Billie Eilish showcased every song from her new album ‘Hit Me Hard and Soft‘ for the very first time during a special listening party in New York City on Wednesday night, May 15.
American Express hosted the exciting celebration held at Brooklyn’s Barclays Center where over 15,000 lucky fans were the first to hear the new tracks while watching Eilish in person groove to her new music from her highly anticipated album and ahead of its May 17 release date.
By Shervin Lainez. American Express Presents Billie Eilish’s Pre-Release “Hit Me Hard and Soft” Album Listening Event in at Barclays Center NYC
As Eilish—casually dressed in a long shirt, baggy shorts and a hat—walked onto the floor of the arena that was set up with no stage and just an open space with ‘Hit Me Hard and Soft’ etched onto the ground, she told the audience: “I could shit myself right now! Do we wanna hear something? Alright, dudes, so I’m gonna play you the entire album—front to back—and I’m not gonna pause it in the middle, and I’m not gonna talk.” The Grammy and Oscar winner continued, “Well, I don’t know. Maybe I will. But I’m trying not to talk. I’m doing my best.”
Throughout the listening party, an exuberant Eilish ran around the arena dancing uninhibited to a series of songs that included “BIRDS OF A FEATHER,” “LUNCH” and “BLUE,” while her brother Finneas closely followed her with a video camera to document the thrilling night. Eilish even met with her fans, who scored free tickets to the event, by greeting them with high-fives as she ran past the seating area of Barclays Center.
‘Hit Me Hard and Soft’ marks Eilish’s third studio album, arriving nearly three years after her very successful record Happier Than Ever. American Express will host another album listening party for Eilish in Los Angeles on May 16 at the Kia Forum.
Photo by Shervin Lainez. American Express Presents Billie Eilish’s Pre-Release “Hit Me Hard and Soft” Album Listening Event in at Barclays Center NYC
To celebrate the launch of ‘Hit Me Hard and Soft’ at Barclays Center, American Express card members had access to exclusive on-site benefits, including access to the party an hour early before the general public—allowing fans first access to the Eilish merch. An appealing assortment of styles of t-shirts and sweaters were available to purchase. The highly coveted item was the exclusive maroon, zip up, hooded sweatshirt that read ‘Hit Me Hard and Soft’ on the front, which was only sold to American Express card members.
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – MAY 15: American Express presents Billie Eilish’s Pre-Release “Hit Me Hard and Soft” Album Listening Event in New York City at Barclays Center on May 15, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by Theo Wargo/Getty Images for American Express)
Also, only Amex card members received a special Eilish poster (below image) as a gift with purchase. The poster was a big hit with many members and the perfect souvenir to take home.
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – MAY 15: American Express presents Billie Eilish’s Pre-Release “Hit Me Hard and Soft” Album Listening Event in New York City at Barclays Center on May 15, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by Theo Wargo/Getty Images for American Express)
Another perk offered at the party was access to a checkout-free shop for American Express Card Members where buying a variety of snacks, beverages and merchandise was extremely quick and easy. Fans got to avoid the long lines and were able to get to their seats with more ease and see Eilish showcase her new music.
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – MAY 15: American Express presents Billie Eilish’s Pre-Release “Hit Me Hard and Soft” Album Listening Event in New York City at Barclays Center on May 15, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by Theo Wargo/Getty Images for American Express)
Thanks to American Express, the Eilish listening party was unforgettable and filled with great food, merch and music.
