On Wednesday June 23, 2010, I visited the Lower East Side of New York City for my first ever Ryan Leslie concert at The Bowery Ballroom. My initial reaction of the venue was that it was very small and very low key. I expected it to be packed to capacity but surprisingly, it wasn't [which was good thing because too many people in a tight spot causes drama]. Most venues that book a popular artist to headline a show in New York, is crammed packed and damn near un-walkable! But this was different.This two-day concert series was exclusively for a very small, but intimate crowd. And I'm guessing that's why it was at this particular location. Ryan said he wanted to do something special for his fans in NYC and he did just that.

The concert was very short too -- it was only about two and a half hours. Showtime started promptly at 9pm and ended just before 11:30. Rising R&B sensation Miguel from Jive Records, opened up the show and performed about five or six songs. "All I Want Is You" [that was popular with the ladies] and the more up-tempo Usher less track "Pay Me", had the whole crowd goin' nuts. For a new artist, Miguel is a very good performer -- he has a good amount of endurance and stamina. He performed for the first 50 minutes and not once, did his voice crack or was he out of breath. He even engaged the crowd's interest by pumpin' his body for a few female fans in the front row (side eye). I swear, I wanted to YouTube that sh*t but I was too busy trying to tweet all the juicy stuff to my followers (epic fail). My favorite part of his set was when his guitarist did a dope two minute solo. Since I studied music in high school and college, I can appreciate things like that. And the fact that many people in the audience knew a lot of his less than popular songs -- shows he has a cult following and that to me, was very impressive. 

At about 10pm, after the crowd grew antsy, Ryan Leslie hit the stage in a black leather vest, a denim shirt, black jeans, and matching shades. He was backed by a five-piece band including a keyboardist, drummer, two guitarists, and three male backup singers dressed in all in black.  Everybody was going nuts again -- But this time, even louder! Girls were screaming so loud my ears were ringing. And while I am a HUGE Ryan Leslie fan, I refuse to act like a groupie or a bird! As much as I wanted to sh*t my pants every time he looked in my direction, I remained calm and collected. But deep down inside... I wanted to pass the f-ck out! He opened his segment of the show with a rap verse from a song that is expected to be on his third album, "Les Is More". "Glory" [which is dope by the way], took a stab at label reps and their strict guidelines outlined in his record deal. The next few songs he performed, were the smash hits off his debut album. The synth - infused "Diamond Girl" dropped as fans sang along and before you know it, the bass from "Addiction" pounded through the entire venue. When those two songs came on, I swear... every girl thought he was talking to them. Typical right? Of course, it is (laughs). But stuff like that doesn't move me. It was the drums that did the talkin'. Unlike most girls there that night, it was the music I was secretly making love to. Hearing them live touched my soul....Excuse me, while I go re-live that moment.

   [Photo Credit: RapUp.com]                                                   

He quickly ripped through songs like "You're Not My Girl", "Something That I Like" and "Valentine", where he used a talk-box to distort his voice as he transitioned into a cover of Zapp and Roger’s “I Want to Be Your Man” [classic] and the Funky Bootsy Collins joint, "I'd Rather Be With You". Up next was “Maybachs and Diamonds." A laid-back cut he made a year ago for rapper Rick Ross’ "Deeper Than Rap" album. It didn’t make the Bawse's cut, but most likely will make Ryan’s. The coolest thing about his set was his elaborate light setup. As he sang, streams of greens, purples, and whites sprayed him with their glow to the beat of his percussion. And in between each song, he frequently jumped on his synthesized keyboard for solos. Talk about showmanship and swag, right?! The only thing he lacks is sex appeal and dance moves (laughs). But I guess just because you're a scholar and a musical genius, doesn't mean you have to be rhythmically inclined right? Maybe so. I can't lie though -- seeing him buss his signature moves were classic [That's another thing I attempted to tape but it didn't happen]. I could tell you, but seeing is believing. 

Some of the night's highlights included when he pulled a random couple from Toronto on stage after performing a few love songs that were on the "Transition" album ["Guardian Angel" and "I Choose You"]. It just so happened that the man proposed to his girlfriend as Ryan played the keys in the background. Way to go on the element of surprise [though I have a strong feeling it was staged].... Anyway, it was a little too cute for me. I wanted to vomit afterward. Love and I don't get along so truthfully... the sight of it makes me gag. Call me a hater all you want -- but that sh*t is for suckers (laughs). If I was dude, I would say money over b*tches and grab my nuts with pride -- on some Scarface sh*t... but that's just me. Oh! and how can I forget the most interesting part of all! Ryan made a comment stating "They said my future doesn't look so bright. But performing here for y'all tonight makes me think I still have a chance, that's why I keep doin' music". Immediately I thought: he's probably getting dropped by Universal Motown due to poor album sales. Which is probably why he opened the show with that rap verse stating "They never really understood what I was trying to do, had me feeling like Miles Davis kinda blue...Never had a top ten but you still respect my art... go check my girl on that February Vogue cover... No matter what it takes I'ma get my glory".

 Before closing out the show, R-Les gave the crowd an enjoyable version of Stevie Wonders "You and I". Afterward, he transitioned into a rock version of "How It Was Supposed To Be." That had to be my second all-time favorite part of the show because he made everyone in his band do a solo! On some real, his guitarist and his drummer, --Travis Sayles is a f-ckin' monster! I know you're probably thinking: "Well damn, what about the other band members who play other instruments"? None of that matters -- to me at least. Maybe its because drums and stringed instruments get under my skin. Or maybe its because my I attempted to play piano, drums and guitar and failed horribly. As a matter of fact, horribly is an understatement. I won't get into detail with that though.

Just before he exited the stage, he delivered a speech telling fans to follow their dreams as the crowd chanted "Ryan!, Ryan!, Ryan!" and the venue faded to black. Overall, the show increased my love for music and most importantly, my appreciation for real musicians. Its easy to be a rapper or singer, but not many of them are talented musicians. So when I come across someone that can play an instrument, it makes me want to step my game up. Why? because a lot guys think that's sexy (laughs). Ok, let me stop. The real reason is because Ryan is one of my favorite producers and I hope to be like him one day. I'll tell you about my life story some other time. For now, let's just stick to my show review.

The concert was nothing short of spectacular, if you ask me. I wouldn't mind seeing Ryan perform again. Dude is absolutely amazing and he has my utmost respect. I also wouldn't mind going to The Bowery Ballroom again either. The security guards were like my best friend. They treated me like it was my show -- as if people were there to see me perform. I got free drinks too. I don't know if its because they thought I was cute or what. On second thought, I was on the guest list. Awww well... that sh*t was great! I'm a Leo so I love attention and being catered to. Screw you, don't judge me! Yes, I am spoiled! So what?! (laughs).

Anyway, If you haven't seen Ryan Leslie live in concert, add that to your list of things to do before you kick the bucket. Trust me, its worth it.