Mariah Carey, Pitbull Headline Sold-Out Fridayz Live Festival in Brisbane

The Fridayz Live festival at Brisbane Showgrounds featured headliners Pitbull and Mariah Carey, drawing a diverse and energetic crowd, including many festivalgoers dressed as Pitbull in suits, bald caps, and soul patches, creating a unique gender-subverting drag king atmosphere. Pitbull delivered a high-energy set with hits from 2012, energizing the crowd despite logistical challenges like long bar queues. Mariah Carey’s performance received mixed reactions, with some criticizing her lack of onstage energy, though fans noted her chronic fibromyalgia and her focus on vocal performance over movement. Earlier acts like Jordin Sparks, Tinie Tempah, and EVE also impressed with strong vocal and stage presence, contributing to the festival's varied musical showcase. The scheduling of Carey after Pitbull highlighted the contrast between their styles, with Pitbull's dynamic energy setting a high bar. Overall, the festival blended nostalgia, vocal talent, and audience engagement, though it challenged expectations regarding stage dynamics and artist stamina.