Review of Lana Del Rey’s performance at Wembley Stadium in London
Lana Del Rey’s much-anticipated return to the UK and Ireland last year signified a significant moment for fans. While she had made some festival appearances, these summer shows marked her first full-scale tour in Europe since 2017, and her first-ever stadium tour in the region. The stakes were high, and although her earlier performances faced criticism for tardiness, pre-recorded vocals, and a limited setlist, Lana took the stage at Wembley Stadium for a sold-out show, ready to deliver a memorable experience.
The lineup included TikTok sensation turned pop star Addison Rae, who surprised the audience with her energetic performance. With a team of dancers and upbeat songs like ‘Money Is Everything’ and ‘Summer Forever’, Addison showcased her star potential and set the stage for Lana’s grand entrance. As Lana emerged in a stunning Valentino gown against a backdrop of a Craftsman-style house and white picket fences, the audience was transported into an Americana dreamscape akin to a small-town fairytale.
Rather than diving straight into her greatest hits, Lana chose to open with some of her personal favorites, including the lesser-known ‘Henry, Come On’ and a cover of Tammy Wynette’s ‘Stand By Your Man’. This decision showed a deliberate intention to curate a setlist that resonated with her artistic vision. However, as the performance progressed, Lana took the audience on a journey through her back catalogue, with hits like ‘Ultraviolence’ and ‘Video Games’ shining brightly in the stadium setting.
Midway through the show, Lana disappeared into the house, reemerging through a glowing window for songs like ‘Norman Fucking Rockwell’ and ‘Arcadia’. Her dancers, backup singers, and holographic projections added depth and drama to the performance, with moments like the recitation of Alan Ginsberg’s ‘Howl’ providing a thought-provoking contrast to the Americana fantasy on display. The show culminated in Lana’s powerful renditions of ‘Young and Beautiful’, ‘Summertime Sadness’, and ‘Born to Die’, showcasing her versatility and artistry.
As the night came to a close, Lana welcomed Addison Rae back on stage for a playful encore, symbolizing a passing of the torch between the established star and the rising talent. Through her ambitious yet engaging performance, Lana Del Rey proved that her music has stood the test of time and that her artistry continues to evolve. For Lana, this night at Wembley Stadium was not about perfection but about intention, marking a significant milestone in her career.