I love concerts and had seen 95% of the artist already. I was disappointed in Charlie Wilson, he was late and didn't apologize. It was too late for him to try to do his entire show that I've seen at least 5 times. I think his ego has gotten the best of him. Don't get me wrong, I love CW but I liked him better 4 years ago...much more humbling. Natalie Cole did her thang. She was awesome! Gerald Albright and Norman Brown were the highlight of the evening. Love Jazz. Bring more Jazz!
Saturday night...most memorable and enjoable was Kenny G. Monica, although I love her voice and music, she was out of her league. Ledisi was great, missed Will Downing due to traffic....that's another story.
Sunday night RaJazz was awesome…the opening act. To be honest, they did a better job than Jill Scott closing act. Kem was good but I've seen better when he's in a smaller venue were he’s the headliner. Dave Koz and BeBe Winans performance was awesome.
Now to Jill Scott. I love Jill Scott and have seen her at least 4 times. She's usually a lot better depending on the crowd and venue, but I didn't enjoy her show at all. Not sure what's going on with her but I know she can do better.
This was my first time going to HJF and maybe the last. I drove from DC and booked a room in Suffolk. It was further away, but I managed to beat all of the traffic by staying in the opposite direction of all the traffic. I was only on I64 for 5 mins….I took I664 and there was no traffic going into Hampton area. However, the traffic leading to the Coliseum is horrible. But, folks seemed patient and there weren't any incidents that I'm aware of. The food at the venue needs improving.
Some advice, ladies dress comfortable, walking from the parking lot to the Coliseum can be treacherous with heels on. Just wear some cute flat sandals and a long sundress and you will be fine. I tend to get cold however, it was really warm in there to me. The sound was not great, but it wasn't so terrible like most have complained about.