Legends.
That’s the only word that came to mind after 2NE1’s “Welcome Back” concert in Singapore.
As a Blackjack (2NE1’s official fanclub) for 14 years, missing the chance to see 2NE1 during their “All Or Nothing” tour in 2014 has always been a big regret. But “Welcome Back” felt like a warm hug, a long-overdue reunion with a group I’ve admired for so long. Seeing 2NE1 live for the first time after years of waiting was nothing short of spectacular.
One thing became clear last Saturday night—Singapore loves 2NE1. Unlike many concerts I’ve attended, where younger fans dominate the crowd, this audience was diverse. There was a mix of genders and noticeably older attendees, a testament to 2NE1’s timeless appeal. The demand was so overwhelming that a second show had to be added after the first sold out instantly.
The setlist was everything a Blackjack could hope for. From the very first beat of “Fire”, the energy in the hall was electric. Of course mega-hits like “Fire,” “I Am the Best,” “Clap Your Hands,” and “Ugly”, can’t be missed. 2NE1 knew what Blackjacks wanted.
Not only that, no signature dance or detail from back in the day was spared. From their heartbreak hand sign during the ending of “Go Away”, to Minzy sporting her iconic short bob from her early days, to CL shouting “Minzy” before Minzy’s verse in “Fire”, it all brought back waves of nostalgia.
Park Bom stunned the crowd with her cute charms and strong vocals. Minzy electrified the stage with her incredible dance moves, and CL was charismatic and magnetic during her solo, “The Baddest Female” and “MTBD”, leaving Blackjacks spellbound.
Dara delighted local Blackjacks, creating a warm and nostalgic connection as she fondly reminisced about her past visits to Singapore. She talked about going to Universal Studios Singapore, Sentosa, and a past event at Clarke Quay. She even remembered being an ambassador for the local telecom brand, Singtel, adding a playful touch with, “Singtel, if you want to hire us again, call me!”.
As the concert was just five days before Christmas, 2NE1 also gave Singapore a special gift: a festive surprise performance of Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas Is You.” It added a heartwarming touch to an already unforgettable night.
One of the most memorable aspects of this concert was how most fans weren’t glued to their phones. Instead, Blackjacks were fully engaged, savouring every moment. Even CL encouraged the crowd, “Dance more, no phones! Don’t regret this moment”, perhaps aware of how long Singapore had waited for 2NE1’s return.
2NE1’s “point dances” stood as a tribute to their golden era. Seeing the crowd raise their hands for “Fire”, do the dougie during “I Am The Best”, and clap along to “I Don’t Care” is a reminder of how dances were easy to follow and catchy for everyone back then. During “Ugly” in particular, the entire hall erupted in unison, singing along at the top of their lungs.
It might have been the older demographic of attendees, but the atmosphere felt like a nod to the simplicity of the 2nd-gen K-pop era, where almost no one was holding handmade signs to catch the group’s attention, unlike at concerts these days.
Though just two hours long, “Welcome Back” was packed with unforgettable moments. More than a concert, it celebrated 2NE1’s legacy over the last 15 years.
With electrifying performances and heartfelt connections, they proved their irreplaceable place in K-pop. And for Singapore Blackjacks, “Welcome Back” is a reminder of why we fell in love with 2NE1 years ago.
(Images via Live Nation Entertainment Singapore, Olethea (Seoulbeats).)
