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Grammys Deliver Legend at Chicago Tour Opener |
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Written by MATTHEW LAMBERT / Photos by LYLE A. WAISMAN
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Wednesday, 09 April 2008 |
With a talent like John Legend playing in Chicago, it’s hard to believe he would be playing at a small venue such as the Vic Theater. For a guy who has won five Grammys and sold millions of records, a larger arena would have seemed more suited; more seats to fill, bigger productions and more stage room to accompany him and the large band behind him. Nevertheless, Legend and the band didn’t seem to be bothered by the smaller arena and put on a hour-long set which took the crowd through some of his well-known hits as well as a few new songs. Also, with the 50th Grammy Celebration Concert Tour, presented by T Mobile Sidekick, aiming to provide an intimate experience between the artist and the fans, it seemed to satisfy the capacity-filled crowd.
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50th Grammy Celebration Concert Tour
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 Entertainment
 Art
Vic Theater
Chicago, Ill.
April 03, 2008
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Colbie Caillat opened the show and played through a small set. The show, which started at 8, still had about a hundred fans waiting out on the street. These fans missed most of Caillat’s set and some were left wondering who she was once they finally made it inside. I’m not sure what the holdup was, but the fans who made it inside in time perked up once they heard Caillat’s hit, “Bubbly”. Caillat’s performance drew a mild cheer from the audience, most of whom seemed to be waiting for the headline act as they texted on their phones and talked with friends or enjoyed the mini-hamburgers in the VIP section.
Unfortunately, Cat Powers set didn’t seem to make up for those who missed the first hour of the show. While she and the band played fine, they seemed uninspired and bored up on stage. Between Power’s awkward dancing and random shouts of “Chicago!” there didn’t seem to be much enthusiasm from the band or the audience. While the hardcore fans where thrilled to see her perform, the rest of the audience only seemed to engage in the obligatory clapping and cheering at the end of her set. Nothing really stood out with her performance, and the band seemed happy to get off the stage.
John Legend and the large band took the stage at 11 p.m., and the audience perked up and shouted for Legend to come out as the band took their positions. They launched into a great performance with “Heaven”. Legend, dressed in black pants, leather jacket and tie over a white dress shirt, immediately captured the audience’s attention with his soulful voice and captivating stage presence. He encouraged the audience to sing along and he clapped along with the equally enthusiastic band behind him. The familiar intro to Save Room, off of 2006’s Once Again album, three songs into the set was a welcoming surprise and drew a pop from the audience. Usually you have to wait until the end of the show to hear the most popular hits. The audience sang along with a raising performance of “I Can Change”. With “Slow Dance”, Legend pulled one very happy female fan upstage to dance with him throughout the song. Legend proceeded to take off his tie and unbutton his shirt, drawing cheers from the ladies in the audience, and he smiled as the female fan hugged him.
When the band left the stage, Legend sat down at his piano and played a new song called “Good Morning”. Legend’s confident stage presence brought cheers from the audience as he teased them with an extended version of “P.D.A. (We Just Don’t Care)” before leaving the stage around midnight. Legend and the band’s uplifting performance, while short, made up for the out of place opening acts. |
Nikki
Written by Guest on 2008-04-09 11:00:58
I enjoyed John Legend, not so much Cat Powers (especially with her random, "Chicago..Chicago" or the occasional outburst "I love my mother") , you described the night perfectly as I remember it. John Legend's new song, "Good Morning" is beautiful, I was glad to hear that. I especially love the "Dance to the Music" part when he came out to the audience, the whole building were on their feet. I've been to a lot of John Legend shows and I appreciate these smaller venues more, it feels more up close and personal. His energy is amazing. I got his live DVD that hit stores yesterday so I can see a John Legend concert whenever I want now. :-) | Nikki
Written by publisher on 2008-04-11 01:50:47
So glad you enjoyed our review and the show. It was truly a magic night and show.I did actually really enjoy Cat Power. I think part of Cat Power is to see who she once was..to see where she is now. She's unusual for sure but I think she's a huge talent that if you gave her a chance you'd understand, appreciate and love!! Thanks for reading. |
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