From the Back Row to the Barricade: Nao Owns the Room in Vancouver

There’s a special kind of magic when an artist you love lives up to everything you hoped for live. Last night at the Vogue Theatre in Vancouver, Nao floated above our expectations in a haze of blue petals, flowing fabric, and pure joy.

British-Nigerian singer Bellah opened the night with a memorable set, blending R&B and Afrobeat influences with ease. Her voice was rich and confident, her humour was on point, and by the time she wrapped up, the crowd was fully warmed up.

The stage was dressed like a dream with soft pink florals, glimmering fabric, a single staircase, and a column of white silk that shimmered in the centre. The band kicked off with “Wildflowers,” and then the curtain dropped to reveal Nao centre stage. From that moment on, we were in it together.

Nao’s voice was soaring, sweet, and effortlessly soulful. It carried through every note. She played plenty from her new album Jupiter, which felt deeply personal and emotionally grounded. “Happy People” turned into a feel-good singalong, while “30 Something” slowed things down with lyrics that hit especially hard for anyone feeling the push-pull of adult life. She also threw in older favourites like “Bad Blood” and “Complicated,” each getting a massive response from fans.

She clearly loves a good moment, and she gave us a few, like showering fans with blue flower petals at the barricade, leading the crowd in harmonies like a choir director during “Elevate”, and, maybe the most memorable part of the show, reappearing during the encore at the back of the venue to sing “Another Lifetime.” She walked through the crowd slowly, singing directly to fans as phones came out and jaws dropped. Then she turned it back up with “Drive and Disconnect,” dancing her way to the stage as the crowd followed.

By the end of the night, I couldn’t stop smiling, even while taking photos in the pit. It was one of those shows where you leave lighter. Definitely one of my favourites of the year.

Check out our favourite photos of the night below or head to our Facebook page for the full gallery!

NAO

BELLAH

All Photo Credit: Caroline Charruyer