Detroit received a double shot of soul when Anthony Hamilton and Fantasia performed at the beautiful Fox Theatre on April 22, 2016. The North Carolina natives put on a dynamic show filled with true, down-home sangin’. On this particular night, Fantasia opened the show with her indomitable vocals and undeniable diva attitude. Accompanied by her background singers (one of whom is Anthony Hamilton’s ex-wife, Tarsha), Fantasia had the women exhaling and gave the men something to think about, as she belted out hits like “Where Would You Be” and “Change Your Mind.” Easing into a solemn persona, the “American Idol” alumna sang “Summertime” with grace and poise. The self-proclaimed “Rock Soul” siren’s new album, The Definition Of … is due to drop June 10.
Speaking of definition, headliner Anthony Hamilton embodied soul like a second skin. An apparent leg injury did not stop the Southern gentleman from delivering his soul-stirring performance. Exuding confidence and magnetic charm, Hamilton serenaded the crowd with old favorites such as “Charlene,” “Comin’ From Where I’m From” and “The Best of Me.” Showing that his repertoire transcends sentimental love songs, the talented singer-songwriter spread a lighthearted vibe with the mid-tempo jams “Cool” and “Save Me,” from his latest album, What I’m Feelin’. Hamilton engaged with his fans by touching their hands and giving them eye contact as he moved back and forth across the stage.
Humble enough to share the spotlight with others, Hamilton did a brief wardrobe change while his background singers, The Hamiltones, took time to flex their skills, giving a clever and distinctive rendition of 2 Chainz’s “Watch Out.” The trio has gained attention recently for putting a soulful twist on hip-hop hits such as Drake’s “Hotline Bling” and Rae Sremmurd’s “Come Get Her.” Unafraid to bare the depths of his inner being, Hamilton gave poignant performances of his album’s title track, “What I’m Feelin'” and his favorite track, “Still,” an ode to the love we receive from God. The crowd was slow to warm up to “Still,” but by the end, they were hooked as the crooner told them, “I know what y’all want … I got you, I got what you want.” Indeed Hamilton gave the audience what they wanted and what they needed too. What I’m Feelin’ is available now. Check out the tour dates below and be sure to get your dose of soul when Anthony Hamilton and Fantasia come to your city.
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May 12Jackson, MississippiMississippi Coliseum
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May 13Southaven, MississippiLanders Center
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May 14New OrleansUNO Lakefront Arena
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May 20Los AngelesMicrosoft Theatre
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May 22Las VegasThe Joint at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Las Vegas
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June 01ChicagoArie Crown Theater
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June 03PhiladelphiaThe Mann
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June 04ClevelandState Theatre
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June 05Baltimore, MDPier Six Concert Pavilion
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June 09Grand Prairie, TexasVerizon Theatre At Grand Prairie
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June 10Kansas CityStarlight Theatre
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June 11Shreveport, LAShreveport Municipal Memorial Auditorium
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June 12HoustonNRG Arena
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June 16Tampa, FloridaUSF Sun Dome
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Jun 17AtlantaFox Theatre
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June 18Richmond, VirginiaAltria Theater
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June 19Charlotte, North CarolinaBojangles’ Coliseum
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July 12Mt. Pleasant, MichiganSOARING EAGLE CASINO AND RESORT
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July 16Hayward, CaliforniaPioneer Amphitheater on the Campus of Cal State East Bay
Photos by Raquelle Harris for Steed Media Service
