From Sidewalk Chats to Stage Anthems: Daffo Opens for Illuminati Hotties in Portland, OR
Words and photos by Jenny Shackleton.
Last week at Mississippi Studios in Portland, Oregon, the crowd was treated to an electrifying performance by Daffo, who opened for the headlining act, Illuminati Hotties. The energy in the room was palpable as Daffo’s lead singer, Gabi, took the stage. With a mischievous grin, they asked the audience to bark for them, a playful command that the crowd eagerly obeyed, setting the tone for a night of high-energy music and fun.
Gabi’s stage presence was nothing short of captivating. Their bold fashion choice, with their G-string peeking out, added an edgy flair to their performance. But it wasn’t just their outfit that caught the audience’s attention. Gabi brought along a little doll from their music video, affectionately named “Little Gabi.” This quirky addition to the show added a personal touch, making fans feel even more connected to the artist.
Despite their dynamic performance, Gabi’s night at Mississippi Studios was cut short due to their age. Being under 21, they couldn’t stay inside the venue after their set. Instead, they took to the sidewalk outside, where they continued to engage with their fans. This unexpected twist didn’t dampen the spirits of Daffo supporters; if anything, it made the experience more intimate as they chatted with them in a more relaxed setting.
While Illuminati Hotties rocked the stage inside, Gabi’s presence outside created a unique dual experience for concert-goers. Their willingness to connect with fans, even from the sidewalk, showcased their dedication and genuine appreciation for their support. It was a night to remember, with Daffo leaving a lasting impression as an opening act that truly knows how to engage and entertain.
Illuminati Hotties
Jenny Shackleton (she/her) is a photographer based in Portland, OR, originally hailing from Philadelphia, PA. Her love for live music started over 15 years ago after seeing the Jonas Brothers perform on their Burning Up tour in 2008 and the rest is history. As a naturally shy person, it’s surprising she feels so comfortable at concerts with hundreds of people attending, but has always believed that they are special, somewhat liminal, spaces. Everyone is there for the same reason: to have the best night and see artists pour their souls’ onto the stage. That is what Jenny likes to capture in her photos. Jenny enjoys spending time outside with her partner and their dog, watching movies, and owning way too many sneakers.