From Netflix’s Building The Band to center stage of The Underground in Charlotte on their 2026 World Tour, Midnight Til Morning and Alex Porat did something incredible for their first time in the city: exceeded my expectations. The night for the band was the perfect mix of back flips, upcoming music, and chaos (the good kind, of course.)
Opening for Midnight Til Morning, Porat brought her pop star energy, setting the stage for the night, and a wave of nostalgia washed over me. Her set reminded me of simpler times, when we would tune into Disney Channel, and await the premiere of a new Hannah Montana or Vanessa Hudgens music video. Every song was special, and made me want to dance, which I did.
For Midnight Til Morning, I can honestly say this: the talent and charisma that the band had on Building The Band has manifested into something even greater. From start to finish, their shared dream of performing and inspiring others, as well as the friendship they had formed on the show, radiated throughout the audience. Aside from the songs that Midnight Til Morning has released, hearing the stories behind some of their unreleased music deeply moved me and made me want to sing along with them. After each song, I immediately thought, “When will these songs come out?”
In the middle of their show, the band performed a bittersweet cover of “Midnight,” as a tribute to the late former One Direction member, Liam Payne. As someone who is a Directioner themselves, I was completely touched by their tribute.
Before his untimely passing, Payne served as a mentor to the contestants of Building The Band, including Midnight Til Morning. Upon their elimination, Payne had shared encouraging words with the boys.
“One Direction came third,” Payne had said. “People thought we won! We didn’t win, but we didn’t lose.”
Though Midnight Til Morning may not have won Building The Band, they definitely won a whole lot more – the hearts of fans from around the world, including the ones in Charlotte. Mine included. And while saying their goodbyes to the city, the band shared one last message.
“We want everyone to feel welcome, safe, and comfortable because we love you,” said Conor Smith.
Midnight Til Morning’s World Tour continues through May across three continents, so you still have time to grab a ticket.
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