Fans braved the bitter cold Friday in Cleveland to enjoy the awaited return of R&B singer Fantasia, who was in town in support of headlining 2019 Sketchbook tour and like-titled album. The temperature changed in the room when The Bonfyre took the stage. The sultry blonde and new comer to the industry was able to warm the crowd with her stellar vocals and easy listening style.

 

Things continued to heat up when Robin Thicke took the stage next, with his sweet soulful R&B sounds. Thicke who is a current panelist on Fox’s, The Masked Singer made sure to sing his smash hit “Lost Without U” and a few other ballads including his latest single “When You Love Somebody”. Thicke brought the energy up in the room even more by performing “Blurred Lines”, and the venue erupted into screams as fans began dancing in the aisles. Then Thicke himself proceeded to join them, much to the delight of fans that were lucky to be close to the singer. Before leaving the stage Robin hopped atop of the piano and did a quick dance reminiscent of the late James Brown.

Finally it was time for Fantasia herself to set the stage ablaze! Opening with the song “History”, off her seventh studio album. The singer had set the tone for what was sure to be an energetic and lively show and the fans sensed this from the moment the singer removed her shoes by the third song in.

Fantasia took fans on a journey that night. Allowing them to feel an array of emotions as she and her dancers made their way through her hits including “Free Yourself” and “Truth Is” and always a favorite, “Lose to Win”. Throughout the evening she would remind fans of the importance of paying attention to their spiritual needs, self worth, and that no matter the circumstances they are worthy. A touching moment in the show was when she spotted the fan who had told her earlier in the meet & greet, that it was her music that helped get her through after the loss of her dog. Fantasia took time to share a few kind words with her. She also called out a few people in the audience she thought were too busy taking photos, and not fully appreciating the experience. It was hard not to enjoy this show, there was a lot going on including a perfectly executed performance of Bell Biv Devoe’s, “Poison”.

 

The Grammy award winner’s star has continued to shine throughout the years after being catapulted into the spotlight since her time on American Idol. There she won season three of the popular singing competition. Fantasia would go on to release numerous studio albums, star on Broadway, has won many awards, and dominated many music charts. There has even been a TV movie made about her life.

It doesn’t appear anything is going to dim her star either. Many artists lack staying power, but not true with Fantasia, as she’s proven to be a bonafide superstar. Cleveland was just one of many dates on her Sketchbook tour there are still plenty of dates available for you to catch this legend in person!

Photos & review by: Tanise Werner

BONFYRE

ROBIN THICKE

 

FANTASIA