Hear Jessie Reyez Roar

Jessie Reyez w/ Armani White & SADBOI
The Paramount, Seattle, WA
10.30.22

When I say people were excited to see Jessie Reyez live at Seattle’s historic Paramount Theatre, it’s with the utmost emphasis. Particular shout-out to the super fans in the VIP pit who literally didn’t sit down all night, jumping up and down, shouting and screaming along from start to finish. But I can’t imagine a single audience member in the sold out crowd — even those significant others dragged out of their sweatpants for the night — left the show disappointed.

Because for real, Jessie Reyez delivered. And her openers didn’t hurt one bit. SADBOI FKA EBHONI came out first, with a short set of dancehall-tinged R&B, followed by TikTok sensation Armani White, whose energy got the crowd even more hyped. But then it was time for Jessie herself, and the crowd went truly wild. Touring in support of her stunning sophomore album, September’s YESSI, Reyez kicked off with the album’s opener, “Mood”, a snappy, raw intro that set the stage for the rest of the night. A night in which she sang her heart out but barely had to. Because the crowd was more than willing to do the same.

The devotion to her, and to each other, was evident, especially after Reyez encouraged everyone to get friendly with each other. Reyez was attentive to everyone, incredibly present, and vocally on point, letting her impressive range show its stuff. Heart strings were pulled, videos were taken, voices were appreciated. This is Reyez’s time and she’s certainly not wasting it.

Review and photos by Stephanie Dore

Jessie Reyez