On Friday night, a mass crowd anxiously waited to get into the Coors Light Birds Nest at the Waste Management Phoenix Open in Scottsdale. Security was at its peak with patrolling police officers and attendees passing through metal detectors. Intel Corporation even set up its own line into the event for certain affiliates.
The Birds Nest ran Feb. 1 to Feb. 4 with an opening night performance by Slightly Stoopid. The Goo Goo Dolls took the stage Thursday and Flashback Heart Attack on Saturday.
Will call was flooded with lines of people trying to grab their reserved tickets. The lucky few who managed to obtain VIP access, were treated with a hosted bar, catered buffet and a separate entrance to the Birds Nest with an advantageous top-view just east of the main stage.
Dos Gringos and Tom’s Tavern located in the main courtyard hosted the bars and food. Inside the tent were several bar booths to keep the drinks flowing for guests.
Will.i.am was the feature guest for Friday night's performance. Before he began, attendees enjoyed the openers The Chadwicks, Kelley James and DJ Roonie G.
James particularly delighted Arizona residents after he sung a college-themed song giving a shout out to ASU. The audience did not hesitate for a second to sing along with his cover of "Sweet Caroline" by Neil Diamond.
The crowd's hype intensified when Will.i.am appeared on stage shortly after 8 p.m.
The Black Eyed Peas member performed a DJ set that included his new single "T.H.E."
His performance not only showcased his lyrical flair, but also his turntable savvy. Other hits he performed included Fergie’s "Fergalicious" and the Black Eyed Peas’ "I Gotta Feeling."
The crowd appeared slightly let down after Will.i.am primarily DJed the set instead of singing. Yet overall, the crowd left satisfied.
Come nightfall, free shuttles escorted guests to parking areas and surrounding bars. People cleared out at the end of the performance around 10:30 p.m.
The popularity of the 21-and-over event proved to be a success for Valley residents and visitors.
Reach the reporter at cstarboa@asu.edu
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