Justin Bieber staged an unannounced free concert at MacArthur Park in Los Angeles, surprising people in the area with a short outdoor performance.
The appearance took place without any prior announcement or publicity, with an enthusiastic crowd gathering as Bieber performed. Many of those present recorded the moment on their mobile phones, with videos and photographs quickly spreading across social media.
Bieber performs with four musicians
The global star appeared alongside four musicians, dressed casually in a white T-shirt and shorts.
His set included “Speed Demon”, “All I Can Take”, “Daisies” and “Yukon”.
After the performance, Bieber remained at the park to speak with fans and pose for photographs.
According to The Guardian, the surprise appearance was markedly different from the large-scale productions Bieber recently presented at the World Cup and Coachella.
The choice of venue also surprised many social media users.
Why MacArthur Park attracted attention
Located west of downtown Los Angeles, MacArthur Park has frequently been portrayed in bleak terms because of longstanding problems in the surrounding area.
The neighbourhood has faced issues linked to gang activity and widespread drug use, while homeless encampments have developed around the park in recent years.
Bieber’s decision to stage an informal performance there therefore attracted additional attention beyond the concert itself.
Efforts to transform the park
The performance came shortly after an outdoor event held at MacArthur Park the previous weekend by Los Angeles District Attorney Nathan Hochman.
That event formed part of Hochman’s commitment to transform the park into a more family-friendly environment.
Bieber’s unexpected appearance subsequently brought another crowd to the site, this time for an impromptu concert that rapidly gained attention beyond the park through social media.
@hellocanadamag Justin Bieber pulled up for a surprise jam session in an LA park, greeting young fans and wowing passersby 🎶 💛 The Canadian star, 32, performed some of his hits at the little concert, turning the park into his stage 🎤 📽️ : sclabryan #justinbieber ♬ original sound - HELLO! Canada Magazine
Source: CNA
