At only 21 years old, London-based retro-modern performer Sekou is bringing retro, rich, soul vocals back.
Originally from Leicestershire, Sekou is currently on his first headline UK/EU tour, but performs as if he is on stage with the 1970s legends who came before him.
Attending his biggest headline show to date in EartH in Hackney this month, it was impossible not to becpme enamoured by the show, the dance moves, and the full range of vocals he projects.
There was already a queue forming round the block for the sold-out show on arrival at the seemingly unassuming venue in Dalston.
And, inside, the 1930s cinema now performance theatre is an artwork in itself.
The ‘arrested decay’ style of the theatre, accompanied by the steep standing area which led straight to the decked out stage, enhanced the experience to come and instantly immersed me in what felt like a step back in time.
Supporting Sekou was 19-year-old vocal powerhouse, Mulaa Joans. Reminiscent of Sienna Spiro, she filled the space and left the audience in awe with raw vocals and lyrics that told personal stories.
After some minor tech issues, which only made the buzz in the audience rise, Sekou stepped into centre stage with Never Gunna Give You Up.
Wearing an all black outfit, accompanied by gold jewellery and a pair of ’70s black heeled shoes, he grooved through Dangerous Lover and Catching Bodies amidst sentimental soul ballads like Better Man and Too Young.
He was joined on stage by a three-piece horn section, alongside a drummer, bass, and a keyboard player, who brought both the two-step vibes and the room to life.
Enthused about his inspirations, including Beyonce and Arethra Franklin, Sekou performed a cover of Chaka Khan’s Aint Nobody paired with the velvety vocals of backing singers, which sent the audience into a frenzy of joy.
And love filled the room as Sekou announced a proposal on stage that got the tears flowing, followed by a directed rendition of Fleetwood Mac’s Songbird, further enhancing the 1970s feel.
Sekou finished the show in perfect funky fashion, performing About Last Night, encouraging those in attendance to join in, and ending in a jaw-dropping jump into a split. As expected, the crowd went wild.
I couldn’t help but to leave full of pride amongst others marvelling about the star who had just left the stage, bursting at the seams with talent.
Sekou created an atmosphere of togetherness and joy which has stayed with me ever since.
I believe Sekou is the modern answer to soul and R&B music, at such a young age he has taken the world by storm, and is hoping to return even bigger and better next year, and I hope you will be watching with me.
All images: Lizzie Bradley
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