Concerts Photos

Joy Oladokun at Commodore Ballroom in Vancouver

Published

8 months ago

March 7, 2025

On March 6, American singer-songwriter Joy Oladokun brought her deeply personal and emotional Blackbird Tour to the Commodore Ballroom in Vancouver, delivering a night that felt equal parts intimate and triumphant.

Opening the evening was Luke Tyler Shelton, whose warm stage presence and heartfelt songwriting set the tone for the night. With a voice that carried a quiet strength, Shelton’s performance resonated with the crowd, offering a perfect lead-in to the main event as he shard songs form his latest album Hell of A Ride.

Taking the stage to an enthusiastic welcome, Oladokun kicked off her set with “Am I?” from her latest album, Observations from a Crowded Room. The track’s ‘90s alt-rock energy and raw lyrics immediately pulled the audience into her orbit. Oladokun’s ability to balance vulnerability with humour was on full display throughout the night.

She shared a story about her bandmates getting denied entry into Canada. Despite the setback, she played with a temporary bassist and keyboardist, both of whom fit effortlessly into her sound. She also joked about a team member reminding her to finish her weed before crossing the border to Canada, earning big laughs from the audience.

The setlist was a well-curated mix of old favourites and newer material. “Taking Things for Granted” had the crowd cheering from the first chord, while “We’re All Gonna Die” turned existential dread into a sing-along moment of catharsis. Halfway through her set, she launching into an acoustic set that ended with The Beatles’ “Blackbird.” The emotional peak of the night came with “Flowers”. The room fell into a reverent hush, hanging on every word.

Her show left everyone a little lighter, a little more understood. If you haven’t seen Joy Oladokun live yet, do yourself a favour—her music hits different in a packed room full of love. More tour info on her website.

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