Kehlani has proven time and time again that they are a force to be reckoned with, despite their laid-back and chill vibe. Their latest live performance is just another example. The Oakland native, who recently released their fourth studio album Crash, stopped by NPR Music’s infamous Tiny Desk Concert series and gave viewers a career-spanning setlist.
The first song of the performance, “Nights Like This” from 2019’s While We Wait, truly set the vibe. A more soulful, jazzy rendition than the original track, this version allowed listeners to feel the song on a deeper level. Kehlani’s passionate riffs and runs blended perfectly with the band as the background singers harmonized along with them. They greeted the audience as the band transitioned into the fan-favorite “Distraction.” Before closing out the song, Kehlani made it a medley by blending in “The Way,” one of the classics from their GRAMMY-nominated second mixtape You Should Be Here.
The band then continued to rock out, each instrumentalist having their own chance to shine, as the crowd cheered. Kehlani acknowledged their artistry, adding, “I wish I could do that!” The singer next performed “Can I” a hit from their second studio album It Was Good Until It Wasn’t. Cymbals and guitar led listeners back into an R&B and hip-hop kind of groove as Kehlani delivered the lyrics to the explicit song. Instead of singing, they almost rapped the verses before showing off their vocals on the hook with its sample of Aaliyah’s classic “Come Over.”
Before ending the concert, Kehlani took a minute to call for the end of occupation in not only Palestine but Sudan, Congo, Hawaii, Guam and Yemen. They encouraged the audience to use their voices and make a difference when and where they can.
“Any difference that you can make is appreciated. Wear your keffiyehs outside. Stop and shop at Palestinian businesses. Hire Palestinians, hire Congolese people, hire people from Sudan, send your money where it matters,” advised the singer who has been passionate about social justice throughout their career.
They closed their set with “After Hours,” which began with a Latin jazz groove before segueing into the claps heard in the original song. This version, while also different from the original, also didn’t seem too far off. It was still very danceable with its flirty, sing-along lyrics. At the end of the song, the band broke it down further and gave the song even more rhythm, making it almost hard not to move your body to the beat. Kehlani introduced the band and background singers as the band vamped and closed out the show.
Despite being nervous, which Kehlani admitted to towards the end of the concert, they still created a memorable performance for old and new fans alike. The vocals, the activism, the grace – it was almost effortless. Overall, this performance was just another reminder not to sleep on Kehlani’s talent. Although they just released Crash, they have a a new mixtape dropping before the Crash World Tour begins in the fall.
In the meantime, watch their Tiny Desk performance below.
- Advertisement -