On August 6, 2025, Michael Clifford went on a SIDEQUEST to bring to life his latest album, performing it live at The Fonda Theatre! This was the only SIDEQUEST show, making Los Angeles the sole city to experience Michael Clifford’s solo live. Fans traveled from across the country for the rare chance to see Michael’s SIDEQUEST come to life! From the moment fans stepped inside, the space felt like a living extension of the album, with plush hearts, pastel butterflies, and inflatable logo balls filling the lobby alongside fun photo opportunities, including a stuffed animal-covered mirror. The playful atmosphere set the tone for a night! The show opened with a retro video-game intro, showing us Michael as a pixelated hero on his “side quest” before he stepped into the spotlight and onstage.
Michel’s song “Thirsty” emerged as one of the night’s most electrifying moments, Michael’s amazing vocals were backed by an audience singing every word. Special guests added to the magic, his opener Ryan Hall joined Michael for a raw rendition of “if i had a choice,” and the crowd’s energy hit its peak when Awsten Knight of Waterparks bounded onto the stage for “give me a break,” the two musicians feeding off each other’s playful and charismatic energy.
In between songs, he spoke openly about self-worth, creative uncertainty, fatherhood, and working hard to bring SIDEQUEST to life. He thanked his band, his wife, and even friends like Porter Robinson, who couldn’t be there but sent his support. The performance felt deeply personal yet universally relatable, turning a concert into a shared passionate experience between him and his fans.
Michael Clifford’s SIDEQUEST show at The Fonda was more than just a live performance; it was an invitation into his creative world, filled with nostalgia, honesty, and moments of pure happiness. For the fans who filled the theatre, it wasn’t just another night out; it was a once-in-a-lifetime chapter in Michael Clifford’s journey! What a special night for Michael and his fans. We can’t wait to see more from Michael Clifford!
MICHAEL CLIFFORD
Photos + Review by Natasha Agharabi | Exclusively for Music, Why Not!
