Destin-ed for Greatness: Destin Conrad Concert Review
KOKO Camden - the setting for this intimate show. Low lighting envelopes the packed crowd. The sound of eager chatter fills the air, impatience evident. All are eagerly awaiting one man.
Destin Conrad.
The 24-year-old Tampa native bought his ‘Submissive’ Tour to the shores of the UK on June 16th, more than a year after his last performance in the city of London. Destin Conrad was once a Vine star with a profile boasting more than 1 million followers. But those days are long gone. He’s now a fully-fledged star, commanding venues all over the world.
Destin was joined by Nia Smith, a relatively small artist unheard of by some concert-goers, but she proved why her name should be remembered as she opened the show. Nia stunned the room into silence with her dulcet tones as she performed her debut single 'Give Up the Fear' and at the time, an unreleased track titled 'Personal'.
With an aura reminiscent of the late great Aaliyah, Destin’s second support act Natanya channeled a 90s music video through her outfit and dance moves.
She took the crowd through the motions with her upbeat track '23' and then revealed a more sentimental side with 'Raining Tomorrow', a song dedicated to her mum. She supplied a refreshing sound and bonded with the crowd like she’d been in the business for 10+ years.
Following a short but sweet set, Natanya departed. All eyes were then trained on the stage, unmoving. Destin casually appeared, surrounded by flashing lights and sporting a Cheshire-cat grin. He waved at the crowd the way you would when greeting a long-time friend. Laid-back and incredibly chilled, a complete juxtaposition to the voice that filled the room. The mic was well and truly on. Trying to condense a sprawling catalogue such as his into a 60-90 minute slot is a tough feat, but Destin managed, showing exactly why he’s a professional.
The audience were treated to 'Outta Control', 'It’s Only You' and a rendition of Usher & Lil Jon’s 'Lovers & Friends', honeyed vocals present from start to finish.
While Destin was the main attraction, he made time to further spotlight what the UK R&B scene has to offer. There were surprise appearances from KWN and Sasha Keable - two of his close friends, who all came together for recent collaboration 'Auction' - who performed tracks 'Eyes Wide Open' and 'Hold Up', respectively.
He closed his “biggest headline show to date” with the song from his debut project 'Colorway' that arguably started it all - 'In the Air'. The opening notes drew the loudest cheers of the night from the crowd, and all of the singing practice from UK school assembly’s had once again proved fruitful, providing the most harmonious backing vocals for the track.
Destin exuded confidence, while possessing a level of humbleness that is admirable. Never straying from his roots and remaining grateful for the success that he has so far experienced, he firmly places himself in a seat at the R&B table. Hopefully for years to come.
Listen to his recent project: 'Submissive2'
