Singer-songwriter Magnus Ferrell, a sophomore studying music, performed his newest single “Drinks on Me” along with a variety of other songs in an exhilarating sold-out show at the Hollywood Vermont on Oct. 19. Ferrell’s show connected in charitable partnership with Smile Train, a nonprofit organization providing children with corrective cleft lip surgery.
Ferrell was surprised by the number of supporters who came out on a Thursday night. “I am shocked that we sold out which is unheard of. I am also happy to do this for a good cause with Smile Train but I am just excited to perform,” Ferrell said.
He was preceded by his close friend Deacon Phillippe, son of actress Reese Witherspoon, who performed a couple of his released and unreleased songs, lighting up the stage with his similar wardrobe change from his red carpet look.
Ferrell, who changed into a full white look from a colorful fall sweater after the red carpet, was accompanied by his father Will Ferrell, his mother Viveca Paulin and his brother, Matthias. Reese Witherspoon and Ferrell’s band were also there to support the concert. Multiple content creators such as Karissa Rose and Makayla Andrews also appeared on the carpet before the live performances.
As a music student who aspires to pursue a career in the entertainment industry, Ferrell acknowledged the personal sacrifices to make his dream a reality.
“It can conflict. Tonight, I am literally missing a midterm, but you know, I think you just have to get your priorities straight,” Ferrell said “This is just my Plan A. There is no Plan B.”
Although Ferrell’s first debut performance hosted hundreds of attendees, his ambitious goals would have him perform for a crowd much bigger. Ferrell has utilized social media promotion to increase his brand as an artist, reposting dozens of Instagram stories to market his show to USC students and surrounding communities the night before.
“I went to Coachella a couple of years ago and I was the only one out of my friends who did not enjoy it because I wanted to be on stage and up there. Those big festivals and events are the ones I’d want to do.”
The crowd went wild and started jumping up and down when “Drinks of Me” came on. As his fans repeatedly cheered “encore” at the end of the show, he came right back on to sing a cover of “Happier Than Ever” before “Sweet Caroline” as an ode to connect the audience of all ages together. He thanked his fans and promised to release more music soon.