Daniel Caesar’s Surprise Concert Thrills Fans in Bozeman

BOZEMAN, Mont. — Canadian singer-songwriter Daniel Caesar thrilled fans with a surprise pop-up concert in Bozeman on Thursday night. The event attracted hundreds of people after being announced just hours prior on Instagram.

Students from Montana State University (MSU) expressed their excitement about the unexpected performance. “I saw it on Instagram in the morning and I thought it was a joke,” said MSU student Cooper. “I didn’t believe it because it was just so random.”

The free concert took place at a private property off Rocky Creek Road, drawing attendees from across Montana, including many from Butte. “Especially from my hometown — I’m from Butte — so I saw a lot of people who drove over here for it,” said Jordan, another MSU student.

Caesar previously performed in Vancouver, and students were eager to show their support by attending the concert. Cooper and his girlfriend, Julia, even skipped class to be there. “It was fun. One of those moments where you’re standing in the rain listening to Daniel Caesar at this random horse ranch, trying not to step in horse poop,” Julia shared.

The turnout surprised many, with Cooper noting, “I was honestly astonished because he fills stadiums and performs with huge people like Tyler, the Creator.” Julia mentioned that Caesar remarked at the end that this was the biggest pop-up concert he has had.

Local authorities, however, raised safety concerns about the event. Sheriff Dan Springer of the Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office said, “It’s a free-for-all. It’s a lack of planning. It causes problems.” He reported issues such as blocked driveways and overcrowding on the highway, leading to complaints from the railroad about approximately 1,000 attendees on the tracks.

Springer emphasized the potential hazards, stating, “It seems like fun and games until someone gets hit on the highway. Or if there’s an emergency and we can’t get fire trucks or an ambulance through.”

In light of the chaotic turnout, Springer suggested that future events should involve better communication with local law enforcement. “I think the police department and I are going to have to sit down and talk about how we’re going to handle these things going forward,” he said.

Cooper and Julia both expressed hope that more major artists will visit their area. “So many big artists don’t come anywhere close to here — the closest they usually get is Minneapolis or Salt Lake,” Julia noted.

“I just think it’s cool that he came to Bozeman of all places,” Cooper added.