Sometimes music just hits you with a wall of energy and pure emotion that it leaves you a little stunned. The boldness of a musician’s voice can sometimes lend itself to tell a story about them as a whole. As IYVES opened for Running Lights at Gramercy Theater, it was clear that her vocals were that wall, doing such a peaceful show. She leaned into a fresh and clean edge that was able to perpetuate her forward beyond just the standard solo act.
“My style is rooted in R&B soul, I have always loved the melodies of early soul, blues, hymns, to more modern and contemporary R&B/Soul,” she says. Each of these characteristics are so easily realized from listening to her sweet, yet full music. Every moment that she builds during her performance is a melting pot of smooth blues and moving R&B.
via Ali Fitzgerald, @alfitzpics
She explains that her sound is inspired from her time living in New York City, a place of constant exploration, energy, and endless work. This sort of hustle bustle often makes the still serenity of the outside world go forgotten, so that’s what IYVES tries to emulate in her sound: “calmer and serene places”.
IYVES says she allows the melody to create the mood and lyrical content of a song, which is so very apparent when she performs, swaying with the smooth melody. In particular, though, she’s excited about the knew acoustic version of “Gold”, a song that she had formerly released.
“I think hearing the song more stripped down lends itself to hearing it in a new light,” she noted.
A release like this shows such strong growth as an artist. IYVES says: “I have become more confident and comfortable in my voice both figuratively and literally so my message can come through more effortlessly.” What’s interesting is this very much explains her stage presence. While she started off a little nervous on stage, by the end she was able to own her space and energy.
Her nerves aside, IYVES delivered such a brilliant and unique vocal performance. Taking ownership of a stage isn’t easy, especially as an opening act. While navigating this and other obstacles in the industry, she says: “It is all about persistence and staying grounded.”
She also notes that: “I, as the artist, am going to care the most and know the most about my craft and including people who support and encourage that is crucial.” IYVES was so excited, too, to interact with those in the audience supporting her. She relied on their energy to build her performance.
On another note, IYVES says there’s a “ton of new music coming”. As she continues to develop this music, she explains a bit about the message that she is hoping to show.
via Ali Fitzgerald, @alfitzpics
“Maybe there are times the listener couldn’t quite put words or emotions to something but a song of mine and do that for them. I know music has done that for me time and time again.”
I didn’t know what to expect before walking into the venue, but I was glad I did. As a New York resident, I could definitely feel the relaxation of her music take over. It was full of everything I had been missing: peace and serenity. IYVES was an escape from my busy life and I believe she can be yours, too.
“It’s a gift to share your art and message,” she says. And it truly was a gift to receive hers. IYVES’s voice provides such a strong lead that most people will never achieve. The strength that could be felt was astounding and vibrant. Her authenticity definitely was able to shine through.
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