It was a brisk November night. We walked passed the entrance guarded by security guards and tried to sneak a look at the location that would be ingrained in our memories for the rest of our lives. After waiting on the outskirts of West Hollywood, we proceeded into the small venue, where we awaited Jake Bugg’s arrival on stage. For the first few songs, the audience remained quiet and contemplative of Jake’s lyrics; there were no outrageous fangirls screaming or drunken adults trying to mimic the beauty of the songs, only quiet onlookers swaying to the rhythm of the music. Bugg’s simple setlist of only 23 songs made the audience crave more.

Jake Bugg’s music could be described as alternative, indie, or even folk rock that parallels that of the Beatles, Bob Dylan, the White Stripes, Alex Turner, Tom Odell and other timeless musicians. Bugg became famous by opening for several famous bands like the Black Keys and the Arctic Monkeys. His fame has also increased because of his appearances on the Ellen show, American Idol, Conan, the Graham Norton Show, and The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon. Over the last year he has been nominated for ten awards including the BRIT award for best Breakthrough Act and Best Male Solo Artist.

Although Bugg rarely interacts with his fans, his songs are his way of communicating with them. With songs like “Note to Self,” he reminds his audience of their beauty and perfection. He sings, “Girl, don’t beat yourself up / your best is good enough…” He understands the struggle of every teenager: the need to be perfect. His song, “Messed Up Kids,” further shows his deep connection with his fans because he knows what they’re going through, and the very real struggles they deal with. Although Bugg’s lyrics relate to modern issues, his music mimics that of the 1960s. His music provides a modern #TBT for hipsters and lovers of good music alike.