Boston Joined Raye's Cool Cats

Generational vocalist and multi-hyphenate talent Raye stopped by Boston on This Tour May Contain New Music on April 20th in support of her new album This Music May Contain Hope. It may have been Marathon Monday in the city, but the singer and her two sisters had everyone racing to MGM Music Hall for the very sold-out show. Fans in Raye's signature shade of red and glittery dresses flooded the venue at doors.

First up was Amma, who strutted out in a sequined white floral dress and kicked off the night with overflowing charm. Tracks like "Killing Cupid" off her latest EP, Middle Child, entranced the crowd. She paused between songs to share the inspiration behind her powerful ballads and bond with the audience. She urged everyone to "get out of your comfort zone" and to take "30 seconds to just say hi to the person next to you cause you're going to be with them for a long time today." Amma was full of sage advice and fun techniques for daily life. She acknowledged her tendency to apologize and revealed that she now says "oh lala" instead, a fun idea that the audience tested out in unison. During the song "Talking To Jesus," she got emotional when everyone waved their phone lights. Toward the end of her set, she delivered a stunning cover of "The Climb" by Miley Cyrus, uniting the crowd in a moment of strength and hope. She closed out her set strongly, belting high notes effortlessly.

Next up was Absolutely, who was returning to the city after opening for BANKS last year across the street. She floated on stage in a maroon and purple velvet dress fashioned with statement buttons. Her outfit perfectly complemented her curio-cabinet-style mic and stand adorned with gems, jewels, beads, and glitter. Tracks like "No Furniture" and a heartfelt cover of "I Have a Dream" by Abba entranced the crowd.

She spoke about how excited she was to have her new album Paracosm out in the world, a declaration that Boston met with cheers. Fans came bearing gifts, causing Absolutley to blush as fans passed them to the front: a drawing of her, a friendship bracelet, and a crocheted purse with buttons. To be loved is to be known, and these gifts that matched Absolutely's aesthetic, coupled with Boston singing along to every word, showcased their passion for the singer and her art.

The lights dimmed for the final time, and fans released thunderous cheers. Raye appeared on stage right in a luxurious black fur coat, long black gloves, statement jewelry, and chic sunglasses. She strutted across the stage as her voice from her new album's opening track "Intro: Girl Under The Grey Cloud." narrated that "a perfect storm was brewing," painting a vivid picture of a lover's journey. She started her set with a spirited performance of "I Will Overcome.," full of theatrics like confetti rain, opera vocals, and a draping red curtain to run behind.

Energy was bursting out of the seams by the second song of the night. The curtains opened, and a full band, complete with a brass section and strings, lined the stage. Boston belted out the lyrics to the hit single "WHERE IS MY HUSBAND!" along with Raye. After the euphoric performance, a fan passed a giant ring balloon to the singer, proposing on behalf of the city. She wore it around her arm, beaming with pride.

Her genre-bending discography made for a dynamic night, effortlessly blending fiery peaks with intimate vulnerability. Raye spent the time between tracks bonding with the audience. Even in a venue of thousands, the singer managed to connect on an individual level. When she asked if the crowd was having fun, she spotted a girl on the third level in a red sequin top. They chatted back and forth about her outfit and if she was enjoying the night, an incredible feat for Raye to achieve in such a packed show. Next, she held up cheeky cards with instructions for the audience, including "Please clap now!," "Sing!," and "Whoop! Whoop!" showcasing her command of Boston. Her last card was a QR code that let fans buy her album. She shared her pride in being an independent artist and thanked a fan in the audience, Tyra, who she spotted holding two of her vinyl records.

Raye paid homage to jazz, making her show a loving, reverent tribute to the genre. She stepped through a door that read "Raye's Jazz Club" and joined the "cool cats" in the brass band. She sat at one of the tables on the stage to deliver a moving cover of "Fly Me To The Moon" by Frank Sinatra. It was at this point that I noticed most of the audience had put their phones away and were taking in the moment.

She shared relatable stories about that one ex that stays in your mind before "Nightingale Lane.," making the night feel like a sleepover with best friends. Toward the end of her set, she brought out her two sisters to sing their song "Joy.," showcasing the smooth blend of their voices and their individual vocal prowess. Raye crafted an unforgettable experience for new and old fans alike, adding fan favorites and newer tracks from her discography throughout the setlist. Make sure to catch Raye, Absolutely, and Amma live before This Tour May Contain New Music ends in May. Raye will be back in Boston opening for Bruno Mars on The Romantic Tour at Gillette Stadium on September 5th and 6th. Buy tickets here.