The Rose Theatre in Brampton was packed to capacity on Valentine’s Day for the highly anticipated show featuring Canada’s queen of Soul and R&B, Jully Black. With an incredible lineup and an engaged audience, the night was nothing short of magical.
The evening kicked off with Dominique Grant, a rising indie singer-songwriter from Toronto. Living up to the accolades given by Buzzfeed as one of their top 20 artists to watch, Dominique delivered a stellar 30-minute set. Her five-song performance had the crowd singing along and embracing her unique talent. If this show was any indication, Dominique Grant is an artist to watch in the near future.
Next, the seven-piece band Melafrique from Edmonton took the stage, bringing a vibrant blend of Soul, R&B, and Reggae. Their tight musicality and infectious energy kept the audience engaged, dancing and singing along to both their original songs and well-loved covers. Their performance was the perfect bridge leading into the night’s main event.
When Jully Black finally hit the stage, backed by a powerhouse five-piece band and three backing vocalists, the energy in the room instantly skyrocketed. From her first note, it was clear that the audience was in for an unforgettable experience. A true entertainer, Jully seamlessly blended storytelling with high-energy performances, making the audience feel like an essential part of the show.
On multiple occasions, she left the stage to interact with fans, adding a personal touch that made the night feel intimate despite the packed venue. A particularly moving moment came when she paid tribute to her late mother, incorporating recorded phone conversations between them into the show. This emotional segment deepened the audience’s connection to her, making her already captivating performance even more powerful.
As the night continued, Jully showcased the full range of her artistry. She flirted, danced, laughed, and delivered breathtaking vocal performances, proving why she has earned her title as Canada’s queen of R&B and Soul. One of the night’s most memorable highlights was her rendition of Bob Marley’s Redemption Song, where she was joined on stage by the lead singer of Melafrique. The entire audience became a choir, elevating the energy in the theatre to an almost spiritual level.
For many, the pinnacle of the show came when Jully performed Seven Day Fool, her iconic hit. The crowd erupted in song and dance, making it clear that this was a fan-favorite moment. Unfortunately, all great things must come to an end, and this electrifying performance was the night’s final number.
Jully Black once again proved that she is a master of live performance. From start to finish, she captivated the audience, turning The Rose Theatre into a massive Valentine’s Day celebration filled with soul, love, and powerful music. It was a night to remember—one that left the audience wanting more.
