CHICAGO — Kanye West’s listening experience for his new album “Donda” took place Thursday night at Soldier Field, but there were concerns about a lack of COVID-19 protocols.
Attendees needed tickets, but not proof of a COVID-19 vaccination or negative test.
The excitement for the Chicago native’s 10th studio album was mixed with some anxiety.
“Just being that close to people, we haven’t really been at a big event Michigan has been on lockdown too so this will be the first time I’ve been shoulder to shoulder with people since a few years ago,” fan Chris Champagne said.
No proof of vaccination was required, but 2,500 doses of Pfizer and Johnson and Johnson vaccines were available at a clinic set up inside Soldier Field. The Chicago Department of Public Health said about a dozen people took advantage of the clinic — and they were rewarded.
Those who got vaccinated were upgraded to VIP seats.
The large-scale event is taking place as health officials are investigating COVID-19 cases related to Market Days in Northalsted.
Earlier this month, authorities said that Lollapalooza did not become a super spreader event after 200 cases were reported among 400,000 attendees.