The last time I saw Esperanza Spalding perform, she was in my hometown of Schenectady, NY, on a tiny outdoor stage called Music Haven. She had just released her self-titled album, and DayShawn Mojica told me that I HAD to check this woman out. So I went with my band mates and friends, and I could not have been more blown away by the trio of musicians I saw. The most talented star to which Schenectady had even borne witness (even if no one really knew at the time the heights she would reach)! Tonight, I was lucky enough to see Esperanza—as Emily—at the State Theatre in Ithaca, eight years after I first saw her perform. Let me tell you, if you get a chance to see this tour, please take it, buy tickets! It’s inspiring, engaging, thought-provoking, and FUN! I was lucky enough to score this hat from one of the backup singers (although “backup” doesn’t begin to describe what they do; they’re integral to this music and they’re stars in their own right). Esperanza is a genius, no doubt about it. #esparanzaspalding #emilysdplusevolution #jazz #ithaca #bass #funk #rock #genius #tour #livemusic (at State Theatre of Ithaca)