of ‘Worldwide’ to them with little twirls to seal the deal. To involve the crowd further, the band stood on the barricade while singing ‘Paralyzed’ and took selfies with those in the first few rows. They ventured out into the crowd and appeared in various places during ‘Windows Down.’ It was thrilling to say the least, and the band greeted countless fans all over the arena. The crowd roared when Logan and James did synchronized backflips off of the platforms once they stepped back on stage. 

The fans embraced all of Big Time Rush’s love with open arms, and sent it right back to them. As the band sang an acoustic version of ‘Any Kind of Guy,’ the crowd knew their special role during the chorus and nailed it. “Yes I will, yes I will!” they yelled at the top of their lungs. The band was so shocked at how loud the crowd was during ‘Nothing Even Matters’ they let them wrap up the track. Logan and James hitting the cymbals with drum sticks certainly helped rile everyone up further. “Columbus Ohio showing up tonightttt,” replied Logan. The crowd made it a point to show support for the new tracks off of Another Life, such as ‘Forget You Now.’ Green lasers circled each member on the platform while they harmonized with one another. Logan jumped down, and belted out a high note that shook the building. An intimate moment was shared when a spotlight showed Carlos playing the ukulele at the end of ‘Weekends.’ The crowd was touched, and the track was certainly a top favorite of the evening.

Rushers have shown time and time again their endless devotion to Kendall, Logan, James, and Carlos. They have filled arenas and amphitheaters throughout this tour emphasizing that this band was never just a phase. The band does not hesitate to express their appreciation for each and every person that is in their corner. “We’re thankful and grateful to be here with you tonight,” stated Logan. The community has, and always will be, a family. Big Time Rush forever.

The Schottenstein Center in Columbus, OH on July 15, 2023

Photos by Everly Ormiston