BIBI Turns YouTube Theater into Her Stage and Storybook
- Glenalyn Ann
- 6 days ago
- 4 min read
Updated: 5 days ago
As BIBI nears the end of the U.S. leg of her first world tour, [EVE], the multitalented soloist delivered a genre-defying performance at Los Angeles’ YouTube Theater. Blending cinematic storytelling, raw vocals, and heartfelt fan interactions, she created an immersive experience that reimagined what a concert can be.
BIBI first gained recognition through her unique voice and raw songwriting style. Rising to fame after appearing on the singing competition “The Fan” in 2018, she quickly grew her fanbase with her debut song “비누 (BINU),” which was later followed by hits like “The Weekend” and “BIBI Vengeance.” BIBI has become one of South Korea’s most distinctive soloists, as her music goes beyond the song, incorporating her deeply personal, layered and bold artistry.
Before BIBI took the stage, LA was treated to a surprise opening set from James An, originally part of the tour as her translator. James delivered a powerful and unexpected performance, connecting with the audience through personal songs like “Sasha” and “Mia Wallace.” But it was his final track, “AIN'T NOBODY FREE TILL EVERYBODY IS,” that truly left an impact. Inspired by social rights activist Fannie Lou Hamer’s words, the song confronted social justice issues with vulnerability and fire, marking an emotional and thoughtful start to the night.
BIBI’s performance was structured into three acts: EVE, EVE-1, and BIBI, with the first two acts mirroring the narrative of her most recent album, EVE: ROMANCE. The night began with a stylized VCR that introduced EVE, a beloved 1980s Korean pop star with a delicate image. With soft, cinematic visuals and a nostalgic tone, the film set the stage for the emotional rollercoaster to come. Soon, BIBI, dressed in a similar vintage style, emerged to perform “Midnight Cruise” and “Hangang Gongwon.” Despite sharing that she wasn’t feeling well, BIBI promised to give LA her all, and she delivered as she performed “Scott and Zelda” and the viral hit “Bam Yang Gang.”
Before jumping into the next songs, BIBI grinned and told the crowd that if anyone asks, tonight was “appropriate,” gaining laughs from fans who knew exactly what was coming. With a quick outfit change, she returned to the stage and turned up the heat with performances of “Burn It” and “Pygma Girl.” Despite not feeling her best, she gave each song her all. The crowd fed off her energy, dancing and cheering louder with every beat.
The shift into the “EVE-1” act began with another striking VCR. This time, the visuals followed the original EVE as her double life started to unravel—her soft, public persona cracking behind closed doors and ultimately leading to her demise. The story then jumped to the year 2044, where a more assertive clone, EVE-1, is introduced. BIBI returned to the stage transformed, opening this new act with a special EDM remix of “Sugar Rush” made exclusively for the tour. She carried the momentum into some powerful performances, including ones of “Hongdae R&B,” “Real Man,” “Meat,” and “Apocalypse.” As the VCR continued, we were shown how EVE-1 grew frustrated with being treated as nothing more than a replica, forever compared to someone she never chose to be. It isn’t until a person from EVE’s past reappears, suggesting the two were more alike than she wanted to believe, it pushes EVE-1 into a full identity crisis. These scenes were complemented with raw, emotional performances of “Winter (unreleased)” and “Bluebird,” deepening the emotional weight. As the final VCR played, the story closed with EVE-1 breaking the cycle and choosing a new destiny. The entire sequence was gripping—an artful blend of music, performance, and film that turned BIBI’s show into something genuinely unforgettable.
BIBI returned to the stage to a wave of applause and cheers. She took a moment to address the crowd with sincerity, explaining how the story of EVE, EVE-1, and their intertwined identities was meant to reflect the complicated journey of self-love and how we often lose ourselves trying to become who others expect us to be. She spoke about how important it was for her to bring this message to life, not just through music, but through visual storytelling that could connect on a deeper level. Then, without missing a beat, she said that EVE is gone and now she is BIBI. Instantly, the mood shifted as she exploded into a gritty, high-energy version of “BIBI Vengeance” and kept the momentum going with “BAD SAD AND MAD.”
Video Credit: Glenalyn Ann | Photo Credit: Feel Ghood Music / PARK JAEHYO
One of the most memorable parts of the night was BIBI’s fan interactions. She walked into the crowd during “City Love,” brought a fan onstage for “Best Lover,” and even conducted spontaneous interviews with audience members about their jobs, leading into “Fedexx Girl.” The unscripted moments showed her genuine love for her fans and her ability to connect with people on a personal level, even in a venue as large as the YouTube Theater.
The night began to wind down with an explosive closing run of “She Got It,” “The Weekend,” “KAZINO,” and her debut song, “비누 (BINU).” BIBI thanked her fans for coming and quickly left the stage. And just when the audience thought the night was over, BIBI’s voice echoed from backstage saying, “I wouldn’t leave you like that.” She returned for an encore with “PADO,” an unreleased song titled “Bumpa,” and finally, “Eat My Love.” As the last song played out and the lights dimmed, she waved goodbye while jokingly being pulled by staff off stage.
BIBI’s [EVE] tour was a visual album brought to life, a performance art piece, and an emotional exchange between an artist and her audience. With each song and story, she invited fans not just to listen, but to feel, reflect, and love. As BIBI continues to create waves in the music scene, there’s no doubt that BIBI is creating something unforgettable.
What’s your favorite BIBI track? Let us know by leaving a comment below or by reaching out on Instagram or X!
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Edited by Martina Yee
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