Concert Review: Andra Day Shows Why We Need Vocal Divas
There are certain artists that the radio does not do proper justice. For some reason, their talent and presence is better exemplified in concert. Andra Day is a perfect example of why live music exists and how some artists shine better on the stage.
Live music shows Andra’s range perfectly because, unlike an album, she is feeling the moment to feed her performance. She is a “storyteller” songstress in that she acts out her songs and adds a range of notes to bring out their multiple messages like, Whitney Houston. I know the comparison is hefty, but it is completely earned once you see her. Witnessing her ability to add vocal layers to a standard song makes you understand why people are attracted to such divas like, Whitney or Mariah Carey. These women were born with a voice that gracefully emotes human spirit. They do not even need lyrics. All they need to do is hum a melody, and somehow your mind feels and receives their wordless song as a personal message. Andra has that gift, but she also has the power to take a song and heighten its details.
Andra Day – Forever Mine [Official Music Video]
I had not realized how sad some of Andra’s songs were until her live performance. Again, she uses her vocal range and compelling presence to make sure you really listen. Red Flags, a beautiful song on love’s blindness, felt like an extravagant opus when sung live compared to its lighter feeling radio edit. On the album, the song comes off like a fun dance mix, while, live, it becomes a beautiful rendition on how ignoring a relationship’s warnings can be more hurtful than confronting them. The fact that the album made me want to dance while her heartfelt performance made me want to cry showed me that Andra’s range is in both voice and emotion. Hence, her live performance reveals how insightful her music is and makes you see that behind the great beats and sparkling voice is a heart full of pain.
Andra Day – Rise Up [Official Music Video] [Inspiration Version]
Everyone loves a good, sad song. We all are guilty of listening to a tearful rendition, and many artists have made successful careers from music that can make you cry (i.e. Elton John and Adele). When you listen to their heartbreak it is as if you have found an emotional twin, who reflects back the same depression you have felt or are feeling. Andra Day has perfected the sad song. Although I love her powerhouse ballads and modern, jukebox jams, it is when she is soft and striking celestial chords that her voice shows its angelic nature. When she is simply sitting by the piano, she exudes a quiet vulnerability that everyone can relate and be attracted to. It was in those intimate moments between her and the piano that her star truly shined. For More Information On Andra Day Click Here.
