A night with Fatai

Last November I was fortunate enough to see Fatai in an intimate lounge session gig. It was honestly one of the best live sessions I have ever been too. I always had it in the back of my head that once I get my writing mojo back I would write about my experience and the thoughts going through my head during this incredible night. So here goes..

Growing up music has been a huge part of my life and probably yours too. What I love about music is it’s a universal language. Where words can’t be spoken, music can step in and convey messages for you. I find with a lot of music these days a good voice is not required and heart felt messages aren’t a must. We look all over the net for international stars on YouTube however do we stop to look at our local artist trying to get their big break in the industry?

I have always been a fan of Fatai (yes since the days she was on the Voice) and followed her ever since. With an authentic sound and creativity in her music covers she automatically made a fan out of me. So to have an opportunity to see her live there was absolutely no question that I was going. The live session was hosted by the Milk Factory in Brisbane City which was perfect for the event. A very cool, calm and collective atmosphere with a great diner and lovely workers. I was so excited and sat patiently waiting for Fatai to start her show.

Her opening act were a local group from Sunshine Coast who absolutely killed it. You could here the raw edge to them and indie/folk influences that were in their music. As I was vibing to their original songs – I looked to the right and Fatai was there enjoying their sweet harmonies. This was so humbling to see that instead of getting last minute preps in she was out here supporting her opening acts. So obviously that won me over even more.

When Fatai finally made it to the stage she opened up with an acoustic version of Hello from Adele. She had re-arranged the song so much that I couldn’t even tell it was an Adele song. With her soulful twang she was able to make it fit her voice and her musical personality. From the word go or shall I say ‘hello’ she had the audience captivated and engaged. She then sang her version of Drake’s one dance and let me tell you now I was fan girling like a 12 year old idiot LOL! Her sense of re-creating is remarkable and the way she puts emotion into these songs as if she wrote it herself is way beyond her years. The night was consistent as she performed more covers and performed originals that related to her new journey in America.

What was even more enticing was the way she would make time to communicate to her audience during each song break. Her messages were always powerful and uplifting, she made it very clear that she wanted you to forget all your worries and just enjoy the music that she was willing to share. She also made it known that she was a firm Christian believer. She had no shame in displaying that and made everyone in the room feel as though love was always accessible. Giving her audience opportunities where they could sing along and feel as one- the atmosphere created was magical.

With a voice so divine and music so heart-warming it was indeed a night I’ll never forget. It made me really appreciate artists who take the time to create music and become their own person. If you enjoy raw talent and music that soothes the soul I would highly recommend Fatai. Only 20 years old with such an exquisite voice- who knows what the future will hold for the beautiful songbird. She most definitely has put Australia on the map so make sure you follow her journey.

Thank you Fatai for a great night !

P.s - Don't forget to check her out on youtube :)