Not any and every artist can sell out the Jazz Cafe four nights in a row. Brian McKnight is one of those rare artists that can command a sizable crowd regardless of where he goes and his string of shows last weekend was no different.
From the very beginning, McKnight made his presence felt as he strutted onto the stage singing a pitch perfect version of Should Have Been Lovin’ You. Not only did McKnight remind us that he is a formidable vocalist, he also proved that he was quite the comedian as he pulled funny faces whilst singing, told hilarious stories about his childhood and expressed his fear of erectile dysfunction. McKnight showed a sincere appreciation of the past when he sang piano backed renditions of classics by Nat King Cole, Jeffery Osborne, Stevie Wonder, Luther Vandross and Michael Jackson.
What was even more impressive was how he altered his voice to actually sound like the artist he was paying tribute to. If you had closed your eyes, you would be forgiven for thinking that all of the aforementioned legends were doing a one night only show together. With no band or supporting vocalists, McKnight reinforced that fact that he is the consummate showman and performer. He sang flawless performances of his previous hits such as Anytime, Back At One, Can You Read My Mind, Home and 6, 8, 12.
In an impressive display of vocal acrobatics, McKnight sang a falsetto note whilst sat behind is trusty electric piano, then decided to get up and walk across the stage whilst still singing the same note, sit behind his grand piano and continue with singing the same song. My jaw dropped in amazement due to the fact I have never seen anything like that before and doubt I ever will again.
In closing, this was a truly incredible experience and I am truly glad to say that I was in attendance. McKnight didn’t need any hyperbole or bells and whistles; all he needed was a piano, a guitar and that voice which sounded even better on this night than any record I’ve ever heard him on. Whenever he decides to pay these shores another visit, I will definitely be there.
