Maxwell and the National Symphony Orchestra @ The Kennedy Center [DC] - 9/18/2019
Maxwell and the National Symphony Orchestra at The Kennedy Center (Photo by Avery Junius)
Spanning just over two decades, Maxwell has warmed the hearts of R&B soul connoisseurs, releasing timeless albums and redefining the genre in the process. The Brooklyn-bred musician had a consecutive four-night run at the Kennedy Center, supported by the National Symphony Orchestra which brought a refreshing elegance to older cuts such as "Ascension (Don't You Ever Wonder)," and "Fortunate," and "Lifetime."
The dedication to a quality experience Maxwell possesses is a trait to appreciate. The audience had to turn off and lock their phones in pouches that couldn't be unlocked until after the show. Maxwell assured a connection to his audience that he admitted he hasn't felt in a long time. While Maxwell sang and grooved onstage (the women audibly loved his moves), the crowd reciprocated his energy with constant sing-alongs and dancing from their seats.
A special moment during Maxwell's set arrived when he praised a breast-cancer survivor in the crowd who just had her last chemotherapy treatment. Afterward, he gracefully transitioned to "This Woman's Work," his cover of Kate Bush's song of the same name. He encouraged sing-along to dedicate the song to all that battle cancer. When more than 2,000 people sing this song in unison with Maxwell leading the way, it feels like that battle might just be won yet.
Scroll down to see moments from Maxwell's performance last Wednesday.
