Billie Eilish Threw An Album Listening Party in NYC for Hit Me Hard and Soft With American Express

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To celebrate the launch of Billie Eilish’s latest album, Hit Me Hard and Soft, American Express teamed up with the singer to host a listening party in NYC ahead of the album release, and I got to attend the very special event on behalf of Teen Vogue. And it was definitely an experience, to say the least.

When I first arrived at Barclays Center, I almost forgot that I wasn't there for a concert, judging by the massive crowd of fans waiting to get in. Everyone was ready to hear and see Eilish. I sped in through the American Express card member side, which expedited the check-in process. Once I got past security, I was greeted by two ushers with an envelope containing an exclusive Amex coupon for the merch store.

The arena was packed with fans — people were waiting in different lines everywhere to get snacks, drinks, and merch, so I immediately dotted my way through the crowd to get on the Amex card-member-only merch line. The options were cool, though limited: you could pick from two hoodies (each for $125), a burgundy zip-up or a black pullover, a black graphic crew neck T-shirt ($50), and a grey sleeveless graphic shirt ($50). I went for the muscle tee since it felt the most versatile for my wardrobe.

After that, I headed to the American Express store to get some snacks and was ultimately surprised by the cashless concept. I tapped my card to get in through the subway-like turnstiles (clear doors), and from there, I just had to grab what I wanted and go ( I was told there are sensors all around the store tracking what you pick up, and it charges your card automatically).

The vibe inside the area was very on par with the album cover art: everything was blue… blue lights and huge blue block letters across the floor that read “Hit Me Hard and Soft.” As I waited for the pop star to come out, I was able to snack on my food and get a good view of the place. It was packed from top to bottom, and I spotted fans in bright neon green hats everywhere (which reminded me of Eilish's previous vibrant green hair). I even overheard a conversation behind me between two best friends who had traveled from Washington D.C. to come to the show, so if it was safe to say I was amongst true die-hard Billie fans that night.

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Eilish was originally slated to start around 8:30/9 pm, but after an announcement on the loudspeakers, all attendees were informed that she would start at 9:30 pm instead to allow more fans to enter before starting the show. She walked out at the exact time in her signature look sporting an oversized long-sleeve shirt, basketball shorts, and a baseball cap. Her first words were, “How are you doing?” and she received a loud, roaring response of cheers and screams across the arena. She followed up with, “Guys…I just sh*t myself,” and mentioned her nervousness. She then explained that she would let the whole album play with no pauses or interruptions… and that she did. The show started, and for the rest of the 45 minutes, we all watched Eilish run around, dance, sit, lie, and stand in the middle of the floor. Her brother, Finneas, also served as the cameraman, taking shots of her the entire time; she even grabbed the camera from him at one point and turned it on him.

Eilish showed love to every side of the arena, constantly running across the floor to touch hands and give high fives to fans sitting in the front rows. There were also lots of flashing lights, smoky fog, and cool lighting effects that added some drama to the party. Once the last song finished, Eilish picked up the mic and said, “Okay, that's it…..f***ing bye….I love you so much" and made her exit.

That was my first time attending an album-listening party, and I can't lie… I had a great time, as did all the fans around me. We also all collectively agreed that we'd be back to see her in concert at Madison Square Garden in October. Until then, I'll be playing Hit Me Hard and Soft on endless repeat.

Originally Appeared on Teen Vogue