Kali Uchis Takes Chicago by Storm: A Mesmerizing Night of Music and Passion
By Macy Bryant
On May 16, the Grammy-nominated performer Kali Uchis visited the stage at Chicago's Aragon Ballroom, creating a captivating and unforgettable concert experience. The evening was filled with stunning performances, energetic crowds, and a cascade of musical treasures, leaving everyone in attendance with memories to cherish.
At precisely 6:00 p.m., the doors swung wide, welcoming an influx of excited attendees eager to take in an evening of great talent. RAYE, a British singer-songwriter, ignited the stage with her distinctive fusion of R&B and pop, enthralling the crowd with her beautiful vocals and contagious enthusiasm. Setting the right mood, RAYE's first performance had the crowd excited for the main event.
The air was charged with excitement as the stage underwent its final preparations. During set changes, chants of “Kali” reverberated through the venue, building the energy to a crescendo. Anticipation reached its peak when the lights dimmed, and Kali Uchis emerged, bathed in a kaleidoscope of colors and an ocean of cheers.
To kick off the night, Kali Uchis brought back her iconic intro song, "Frikitona," originally performed by Puerto Rican reggaeton duo Plan B. The crowd erupted as they sang along, their voices merging with hers to create a harmonious symphony that reverberated throughout the ballroom.
The audience's tremendous emotional reaction to Kali Uchis' songs made it clear how powerful her presence was. Each lyric was met with a thunderous chorus, the crowd singing every word so passionately that at times it seemed as if the sound system was unnecessary. It was evidence of the strong tie that had been established between Kali Uchis and her loyal followers as a result of their affinity for her music and our shared experiences.
In a moment that ignited collective excitement, Kali Uchis paid homage to her iconic Coachella performance by having her dancers recreate the exhilarating lap dance with a lucky fan plucked from the audience. The electrifying performance only amplified the atmosphere.
Her set list was a carefully crafted journey, weaving together hits such as "Melting," "Dead to Me," and "Speed" with an unexpected twist. Kali Uchis delighted the crowd by covering songs from other Latino artists, including the irresistibly catchy "Salvaje," the empowering anthem "Rica y Apretadita," and the timeless classic "Papi Chulo." Each rendition was met with explosive enthusiasm, demonstrating the universal appeal of Kali Uchis' artistry and her ability to transcend genres.
Beyond just performing music, Kali Uchis demonstrated her compassion and empathy. She frequently took a break in between songs to check on the audience, making sure they were okay and giving them a sense of being seen and heard. She also handed out water bottles to the crowd, fulfilling their desire for both her music and her sincere connection—a resounding monument to her dedication to her fans.
The lighting design of the event was flawlessly timed to match the mood of each song, enveloping the audience in a visual wonderland and making it a sensory feast. Her gorgeous ensembles, each gleaming with sequins and exuding her distinct style and personality, heightened Kali Uchis' stage presence.
As the night drew to a close, Kali Uchis left the stage with an indelible mark on the hearts of her Chicago.