Rooted in its influences from musical styles like funk, jazz, hip hop, and contemporary R&B, neo soul emerged in the 1990s and blessed us with the great works of iconic artists like Lauryn Hill, D’Angelo, Maxwell, and Erykah Badu.
Known for incorporating elements of classic soul music like live instrumentation, neo soul stands apart from contemporary hip hop and R&B with its less conventional sound and more conscious-driven lyrics, and has been said to redefine the boundaries of Black pop.
Much like its blending of genres, Toronto’s culturally diverse city serves as the perfect setting to highlight some of our own talented local artists, who are coming together this September to put on a very special Best of Neo Soul Candlelight Concert. Surrounded by the warm glow of flickering candles, you’ll be enthralled from start to finish with this one-of-a-kind performance!
Candlelight: Lauryn Hill, Erykah Badu and the Best of Neo Soul feat. Nicole Chambers and SpokenbyT
Happening at the Paradise Theatre on September 7,Candlelight: Lauryn Hill, Erykah Badu and the Best of Neo Soul will feature Toronto singer and songwriter Nicole Chambers and her own band, as well as spoken word artist SpokenbyT.
Nicole Chambers has been redefining the music scene song by song with her captivating lyrics and catchy tunes. With a setlist based on neo soul favourites, you’ll get to hear passionate renditions of Erykah Badu, Lauryn Hill, Leela James, and many more, as well as a number of Nicole’s own original songs.
In addition, SpokenbyT will take the stage as Candlelight’s very first spoken word poet to perform, and trust us, you won’t want to miss it! Taking inspiration from the sounds of old school jazz and soulful hip hop / R&B, you’ll be treated to T’s melodic lyricism which stands in a league of its own.
The tentative program will feature covers of the following classic neo soul tunes:
- Erykah Badu’s On & On
- Childish Gambino: Redbone
- Lauryn Hill: Ex Factor
- D’ Angelo: Feel Like Makin’ Love
- Leela James: I’d Rather Go Blind
- Erykah Badu: Tyrone
- Solange Don’t Touch My Hair
- Ari Lennox: Whipped Cream
- Lauryn Hill: Can’t Take My Eyes Off Of You
The unique performance is also groundbreaking in that every individual directly involved in the show is a person of colour, with a diverse lineup reflecting Toronto’s beautiful melting pot of cultures. The musicians include Nicole Chambers on vocals, Rachel Smith on the piano, Daniel Espina on guitar, Issac Teague on bass, and the special guest SpokenbyT accompanied by Mamic.
The producer of the event is Sherisse Bailey-Howard, who is a event and festival producer and curator; newly added to the candlelight team and who draws inspiration from pushing creative boundaries and a need to foster inclusivity in the music and entertainment landscape. She approaches every project and role with a fierce love and dedication.
Don’t miss this monumental concert! Secure your tickets now for Candlelight: Lauryn Hill, Erykah Badu and the Best of Neo Soul feat. Nicole Chambers and SpokenbyT at Paradise Theatre on September 7 at 6:30 p.m. and 8:45 p.m. for a memorable night to close out your summer.