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NYC Phones Down: CORTIS & the First Solo Concert Moments

In under a year, CORTIS has built a truly impressive career, moving from clearing comfort on stage to shouting out New York’s NBA Finals win and capturing the attention of millions. Now, they are bringing that undeniable energy to the States with their first-ever solo concert in New York.

The show was more than just a performance; it was a celebration of an already stacked résumé. Before stepping onto the stage, the group brought with them a remarkable history, including reaching a No. 3 debut on the Billboard 200 chart, securing a spot on Billboard’s 21 Under 21 list, and contributing to hits like the GOAT soundtrack single. Their catalog is already rich with collaborations featuring artists like Juicy J and Teezo Touchdown.

On Thursday, August 6, the quintet—consisting of Martin, Juhoon, James, Seonghyeon, and Keonho—took the stage at the Infosys Theater at Madison Square Garden for their inaugural solo performance in the U.S. This sold-out event marked a major milestone for CORTIS, proving they can live up to their impressive trajectory while signaling greater promise for the exciting music yet to come.

The concert was split into two dynamic halves that offered something unique to the audience. The first half dove deep into the group’s extensive discography, utilizing impactful visuals and intricate choreography displayed across tall LED screens behind the performers. As the show transitioned, the second half revisited many of the same tracks, but with a looser, more intimate feel. The camerawork shifted focus, putting the spotlight squarely on the artists themselves, allowing the audience to connect directly with Martin, Juhoon, James, Seonghyeon, and Keonho.

This landmark New York event was part of the wider “Put Your Phone Down Tour,” which kicked off in July at the Inspire Arena in Incheon, South Korea. The NYC performance was one of seven North American shows across six cities, all of which sold out, solidifying CORTIS’ status as a major live act.

The energy radiating from Madison Square Garden confirmed that CORTIS is not just a group with impressive achievements, but a force ready to command the stage and captivate audiences with every note. The performance successfully bridged their celebrated past with an exciting future, setting a high bar for what the group will achieve next on the global music scene.