Concert Review: Ro James Gives Permission To Love At Hammerstein

“New York City is a place filled with artists,” declared Ro James as he spoke about finding one’s identity. The irony of New York is that it is a place where artists flock to be themselves, but yet create art about how they cannot be. In New York, as in life, we realize that it is not people, places, or things that block us from being ourselves, although they can be hiccups. Instead, Ro James shows the only permission you need to be yourself is your own.

Firstly, let me say that Ro James’ voice is the equivalent to a skillet. He sizzles notes like a plate of Fajitas going across a restaurant; everyone hears, looks, and follows the crackling heat to see who chose such a meal. You may laugh at my comparison, but the way he sang tracks such as, “Excuse Me” and “Outside The Box,” you felt the fire emanating from within him. He has an innate passion within his voice and literal presence that, somehow, is filled with emotions but relaxingly radiates. It is as if he understands that feelings are like lions roaming within us; to try and conquer them could be dangerous and foolish in deterring their natural power. Instead, you have to understand that your heart is your king, and with that truth you can build your identity.
Ro James – Holy Water

It is amazing how empowering and purposeful Ro James is in concert. He takes the time to talk the crowd, and speak to the people as if we are all “one on one” with him at a coffee shop. He gives advice and real takes on what it is to love someone else, adore your work, and build yourself. Such wisdom and rawness echoes in songs like, “Permission,” which carry verses that feel like they could be found in Marvin Gaye, Jodeci, or Donny Hathaway’s catalogue. The way he grounds the care and chaos of trying to be yourself while being with someone else makes him more than a singer of romance. He is a singer to love.
Ro James – Permission

The reason people say love is work is not because you have to work with your lover as much as you have to work on yourself for your lover. If you truly want to be better for your partner or your dream then you have consistently grow up, which is why it makes sense that James’ voice and verses carry a weight of maturity; there is nothing like wanting to be with someone else to show you what you need to do for yourself. For More Information On Ro James Click Here.