Introduction
When Pink released her third studio album, Try This, in 2003, it was a bold declaration of her artistic evolution. Known for her unapologetic attitude and genre-defying sound, Pink pushed the boundaries even further with this album, blending pop-punk, rock, and alternative influences into a rebellious, edgy collection of tracks. The Try This tour that followed was more than just a series of concerts; it was a defining moment in Pink’s career, showcasing her transformation into a dynamic live performer who would go on to set new standards for the music industry.
This tour marked a key moment in Pink’s evolution, not just as a musician but as an entertainer who could command the stage with electrifying energy, daring stunts, and a connection with fans that was as genuine as it was intense. As we look back on the Try This tour, we see the blueprint of the larger-than-life performer Pink would become, a legacy that continues to inspire and awe audiences to this day.
1. Overview of the Try This Album
Try This dropped on November 11, 2003, and immediately set itself apart from the pop-heavy sound of Pink’s previous work. Following the massive success of her second album, Missundaztood, Pink found herself at a crossroads. Rather than sticking to the formula that had brought her widespread acclaim, she chose to collaborate with Tim Armstrong of Rancid, diving headfirst into a rawer, more rebellious sound that blended pop-punk with gritty rock and roll.
The album’s sonic landscape was a reflection of Pink’s desire to push her artistry to new heights. The tracks were infused with a punk rock edge, highlighted by Armstrong’s influence, which added a layer of authenticity to the album’s aggressive tones. The lead single, “Trouble,” set the tone with its rebellious lyrics and edgy guitar riffs, earning Pink a Grammy Award for Best Female Rock Vocal Performance. Other notable tracks, like “God Is a DJ” and “Last to Know,” further solidified the album’s eclectic and fearless nature.
Try This was not just an album; it was a statement. Pink was not interested in conforming to pop expectations. Instead, she embraced a sound that was distinctly her own, a bold move that resonated with fans and critics alike. While the album didn’t achieve the same commercial success as its predecessor, it was a critical success that showcased Pink’s versatility and commitment to artistic integrity.
2. The Try This Tour: A New Level of Energy
The Try This tour kicked off in Europe in November 2003 and ran through 2004, covering major cities across Europe, Australia, and North America. From the very first show, it was clear that this tour would be a high-octane affair, with Pink bringing an intensity to the stage that few could match.
Pink’s live performances have always been a spectacle, but the Try This tour took things to a new level. The stage design was a visual feast, featuring bold, industrial elements that mirrored the album’s gritty aesthetic. Costumes were equally striking, with Pink donning edgy outfits that emphasized her punk rock persona. The visual elements of the tour were not just for show; they were an integral part of the experience, creating an immersive environment that brought the album’s themes to life.
One of the most talked-about aspects of the Try This tour was Pink’s incorporation of acrobatics into her performances. Known for her athleticism and fearlessness, Pink took to the air with daring aerial stunts that left audiences breathless. These acrobatic elements became a signature of her live shows, setting a new standard for what it meant to put on a pop concert. It wasn’t just about singing and dancing; it was about creating a multi-sensory experience that pushed the boundaries of live performance.
From the energetic opening of “Trouble” to the euphoric “God Is a DJ,” Pink’s setlist was a rollercoaster of emotions, with each song bringing a new surge of energy. Her ability to switch from heart-pounding rock anthems to soulful ballads showcased her range as an artist and her deep connection with the audience.
3. Fan Reception and Critical Acclaim
The Try This tour was met with an overwhelmingly positive response from fans, many of whom were blown away by the intensity and creativity of Pink’s performances. Concertgoers praised her for her energy, her vocal prowess, and her ability to connect with the audience on a personal level. For many fans, the Try This tour was their first time seeing Pink live, and it left a lasting impression.
Critics also lauded the tour, with many noting that it solidified Pink’s reputation as a powerhouse performer. Reviewers highlighted her vocal range, her stage presence, and her willingness to take risks, both musically and physically. The tour was seen as a bold step forward in Pink’s career, one that showed she was not just a pop star but a true artist who was unafraid to push the envelope.
One of the most memorable moments of the tour came during Pink’s performance of “Last to Know,” where she soared above the crowd in a dramatic aerial display. The combination of the song’s emotional depth and Pink’s physical daring created a moment of pure theatricality that left audiences in awe. It was moments like these that set the Try This tour apart, making it more than just a series of concerts but a cultural event that resonated with fans long after the final note was played.
4. Legacy of the Try This Tour
The Try This tour was more than just a chapter in Pink’s career; it was a turning point that influenced everything that came after. The tour’s success proved that Pink was more than capable of holding her own as a live performer, paving the way for even more ambitious tours in the future. It was during this tour that Pink honed her skills as a live performer, developing the acrobatic feats and high-energy performances that would become hallmarks of her shows.
In the years following the Try This tour, Pink would go on to stage some of the most elaborate and visually stunning tours in pop music history. Each subsequent tour built upon the foundation laid during Try This, with Pink continuing to push the boundaries of what was possible in a live show. The tour also helped to shape Pink’s approach to her music, as she continued to embrace a diverse range of sounds and styles, never content to stay in one place for too long.
For fans, the Try This tour remains a beloved memory, a moment in time when Pink was still evolving as an artist but already showing glimpses of the superstar she would become. There is a certain nostalgia attached to the tour, a longing for the raw energy and unfiltered creativity that defined Pink’s early career. Many fans who attended the Try This tour still talk about it with a sense of reverence, recalling the thrill of seeing Pink at a pivotal moment in her journey.
Conclusion
Looking back, the Try This tour was a defining moment in Pink’s career, one that showcased her evolution as a performer and set the stage for everything that would come after. It was a tour that pushed the limits of what a pop concert could be, blending music, theater, and acrobatics into a spectacle that left audiences in awe. For Pink, it was a chance to prove herself as a live performer, and she rose to the occasion with a level of energy and creativity that few could match.
The legacy of the Try This tour can still be felt in Pink’s work today. The daring stunts, the high-energy performances, the emotional connection with fans—these are all elements that Pink continues to bring to her shows, each one a reminder of the journey she began with Try This. For those who were there, the tour is a cherished memory, a moment when Pink’s raw energy and rebellious spirit were on full display.
So, whether you’re a long-time fan or new to Pink’s music, take a moment to revisit the Try This album and relive the tour that helped to shape one of pop music’s most iconic performers. Listen to the album, watch the live performances, and let yourself be transported back to a time when Pink was still finding her voice but already showing the world what she was capable of. And if you were lucky enough to see the Try This tour in person, share your memories and keep the spirit of that incredible tour alive.
