Fantasía et Anthony Hamilton

TV talent shows aren't known for delivering what they promise. There's usually little in the way of any actual talent, and those who win are quickly forgotten after that inevitable (yawn) Christmas number one. But while the likes of Shane Ward (Shane who?) have to settle for singing at supermarket opening ceremonies, American Idol winner Fantasia is riding high on the wave of success. It's no surprise, then, that Fantasia's latest tour has sold out on both sides of the pond. Bringing her inimitable R&B to The Academy, Fantasia sets the bar high for slow jams and pumped-up soul anthems alike. Tonight's crowd is made up of R&B aficionados looking for some new blood to bounce and sway to - and Fantasia doesn't disappoint. Opening up with the Emeli Sandé-penned "Lose to Win," Fantasia's soaring gospel vocals fill the room from floor to ceiling with soulful notes as she effortlessly belts out the highs and lows, bounding across the stage with endless energy that demands the audience oblige to her demands to "stand up and party!" In between songs, Fantasia interacts with the fans with a warmth and humour that many artists lack. Far from arrogance and egotism, Fantasia exudes humility and grace - and the fans love her for it. The most refreshing aspect of Fantasia's live show? Her sheer lack of diva-isms. She's so down to earth she's practically on the floor, engaging her audience like a group of friends with her infectious playfulness. But the real star of the show is that voice. The phenomenal sound of Fantasia makes hairs stand on end with a prickle of emotion and empathy. She's balanced, lighthearted, soulful - and actually talented. No charity fundraisers for this reality TV winner: she's here to fill stadiums.

Anthony Hamilton has one of the most soulful and angelic voices in the R&B genre and seeing one of his live performances is almost like a religious experience.
During his performances he is usually backed by a myriad of talented musicians and sometimes even a full orchestra. There are horns, woodwinds, cellos, and violins that gracefully play atmospheric warm tones creating an emotive soundscape for Anthony Hamilton to belt out his soulful voice that makes the audience raise their hands and sway to the music. When an orchestra backs Anthony Hamilton, the orchestra usually crescendos up to the apex of an emotive experience and Anthony Hamilton’s voice rises above the loud sound of the orchestra to demonstrate his passion and vocal force.
During more traditional performances Anthony Hamilton tours with a backing band consisting of a keyboarder, a drummer, a guitarist, a bass player, and several backup singers. The backup singers act as a choir singing the soulful harmonies of the music while Anthony Hamilton acts as a religious focal point preaching his gospel with his soulful, charismatic voice. The keyboard player performs on a keyboard that has a smooth bell like sound and plays very vibrant jazz like chords laying down a smooth vibe. Anthony Hamilton has a wide vocal range, jumping up and down octaves hitting the most difficult notes imaginable, and soulfully breaking into a melisma that will have everyone in awe.
Anthony Hamilton has a great stage presence dressing in suave clothing and a fashionable fedora. He gracefully struts around the stage and dances in the smoothest way that will have the audience fully engaged. To hear Anthony Hamilton’s deep, rich voice grace the presence of your bare ear in a live setting is one of the most inspirational experiences that music has to offer.