When Gemma Ofili announced a date for her concert dubbed Through My Skin, her fans never knew what to exactly expect. One thing was certain though; Gemma will always deliver musically.
As the 24th of July 2021 drew closer, I made sure to clear my calendar for this intimate concert I was billed to attend. Since the organizers must adhere to COVID-19 protocols, I knew the list of attendees will be lean and I was sure of an intense musical experience with an amazing singer.
The hybrid event was to be streamed live on Zoom for those who wouldn't be in attendance. Everybody wins, right?
Missing out on Through My Skin.
As the D-Day approached, a number of personal issues stared me in the face and it was becoming evident I wouldn't be able to attend.
This hurt me a lot and I wanted to find a way to make it work regardless. In my mind, the worst-case scenario will have me watching live on Zoom. As the Universe would have it, I also missed that.
Eventually catching up on Gemma's Through My Skin.
Just two months later, I got the rare opportunity of receiving an almost 2-hour video of the event I missed in July. I was so excited that I didn't think before hitting the play button.
Let me share my experience with you:
Gemma's music got soul!
As Gemma walked onto the stage at the Untitled Art Gallery in Ikoyi, the first thing one would notice is her beautiful smile and elegant afro hairdo which drew thunderous applause.
As soon as she opened her mouth, I felt goose-pimples all over. What she sings, she feels. "This isn't ordinary music," I thought to myself.
She announced her presence on stage by performing her first single and the first song off her Through My Skin EP - Use My Love Song.
"I’m humbled by the turnout. I’m glad to see everybody. Thank you, thank you, thank you very much," she thanked everyone present. She then went on to share with guests how Use My Love Song was inspired by her late husband, Tochi.
She sandwiched songs off her EP between performing covers of songs from some of her role models. Backed up by a four-man band led by Godwyn Guitar, she performed songs like O ga di mma, Love Got The Best Of Me, and Tomorrow. While O ga di mma was inspired by an encounter she had with a friend's mom, Tomorrow was performed right after a cover to Asa's No One Knows Tomorrow.
Citing Sade and Celine Dion as some of her other influences, she also performed No Ordinary Love and Immortality in honour of the iconic singers.
Gemma is loved
As Gemma took a short break, another soulful singer came on stage to serenade guests. Highly revered musician, Cill (pictured above) got on stage to perform Lover.
Gemma might not have a million fans yet but those who love her music ride heavy for her. Some of those in attendance included her proud Dad, Chuka Xavier Obi (Dasuki), friends, family, and loved ones.
Gemma's energy is second to none
When Gemma returned for the second half of her performance, I noticed a renewed energy in her delivery. One couldn't help but notice her change of outfit.
She also opted for her glasses this time around as she captivated the audience with amazing back-to-back performances.
With a wreath laid at her feet, she teased two songs from her forthcoming project; SunRay and Lay It On Me. Stories after stories, she shared what influenced each song. With every story she shared, she drew sincere emotions from guests.
Gemma is here for good
Gemma Ofili might have rounded up her scintillating performance with a rendition of the title song of the Through My Skin EP but it's not hard to see through her. She is here to make nothing but good music and she will be around for a long long time.
The night ended with her receiving a bouquet of roses as words of prayer and encouragement were offered to heaven for her.
As I watched her hug some of her fans and take pictures with them, only one thing kept coming to my mind - "Gemma, please when is your next show?"
Listen to Gemma's Through My Skin EP:
Comments
Post a Comment
Feedbacks Are Welcome