VH1 brings Super Bowl concert to Luke

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Grace Lee
  • 56th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
LUKE AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. --  Hundreds of Thunderbolts waited in line, some with faces painted and signs ready, in anticipation of seeing their favorite artists -- Fall Out Boy and Charli XCX.

The VH1 and Papa John's Super Bowl Blitz: A Concert for the Troops event was hosted by Nick Lachey, former 98 Degrees band member, in Hangar 999 at Luke Air Force Base.

Speaking for the group, Fall Out Boy's bass guitarist shared some words.

"I think it's important to give back to people who are of service to you, and it seemed like it was a cool opportunity to go up and meet our troops, interact with them and see what life on the base is like as well," said Pete Wentz, Fall Out Boy bass guitarist.

For Fall Out Boy, it's about giving back to not only those who serve at Luke but around the world.

"It's awesome for us to be able to play for the troops," Wentz said. "I also think the fact that it's going to be broadcasted around the world is pretty cool and that troops abroad will be able to see the concert."

The members of Fall Out Boy weren't the only ones excited for the concert. Holding up a sign in support of Fall Out Boy with her face painted like their "American Beauty/American Psycho" album cover, a Luke service member's daughter couldn't hold in her enthusiasm.

"I'm overly excited, ecstatic to be able to see Fall Out Boy today," said Kelsey England, 14, daughter of Lt. Col. Joel England, 56th Fighter Wing staff judge advocate. "I like all the band members and have been a fan for a couple years. My favorite songs are 'Alone Together' and 'Centuries.'"

Airman 1st Class Stephen Morrow, 56th Component Maintenance Squadron Aircrew egress technician, came to see Fall Out Boy.

"It's pretty cool to be able to see them for free on base," he said. "I'm really looking forward to hearing their song 'Centuries' today."

Fall Out Boy played many fan favorites as well as their new song "Centuries," and Charli XCX performed "Boom Clap."

"It was awesome to see Charlie perform on stage tonight," said 2nd Lt. Tanya Wren, 56th Fighter Wing Public Affairs officer. "She sounded amazing live!"

The concert was broadcast on VH1's channel and streamed live on VH1.com.

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