Vans Warped Tour 2013: Toronto

Allstar Weekend, July 5, 2013*

As much as people may say I'm getting too old for this, I always beg to differ. Music is music and no matter what age you are or the music genre that makes your heart AND ears happy. Age is only a number and when it comes to music, and festivals like the Vans Warped Tour, age is clearly ignored. I saw kids as young as 11 and as old as 50 rocking out to their favourite bands. Yes, the older you are the more likely you are a parent but what parent can disagree that some of their kids favourite tunes rub off on you?

My taste in music has varied over the years and has grown to include bands and musicians I never thought I'd listen to in a million years. Most people who know me know I listen to mainly pop-rock, so when they find out I like a certain band they look at me in disbelief. I've said this before and I'll say it again though, music is music. If I like the sound and the lyrics mean something to me, I'm all in!

July 5, 2013 started out like any other typical Warped Tour in Toronto - a long line and rain, rain, rain!

Silverstein, July 5, 2013*

Taking place for the second time around on the Flats on the grounds of what used to be Ontario Place and is still home to the Molson Amphitheatre, Warped Tour  this time around was a heck of a lot better from an organizational standpoint. Last year the stages were placed in awkward areas where it was hard for anyone to get around, the weather was a disaster (torrential rain anyone?), and due to extreme heat, the loss of a life. Anyone who went last year will all agree with me when I say it was a bit of a disaster. Despite the lack of communication with the Warped crew and the Amp security (um hello, photo passes ALLOW media to the front of the stage - duh!), I felt this year went a lot smoother and there were less complications.

Drummer from Hawthorne Heights, July 5, 2013*

While the tradition of the rain upheld (surprise, surprise), the crowds didn't. I'm definitely not saying it wasn't packed - because it was - but it felt this time around that it wasn't as busy. There didn't seem to be as many people this time around and it makes me wonder if the events that took place last year hindered this year's attendance? Nevertheless those fans who were present rocked out and their favourite musicians gave it right back. Tons of bands were out and about greeting fans, doing autograph signings and taking pictures. It was nice to see them interact and have fun with their fans. It's always hard to meet your favourite artists to begin with but it's even harder when bands don't come north of the border very often.

Kellin Quinn, July 5, 2013*

It's always hard to choose which sets to cover as most are located on various stages and throughout the day. It's never easy picking who you skip though and sadly I had to make some tough decisions. yes I am first and foremost a writer but when it comes to  music I may have had to choose between popular vs. favourites.
I feel like I have a nice balance, but I'll let you be the judge of that!

The posts following this main one will showcase the individual bands I was so fortunate to cover as well as any photographs that were taken!

If there are any bands/musicians/reps that read the following posts (including this one) and have any questions or comments feel free to direct them at taryn.mcelheran@gmail.com!

Happy Listening!


*Copyright - All photos are property of My Life in Lyrics. If you wish to use please email me and ask!