Frozen Moments

The evening kicked off with a jolt of energy courtesy of AE The Cool, a rising star from the Augusta, Georgia area. Blending smooth R&B and sultry soul, AE lit up the stage and had the crowd on their feet well before the headliner even appeared. With a full band featuring trumpets, a soulful bass line, rhythmic guitar, keyboards, and congas, the ensemble brought a rich, textured sound that was as tight as it was electrifying. It was clear from the jump: this was going to be a night to remember.

Then Came the moment everyone was waiting for. Macy Gray took the stage in a jaw-dropping dress, wrapped in a stunning two-toned feather boa, and perched in high heels that screamed charisma. From the second she stepped into the spotlight, she owned it.

Bass player Darryl Pruitt wasted no time setting the groove, opening with a wave of funky bass riffs that immediately got the crowd moving. His playing was a masterclass in feel and finesse—driving, danceable, and downright infectious.

Mayaeni Strauss brought dual firepower to the performance, delivering silky backing vocals while also locking in with rhythmic guitar that kept the momentum alive all night long. On keys, Justin Clemons brought color and warmth to the sound, perfectly complemented by Steve Stewart on drums, whose tight, steady rhythms anchored the show with effortless precision.

But make no mistake—Macy Gray was the commanding force at the center of it all. Celebrating the 25th anniversary of her iconic album On How Life Is, she treated the audience to a full run-through of the record. Every track—Do Something, Why Didn’t You Call Me, Still, and of course the timeless I Try—was delivered with authenticity, soul, and that unmistakable Macy Gray rasp that still hits just right.

Between songs, Macy encouraged the crowd and her band alike to “look to the left, look to the right, and embrace one another,” creating an atmosphere that felt as much like a family reunion as it did a concert. It was uplifting, powerful, and full of heart.

Smiles were everywhere. People danced. People sang. And for a moment, time stood still in a wave of good vibes and soulful nostalgia.

Macy Gray didn’t just put on a show—she created a moment.

And this is coming from someone who wouldn’t even call themselves a diehard fan. But after that night, it’s hard not to be. If you get the chance to catch Macy on tour—take it. You won’t regret it.