Ms. Erykah Badu arrived fashionably late to her Saturday night concert at the Anthem, and the wait was well worth it. The fog machines teased the giddy crowed as everyone watched the hazy stage in anticipation. Fans gripped their phones, ready to capture Erykah Badu’s first move. Puffs of smoke arose from various parts of the crowd. Finally, her three backup singers took the stage, their faces emotionless. Moments later, Ms. Badu took the stage, her eyes wide and her face paralyzed and serious. The theatrics were beautiful and mysterious: she held the brim of her hat with the tips of her fingers, which were covered in large rings, some of which resembled insects. She wore a big, brown hat, one that resembles Pharell’s “Grammy hat.” Chainmail draped over her hair underneath it, which was revealed later in show.

I was warned that photographing Ms. Badu would be difficult, as the lighting is usually tough to work with. Unfortunately, that was right, and I was told I could only shoot the first two songs. But the lighting highlighted her golden-hazel eyes and fit perfectly with each song, each move.  Her voice is just as powerful and beautiful in concert as it is on her albums. She put on an incredible performance, which had the entire crowd moving. After shooting, I stuck around and danced with the crowd, cradling my camera bag in my arms.

The two openers for Ms. Badu were Pinky Killacorn and Sirius Company ft. Ms. Kim and Scooby. Pinky Killacorn was exactly what you’d expect from a name like that. Her backdrop was laced in neon greens, yellows, and, of course, pinks. So was her hair. She was fun, unapologetically herself, and had the crowd dancing and smiling.

Sirius Company ft. Ms. Kim and Scooby were an energetic GoGo band, who interacted with the crowd, and had as much fun on stage as the crowd did dancing along with them.

All photos copyright and courtesy of Shannon Gillen