When ?uestlove first saw Jill Scott perform live she enthralled him with such astounding talent, that she consequently landed herself an invitation to join The Roots in studio. This discovery placed Scott in particularly sound musical company where she helped co-write the hit song You Got Me which ultimately landed The Roots and Neo-Soul’s First Lady, Erykah Badu, with a Grammy. Not too many artists can boast a career that was spring boarded from a single live performance without the bells and whistles most singers employ. With that as a back drop, I was more than eager to see Jill Scott live, especially as this is her first Australian tour.
The Palais Theatre was scattered with the most diverse crowd I have ever seen. Perhaps a little bit surprised at the niche-transcending audience, I remembered my days working in a warehouse where my lovable (albeit bogan) co-worker had proclaimed his love for Jill Scott. In a nutshell: all walks of life dig a bit of hard-hitting and heart-wrenching soul.
Soon the theatre was filled almost to capacity. The lights waned and anticipation buzzed throughout the audience. Before we knew what hit us, Jill Scott was standing centre-stage, donned in a ’70s inspired green jumpsuit, huge afro and gold-hooped earrings. Her first notes boomed and filled every crevice of the venue. The crowd screamed back in adoration.
Performing her more popular hits including Golden, The Way, A Long Walk, Hate On Me and (my personal fave) He Loves Me, Scott had a very receptive crowd who was more than willing to get up dance, and sing a note or two. Her arsenal of attractive backup singers, decked in matching kicks, jeans and shirts, were a nice addition to the show. Their rendition of corny/fabulous’ 90s R&B jam Knockin’ The Boots was particularly pleasing. The band played a very tight performance, with a highly skilled saxophonist who, at one point, took centre-stage invoking a 1920s jazz vibe.
With no surprise, her greatest strength is that incredible voice. Technically, Scott is on point (naturally). She sings within a very wide vocal range, with zero pitch errors. Performance-wise, she outshines most of her counterparts. Treading the line between an emotional and authentic performance, while at the same time displaying the reaches of an unwavering, dazzling voice can be tricky business, I’d imagine. I’m guessing her spoken word poetry roots aid her in the delivery of her music, which is exceptionally expressive. Softening areas of her music, Scott murmured loss, heartbreak and love all within a few moments. Many years after her debut, I am glad she made the long trip Down Under.
BY TAMARA VOGL
Loved: That Jill Scott is low-key and very, very funny woman.
Hated: The sound quality of the speakers was not the best.
Drank: Water.
