As we embrace the dawn of the next era of authentic R&B superstars, Coco Jones firmly remains in the conversation. The triple threat harbours a powerful voice and swoon worthy range, tracks like ‘ICU’ and ‘Calibre’ expert showcases of that. The deluxe version of her EP ‘What I Didn’t Tell You’ released at the top of the year, she’s since gone onto collaborate with names like Brent Faiyaz, Renee Rapp and more. Her Autumn months not only characterised by five Grammy nominations but also a second leg of her What I Didn’t Tell You tour, featuring her debut London headline.
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KOKO Camden at full capacity, tickets selling out expeditiously. Monday night welcomed Coco Jones supporters of all statures. To open we get Canadian riser Savannah Ré, her seamlessly setting the tone.
Next warm sultry lighting illuminates the stage, a smoke screen floats in and Coco Jones emerges to excited cheers. Kicking off with ‘Calibre’ the first single from her EP, the up-tempo hit is rife with assured lyricism that instantly invokes a big reception. Continuing with ‘Spend It All’, dancers adding an extra layer to the performance. ‘No Chaser’ and ‘Put You On’ follow, the South Carolina native contrasting the two sonically dissimilar tracks well.
As she addresses the crowd both confident and humble, the show feels like an affirming moment for Jones. Linking up with legend Babyface for record ‘Simple’, the track is fittingly positioned. Her live take of it just as monumental, the only thing lacking is the OG himself. Another full circle moment is brought to life on stage as she gets into her ‘Until The End Of Time’ cover, Coco also recently working with Justin Timberlake.
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Renowned for her sleek renditions, ‘Double Back’ is amalgamated with a cover of SWV’s ‘Rain’ – her melodies ripple throughout the building. The show now in full swing, ‘Fallin’ is the backing track to a sultry fan moment, Coco Jones dancing for one of the lucky members of the crowd.
Her breakout hit ‘ICU’ summons every phone or camera out of pockets. She belts soulfully, the performance resonating to the core. Her choral prowess undeniable. ‘Crazy For Me’ melts into an electrifying execution of Beyonce’s ‘Crazy In Love’. Despite ultimately ending on a high, calls for an encore erupt to which Coco answers, re-emerging on stage blissfully for one last verse.
A short but sweet show from the multi-facet, her yet to release a debut album but able to boast an already well-known catalogue. It feels like a polished teaser of what we’ll receive on her next tour.
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Words: Shanté Collier-McDermott
Photo Credit: Zekariah Al-Bostani
