Spilled lemonade and Tito’s vodka christened the floor of the Hollywood Palladium this past Monday night as Colombian-Canadian songstress, Jessie Reyez gifted fans with her insatiable voice and vibes.
There aren’t too many artists currently that can sell out the Palladium and have fans singing every English and Spanish song on the setlist. That’s a commendable accomplishment. And while Jessie is too humble to say it, let me tell you, she deserves the recognition.
“This shit is a motherfucking singalong” – Jessie
Jessie Reyez, is in a new era of her life as she embarks on the “Yessie” tour promoting her latest R&B album. Reyez wants everything to be condensed and concise. While creating her set list, she kept that in mind, making sure nobody would go home thinking “damn that was longass show.”
It’s been 4 years since Reyez has been in L.A. and she’s grateful for everyone. For the ones that thugged it out to get to the front, those that were playing and sharing her music when nobody knew her. As a thank you, she played“Gatekeeper” for her riders. The crowd continued to erupt into screams of joy.
From beginning to end, the atmosphere was as beautiful and vibrant as Reyez prancing around the stage telling sonic stories as her curls flowed freely.
Before the show, I spoke to fans about their love for Reyez as they showed me their VIP badges and newest merch purchase. With glowing admiration in their eyes, each person asked me to tell her they loved her. A family that traveled from downtown Los Angeles shared with me that this is their 12-year-old son’s first concert and he fell in love with her voice through his mom.
These are the stories that make concerts so special. Artists have an ability to bring people together. They are the soundtracks to all of our lives. Emotions were running high when Reyez told the crowd that her mom is usually on the road with her but she’s keeping her safe from Covid before starting “Sola.”
Before closing with “Figures,” Reyez said:
“If you have your voice tomorrow you failed.” Well Jessie I don’t have my voice right now so I guess I am a winner.
Give Jessie her flowers. She’s one of the most unique and engaging voices of the newer generation. If you haven’t tuned in, you’re missing out.
Photos & Words by Asha Moné
