Photos and review by Jennie Book
@jenniebookphotography

On March 9, 2025, Joy Oladokun brought the Blackbird tour to The Fillmore in San Francisco, sharing a partially solo acoustic, but mostly full band set inside the historic venue. Promoting their latest album, Observations from a Crowded Room, Oladokun showcased a hybrid of folk, pop, and soul, all the while proving to be not just a musician, but a gifted storyteller, both in song and in the moments in between.

Oladokun has natural charisma, a funny laugh, and self-deprecating anecdotes, and made the Fillmore feel like a cozy living room. Throughout the night and in between songs we got to hear stories, jokes, and some pointed jabs at current politics and leaders, which got cheers from the crowd.

Musically, the set was dynamic and more uptempo than I expected, with plenty of pop-rock energy, thanks to their powerhouse rhythm section. Drummer April Lee played with intense energy and got the crowd yelling and dancing, while bassist Gray Schweers laid bass that not only the audience felt but that they clearly felt themselves while playing, which is always fun to see. Keyboardist Alvin Malone provided an atmospheric layer, helping pull it all together, and Oladokun on guitar was front and center with the driving sound of the night that kept everybody standing and swaying and fully engaged. It was the kind of set that balanced moments of acoustic intimacy with full-band sections where the drums hit way harder and better than anticipated, and the sound at The Fillmore was perfect for it.

Oladokun’s signature accessory—hats, which frequently bear changing messages—was in full effect. This night’s said “We’re All Gonna Die,” which is both the name of their song with Noah Kahan and a general sentiment we could all go deep on. The crowd, solidly millennials with an LGBTQ+ inclination, showered Oladokun with love, shouting admiration through the night. At the top of the show, Oladokun said, “I hope you have a great time here tonight,” and a fan immediately yelled back, “We hope YOU have a great time!”, which showcased the warmth in the room.

Unlike many artists who stick to rigid setlists, Oladokun switches things up from show to show, making each performance unique. By the time they closed the night, it was clear: Joy Oladokun doesn’t just perform, they invite you into their world, offering up a night of laughter, reflection, and amazing musicianship.

Luke Tyler Shelton opened the night and sat solo acoustic, front and center, warming up the crowd with his heartfelt songs and anecdotes in between. He’ll be on tour with Oladokun for the next few upcoming dates.

All the latest news and info can be found at www.joyoladokun.com – and the tour continues through the lower US through March, with more dates on the East Coast in July.