Lovers of Arie’s music were treated to her hits including “I Am a Queen,” “Steady Love,” “That Magic,” “I am Not my Hair,” and “I Am Ready for Love.” As she went through the playlist, I realized so many of Arie’s songs lead with the words “I am.” She continues to give listeners her all. The gowns, headwear, music, and quotes were the whole package at the Kennedy Center. Her mother Joyce Simpson got applause because she designed the singer’s one-of-kind stage attire. With pride, Arie introduced family members to the audience. She also keeps her family near which contributes to her realness. Not yielding to what I call over-marketing techniques, Arie has been successful because she sings with her heart. There were moments when the singer deviated from the playlist, but the conductor and NSO continued to groove with the flow. “I think it is factual and common sense that we truly are an interconnected humanity,” Arie said framing her concert around her song “Prayer for Humanity.”Īrie and Panion had an infectious synergy. Those quotes on a screen above the stage introduced and extended the meaning of songs performed during the evening. To illustrate her feelings, Arie curated quotes from a diverse mix of voices. It’s a theme that has played out for everyone. Throughout the performance, Arie shared her pandemic revelations. Under the direction of Maestro Henry Panion, III, Ph.D., NSO, additional musicians and vocalists accompanied Arie, taking her best-loved songs to a higher level. What a way to kick off the evening and an unimaginable thrill for me as Flack was my music teacher at the former Rabaut Junior High School. Flack, a Howard University alumna and former teacher in DC Public Schools, wanted Arie to know she was seen, appreciated and deserved flowers for her work. The Kennedy Center exploded when Flack was brought out in a wheelchair to thunderous applause. Bond then introduced an Arie super fan Roberta Flack, the iconic singer, pianist and composer. The two-night event was a first-time BGR collaboration with the National Symphony Orchestra (NSO). Arie, the multi-Grammy Award-winning talent was introduced by Beverly Bond, founder of Black Girls Rock (BGR). A packed Kennedy Center Concert Hall was the setting for Black Girls Rock! FEST. India.Arie’s fans know her thoughts and they were ready to hear their sister speak the truth. India.Arie With the National Symphony Orchestra – Magical! - The Washington Informer Close