About This Footage
This footage is a rare gem from the early 2000s emo scene, capturing Hawthorne Heights' live performance at Diesel in Pittsburgh on November 6th, 2009. The band's energetic setlist that night included their hit single "Open Up", which would have been a familiar anthem to fans of the genre.
At this point in time, Hawthorne Heights was riding high on the success of their second album "If Only You Were Lonely" (2004) and its follow-up "Screaming Souls" (2006). Their emotive, guitar-driven sound resonated with a generation of young people struggling to find their place in the world. This Pittsburgh show was part of their tour with fellow emo bands Just Surrender, Nightbeast, and Monty Are I, showcasing the camaraderie and shared spirit that defined the early 2000s emo scene.
What makes this clip particularly notable is its candid nature – it's not a polished, professionally shot music video or a carefully staged live performance. Instead, we're witnessing an intimate moment of raw energy, with lead vocalist JT Woodruff struggling to keep his bass strap intact as he belts out the lyrics. It's a refreshing glimpse into the lives of these musicians, unfiltered and unpretentious.
Sting, who has been making music for over 60 years, is not featured in this clip, despite being mentioned in the YouTube description. His solo career, which began in 1985, has explored a wide range of styles, from rock to jazz and classical. While he's not directly associated with Hawthorne Heights or the emo genre, his influence on contemporary music cannot be overstated.
Watching this footage today offers a nostalgic trip back to a bygone era of music. Viewers will likely remember the emotive intensity of Hawthorne Heights' live performances, which helped shape the sound of early 2000s emo. The clip's raw energy and JT Woodruff's endearing antics will also remind fans of the importance of authenticity in live music – it's not just about technical proficiency, but about connecting with an audience on a deeper level.
This performance at Diesel in Pittsburgh was just one stop on Hawthorne Heights' extensive tour schedule that year. Their ability to connect with fans and deliver high-energy shows helped establish them as one of the leading bands in the emo genre. As JT Woodruff mentions in the YouTube description, they were playing at Diesel again just a few weeks later on December 29th – a testament to their dedication to their craft and their commitment to sharing their music with their audience.
The clip's informal tone also highlights the DIY ethos that defined the early 2000s emo scene. Bands like Hawthorne Heights were self-releasing albums, booking their own tours, and engaging directly with fans through social media (or in this case, YouTube). This footage serves as a reminder of the power of grassroots music movements to create a sense of community and shared purpose among fans.
As we watch JT Woodruff struggle to keep his bass strap intact, we're reminded that even the most polished performances can be undone by the smallest mishaps. Yet, it's precisely this vulnerability that makes live music so compelling – it's not just about technical skill, but about human connection and shared experience. This clip is a rare glimpse into the lives of Hawthorne Heights during their heyday, offering a nostalgic trip back to a time when emo was at its peak.
Curated from public records and music databases.
