The Plain White T's took the stage at Epcot's Flower and Garden Festival for a magical performance filled with their hit songs. The Chicago-based band opened with their breakout 2005 track "Hey There Delilah," transporting the crowd back to a simpler time. Lead singer Tom Higgenson penned the Grammy-nominated song in 2006 for his then-longtime girlfriend and member of the band, Delilah DiCrescenzo. Their sweet long-distance courtship inspired the lyrics, "A thousand miles seems pretty far, but they've got planes and trains and cars, I'd walk to you if I had no other way."
Although the pair split in 2008 after a seven-year relationship, the song remains a heartfelt love letter. It also catapulted The Plain White T's into mainstream success. In 2007, "Hey There Delilah" topped the charts in the US, UK and Canada, making it the third-most digitally downloaded song behind Rihanna and Beyoncé. Its widespread popularity secured the band opening slots for rock legends like The Rolling Stones and Aerosmith.
At Epcot, Higgenson's smooth vocals and the group's infectious energy transported fans back to the 2000s pop-punk era. The Plain White T's followed up "Delilah" with other nostalgic hits like "1, 2, 3, 4" and "Rhythm of Love." Their setlist also included fan favorites "Revenge" and "Take Me Away." Through it all, Higgenson kept the crowd engaged with witty banter and enthusiastic showmanship.
This special Epcot concert let the Plain White T's reconnect with fans who've loved their music for nearly two decades. The band's sincere lyrics and melodic hooks make their songs timeless. Their tracks dominated the radio during younger years but remain relevant today. Seeing "Delilah" performed live was a magical moment that concertgoers won't soon forget. The Plain White T's may have written their breakout track back in 2006, but in 2023, it still tugs at heartstrings. Their enduring appeal is a testament to the band's skilled songwriting and musicianship.
