For Maya Hawke, June 1 was more than just a show — it was her first performance since the release of her new album “Chaos Angel.”  Maya Hawke is a well-known performer and actress who played Robin Buckley in Netflix’s “Stranger Things.” At the end of her set, she shared how this stop in The Blue Room at Third Man Records was “the most magical show of her life,” as every concert in Nashville is. 

Hawke’s fans at the show were people from various walks of life, from couples to families with children. I specifically noticed many father-daughter duos. The crowd also appeared to have a nostalgic taste in music, with many singing along to Taylor Swift’s “Crazier” and Rascal Flatts’ “Bless The Broken Heart” before Hawke took the stage.

After opening with her song “Dark,” which is from “Chaos Angel,” Hawke spoke to the audience.

“Every time I come [to Nashville], something magical happens to me in my life,” Hawke said. “And it’s never been more magical than this.” 

Incorporating her new album wasn’t the only first for Hawke’s performance — it was also her debut playing guitar live. Her fans’ memorization of Hawke’s lyrics impressed her throughout the show. She complimented the crowd standing near the stage, calling their memory a “power.”

Despite many of her songs being emotional, Hawke found ways to incorporate humor into her performance transitions. She even broke the fourth wall, speaking directly to her fans. Before singing “Missin’ Out,” her biggest hit from “Chaos Angel,” Hawke joked with the crowd about the little mistakes during her set. 

“So if you ever come to see this show again, that transition will be perfect,” Hawke said.

I couldn’t help but dance along and feed off the lively energy of my surroundings — it was truly a beautiful night. Hawke’s little comments and expressive performing style made for a truly raw and stunning show. 

Hawke’s show was brief because she had a second sold-out show following the first. However, she provided three encore songs to wrap up the early evening. She sang “South Elroy,” “Luna Moth”  and “Therese,” which are all from her 2022 album “Moss.” Hawke encouraged the audience to sing the choruses.

Hawke thanked the audience for their support, but attending the show was a pleasure. The exquisite venue and community-like environment allowed me to enjoy everything about the evening, especially Hawke’s stellar performance.