Jorja Smith, O2 Academy, Birmingham - review with pictures
All hail Jorja Smith and long may she reign, as the Walsall star is fast becoming one of the most popular singer-songwriters of the UK – and last night’s performance at the O2 Academy Birmingham demonstrated how and why.
The venue was packed as the audience eagerly anticipated the young talent who has skyrocketed to fame and recognition in recent years.
Supported by the also extremely talented Mina Rose, Jorja Smith took to the stage greeting an audience hanging on every word.
Before Jorja’s set began the slightest dim of the lights set off the audience as they chanted her name but when she appeared on stage, and after the initial welcome scream, the crowd listened and sang in communion with the singer.
The audience knew every word and even continued to sing when Jorja stopped, something which clearly touched the singer as she smiled and let us continue.
It’s no surprise that the Brit award winner garnered this level respect and admiration, regardless of her recognisable talent, she serves as a role model for many, especially those in the Black Country area.
The songstress sang well known tracks from her debut album Lost and Found such as The One and On Your Own as well as the classic tracks, Where Did I Go? that propelled her career, and the one that started it all, Blue Lights, which featured a surprise performance by Birmingham grime rapper Jaykae.
As much as the crowd were watching her, Jorja was watching back, paying attention to her audience and interrupting her rendition of the thoughtful track, February 3rd, after noticing a woman at the front of the stage struggling with the heat and asked security to get her some water.
With a cover mash-up of Rihanna’s Man Down and Cardi B’s Be Careful, Jorja weaved these tracks with ease and she demonstrated her excellent vocal abilities with the performance.
In fact every song Jorja performed showcased her outstanding vocals, as she effortlessly switched from song to song, only needing a sip of water before was good to go again.
Saying that the audience were making her evening and that she was happy to be home, Jorja’s enjoyment of the night was recognisable. Her stage presence was relaxed, a testament to her natural performing ability and she looked at home singing the songs that she wrote herself, some whilst she was in school.
Credit must also go to her band who all performed expertly.
It is impossible to truly convey how talented the Walsall native is, but last night's performance showed us just why the 21-year-old is so highly regarded.
