PHOTOS BY: DE’ANDRE SILAS

Houston was more than ready for a night of music and memories, and the Into the Wild Tour delivered. With Sabrina Claudio, Big Sean, and Russ on the lineup, the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion became the ultimate summer escape. It was one of those hot Texas nights where the humidity wrapped around you, but instead of slowing anyone down, it only fueled the energy. The crowd was drenched in both sweat and excitement, and each artist brought their own version of fire that made the night feel like a party under the stars.

Sabrina Claudio set the tone with her signature blend of softness and strength. She floated through her set with elegance, delivering tracks that reminded fans why her voice is so hypnotic. “Confidently Lost” had the audience swaying with her, and she closed out with a brand new song that left fans craving more. Sabrina’s big personality paired with her big vocals made it clear she can command a stage no matter who follows her.

Big Sean was next and he wasted no time in switching up the vibe. He hit the stage literally jumping alongside his dad, kicking off with “Paradise” and charging the crowd with his energy. From there, it was a nostalgic trip through some of his biggest hits. “Mercy,” “Clique,” “I Know,” the “Don’t Like” remix, “Dance,” and “Big Bank” all sent the Pavilion into chaos in the best way. The audience rapped every lyric like it was 2012 again. Between songs, Sean opened up about how Houston has been a part of his journey since 2010 when he was on his “Finally Famous” mixtape grind. He told fans he is working on a new album, even admitting he recorded a song backstage before the show, and teased that he wants Houston artists like Don Toliver or Travis Scott on it. In a lighter moment, he laughed and said not to judge him for the songs where he sings, because he knows he is not a singer but he still tries. The most touching moment came when he dedicated “One Man Can Change the World” to his late grandmother, the woman who gave him the phrase that inspired the song. He closed his set with gratitude, thanking his fans for giving him the longevity that has kept him in the game.

Then it was Russ’s turn to take over. The anticipation was electric, and when the lights dropped, the crowd lit up the Pavilion with hundreds of raised phones. Russ appeared on an elevated platform, immediately taking control of the stage. His setlist was stacked with fan favorites including “Losin Control,” “Wife You Up,” “Me You,” “Ain’t Nobody Takin My Baby,” “Never Again,” and “Miss You Crazy.” Every song had the audience screaming every lyric back at him word for word. At one point, he even showed love to Houston’s Hispanic community, telling the crowd that 90 percent of his catalog is written about Hispanic women.

Russ kept adding layers to the performance with songs that showcased his versatility. He surprised the audience with “Summer at 7” and gave Houston something special by performing “SMALL TALK” live for the first time on this tour. His artistry was on full display, reminding everyone that he is a double threat who can both sing with soul and rap with precision. That unique mix is what sets him apart in a sea of artists.

Even in the sweltering heat, Russ’s connection with the crowd never wavered. He worked the stage with ease, made the Pavilion feel intimate, and gave fans a performance that felt as personal as it was powerful. By the end of the night, it was more than just a concert. It was nostalgia, fresh energy, and pure artistry rolled into one unforgettable evening.

The Into the Wild Tour did not just bring star power to Houston. It brought moments people will replay in their heads for years to come.