Jason Schmidt, widely recognized for his breakout role as Soda Pop in the Tony Award-winning musical The Outsiders, delivered a mesmerizing performance at Union Stage in Washington, D.C. Blending elements of Pop, R&B, and Jazz, his music showcased a dynamic range of sounds inspired by diverse influences across the states. The packed venue was a testament to his growing popularity, an especially impressive feat given that this marked his first solo tour, transitioning from intimate performances in clubs and small bars to a stage.
The show kicked off with an upbeat performance of “Hey Hailey,” a standout track from his debut EP, Intrusive Thoughts. The song’s rock and pop feeling, tempo, and heartfelt lyrics immediately set the tone for the evening, showcasing one of his more romantic and youthful narratives. The crowd’s energy rose as they sang along to the catchy chorus, creating a fun atmosphere.
Following the powerful opener, the setlist flowed effortlessly into slower, more emotional tracks, showcasing his talent for forging a deep connection with his fans. This marked one of the first live performances of his latest release, “Close By”, which debuted just a week ago.
One of the most memorable moments of the night was a duet with his college friend, Nuala, whose harmonies added a beautiful layer of vulnerability to their performance. This heartfelt collaboration was met with cheers from the audience, who clearly appreciated the authenticity and chemistry between the two performers. Later, he switched gears with a high-energy rap collaboration featuring his best friend, Kid Wolf, bringing a dynamic and unexpected twist to the show.
Of course, the set wouldn’t have been complete without a fan-favorite track,“Growing Up”. The encore was everything a fan could imagine it could be. A sweet serenade while he sang, “Little Blue World,” a song he wrote when he was in a rough young adulthood. Each performance seemed to tell a story, weaving together themes of love, nostalgia, friendship, and self-discovery, leaving the audience captivated from start to finish.
