- Benson Boone surprised hundreds of elementary school students in Portland, Ore., by joining their “Bike Bus” commute to school.
- The “Beautiful Things” singer cycled with the children, sang his hit song with them, and stayed to sign autographs.
- The viral event was organized by Bike Bus, a community group that promotes active transportation for kids, which has also been joined by stars like Justin Timberlake.
- Co-founder Sam Balto praised Boone as “the kindest, most genuine individual” for the joy he brought to the community.
A ‘Beautiful’ Surprise for Young Fans
Pop star Benson Boone took a memorable break from his American Heart World Tour to create a core memory for hundreds of elementary school students in Portland, Oregon. On Friday, Oct. 3, the 23-year-old singer shocked kids by joining their morning “Bike Bus,” a group commute to school on bicycles, after fans flooded social media with requests for him to participate.
While in town for a show at the Moda Center, Boone traded his stage for a bicycle and rode alongside the ecstatic students. The highlight of the ride came when his chart-topping hit, “Beautiful Things,” played from a speaker, prompting a massive sing-along between the artist and his youngest fans.
An Unforgettable Community Moment
The event was more than just a brief appearance. Sam Balto, the co-founder of Bike Bus, documented the experience on social media and praised Boone for his genuine connection with the children.
“Benson Boone is the kindest, most genuine individual I have ever met,” Balto told Upworthy. “He was chatting with the kids, asking their name, answering questions, taking selfies and singing along with them.”
After the ride concluded, Boone stayed to sign hundreds of autographs, ensuring the students went home with an incredible story. Balto shared his gratitude on Instagram, writing, “@bensonboone you brought a lot of joy to our community.”
The Growing ‘Bike Bus’ Movement
The Bike Bus initiative has been gaining viral attention as a way to “transform the wellbeing of children, communities, and our climate, through biking together to school,” according to its official website. Boone isn’t the first major celebrity to join the ride. In January, Justin Timberlake also participated in a Portland Bike Bus, riding with students while his hit “Can’t Stop the Feeling” played in the background.
The official Bike Bus Instagram celebrated the “unforgettable afternoon,” thanking Boone and the fans who helped make it happen. “The energy, the smiles, and the singing made it a ride we’ll never forget.”