New Zealand born singer-songwriter, Jordan Rakei, graced his hometown of Brisbane with a remarkable night at The Princess Theatre. Currently residing in London, Jordan was born in New Zealand before moving to Brisbane, Australia with his parents which is where he spent the majority of his childhood. Growing up in Brisbane, Jordan started writing songs from a young age, honing his musical talents over the years which eventually lead to his very successful career.
The homecoming performance at The Princess Theatre in Southbank, Queensland carried a special significance as he took the stage in front of a crowd that had witnessed his evolution from a budding local artist to an internationally acclaimed musician. The show itself was attended by old friends of Jordan’s, who he himself pointed out within the crowd, making the show feel even more warm and special to be in attendance of.
Jordan Rakei’s live performance is best described as a masterclass in musicianship and emotional depth. As the show began, Jordan’s band members took their places on the stage one by one before Jordan approached the stage with a warm, calm presence. Jordan has the incredible ability to captivate the attending of the audience into his world, creating an intimate and immersive atmosphere. The stage itself was adorned with floorlamps of varying sizes and colours, which would flicker and flash according to the song that was being played.
His rich, soulful voice alongside delicate falsettos helped him glide effortlessly through his tracks with perfect precision while his music itself showcased his deep-rooted influences in jazz, R&B, and electronic music. One of the most captivating elements of his live shows is the blend of both acoustic and electronic sounds. Backed by his tight-knit band, Jordan frequently alternated between playing keyboard, guitar, and electronic pads, adding a dynamic, hand crafted feel to his performances. His arrangements breathe new life into his studio recordings, with extended instrumental sections, impressive solos, and rhythmic breakdowns that highlight the chemistry between himself and his bandmates.
One of the nights highlights was when Jordan gave a vocal solo to one of his female bandmates who played main and backup keyboard throughout the show. Her voice was hauntingly ethereal and echoed throughout the theatre, equivalent to a siren luring in their prey. The audience howled and cheered as she hit high notes that were completely unexpected while Jordan and his band members played and watched her sing in complete awe.
Although the venue change from The Tivoli to The Princess Theatre was last minute, the team behind the show pulled off an amazing performance regardless. Jordan Rakei’s live show in his hometown is a testament to his hard work and dedication to his music career all those years ago, leading to a full circle and very emotional moment for the artist whilst he performed classics from his discography as well as newer music from more recent years. Jordan’s show was absolutely incredible from beginning to end and had your attention hooked all the way through, I would highly recommend anyone go and watch his live show. Even if youre not into the jazz/RnB style of music he performed, his stage presence and warmth whilst he performed was next level. Thank you to Jordan for an amazing night, I cannot wait to see the future of his career and to attend another show when he comes back to his hometown of Brisbane.
GALLERY
All photos: © Jaz Wilkins