The Dickies Arena extended an excited welcome to six-time GRAMMY-nominated R&B sensation Jhené Aiko for this stop on ‘The Magic Hour’ tour. This concert was a magical experience that transported the audience into a whimsical world of music and beautiful visuals that captivated the audience. From the moment she stepped on stage, it was clear that this would be a night to remember.
Magical energy filled the arena as fans poured in wearing their most earthy and whimsical outfits. In the sea of concertgoers dressed as garden fairies, they happily danced to openers Umi, Kiana Ledé, Tink, Coi Leray, and DJ Starrza. The crowd jumped out of their seats excitedly as the lights began to dim and fog poured in for Aiko’s grand entrance. Aiko graces the stage by blooming out of a large lotus flower to start her set with Guidance and Stay Ready (What a Life). Aiko’s outfits throughout the night were a highlight, embodying an earthy garden fairy vibe her fans gave right back to her. The show was split into ‘acts’ which added a level of theatrics that accompanied the grand stage that was set to reflect a crystal fairy garden adorned with large crystals and rock fixtures and a harpist. The setlist was a perfect mix of fan favorites and deep cuts. Songs such as “Triggered,” “Never Call Me,” and “The Worst,” showcased her vocal prowess and lyrical depth while fans sang along. As the concert flowed from act to act, each being precursored by a melodic narrator and stunning visuals, a standout section was the moment in the show where Jhené and her pianist transformed a section of the stage into their personal jazz club. A big neon sign that wrote ‘J. C. Brown’ illuminated the velvet red backdrop and piano that occupied the small section of the stage. This pair with the casual drinks rested on the piano along with the melody of songs such as “Pray for You” and “10K Hours” gave a very cozy jazz club feel to a show with thousands of fans singing along.
From act to act, Aiko delivers unforgettable performances that had the fans singing all night. The energy ramped up as she delivered fan favorites like “My Type,” “Post to Be,” and “Beware,” popular hits that featured a plethora of different collaborators. For one collaborator, it was their time to shine on stage with Jhené. Singer Mila J joined Jhené on stage for “On The Way,” “Kickin’ Back” and “My Main.” Just when the audience thought the special guests were over, the crowd erupted when she sang “Sunshine,” and Lil Flip joined her for a nostalgic rendition of the anthem.
The show also featured unique elements that set it apart from typical performances. Aiko led the audience in a breathing exercise, complete with a crystal bowl, promoting an in-the-moment feel as she asked everyone to put their phones down and repeat the affirmation “I’m alive and well.” This introspective moment was followed by the “Define Me” interlude, creating a serene pause before the final act. Closing the night, Aiko rounded out a stellar show with “Eternal Sunshine,” “Bed Peach” and “Magic Hour.” Jhené Aiko’s concert was not just a musical performance but a theatrical and sensory experience, leaving fans with lasting memories of a night where music, imagery, and emotion blended seamlessly.
Jhené Aiko
Photos + Review by Kayla Middleton | Exclusively for Music, Why Not!
