Australian singer and songwriter Sia started out as a more conventional performer in her native country, and as the lead singer for English band Zero 7 in the early 2000s. After releasing solo albums to limited commercial success, Sia shifted her focus to songwriting, and she quickly became one of the most in-demand writers in pop. Sia has written or co-written hits for artists like Katy Perry, Beyoncé, Britney Spears, Kelly Clarkson and many more, and her understanding of what makes a pop hit has helped her solo career take off in a completely new way.
The more famous Sia has become, though, the less interested she’s been in the kind of attention most pop stars get. She stays out of her music videos, instead putting the focus on people like dancer Maddie Ziegler, star of videos for Sia hits like “Chandelier” and the lead dancer on Sia’s current tour. Onstage, Sia remains in shadows, her trademark wig covering her face, as videos, dancers, lights and set design hold the audience’s attention. As a singer and songwriter, Sia is more famous than ever; as a celebrity, she’s firmly entrenched behind the scenes.
Mandalay Bay, 7 p.m. Oct. 7, $35-$149.50 plus tax and fee. 800.745.3000 Ticketmaster
