October London and Tamar Braxton deliver R&B magic in Philly

October London and Tamar Braxton Ignite Philly’s Liacouras Center

Last week, Philadelphia’s Liacouras Center transformed into an R&B haven as The Black Promoters Collective brought the October Nights Calling All Lovers tour to town. Headlined by October London and Tamar Braxton, this concert was a soul-stirring blend of nostalgia, raw talent, and electric energy. As a music fan who’s been hitting shows all year, this night stood out as a love letter to R&B’s enduring power. From Tamar’s fiery opening to October’s Marvin Gaye-inspired mastery, here’s why Philly won’t forget this performance.

Tamar Braxton’s Explosive Start

Stepping into the Liacouras Center, I was hit with the full force of Tamar Braxton’s voice, already in mid-set. She was tearing through “All the Way Home” from her 2013 album Love and War, her vocals soaring over a stage lit with shimmering lights. Clad in a dazzling outfit, she moved with purpose, backed by a crew of dancers whose tight choreography brought the song’s emotion to life. The crowd—packed with her devoted “Tay-Martians” and new listeners—was locked in, swaying and singing with fervor.

Tamar’s set was a showcase of her vocal range and charisma. The high point was “Love and War,” a Grammy-nominated classic that still feels fresh. As the opening piano chords echoed, the arena erupted, fans belting out every word alongside her. Tamar’s delivery was raw and commanding, her runs slicing through the air with precision. She also paused to honor her late sister, Traci Braxton, with a heartfelt performance of “Last Call.” The moment was heavy with emotion, and the crowd’s quiet reverence spoke volumes.

Having arrived slightly late, I missed her opening tracks, but what I caught was pure fire. Tamar’s banter with her Tay-Martians—shouting them out with warmth—kept the vibe intimate despite the arena’s size. If there was a flaw, it was that her set felt a touch brief, leaving fans craving more. Still, Tamar Braxton proved she’s a cornerstone of R&B, setting an electrifying tone for the night.

October London’s Soulful Command

When the lights dimmed and October London hit the stage, Philly was ready to lose itself in his world. Dressed in a sharp, tailored suit that screamed classic soul, he opened with “Slander My Name” from his 2023 album The Rebirth of Marvin. The track’s smooth, jazzy groove and London’s silky vocals were like a warm Philly “jawn,” setting the perfect mood. The crowd leaned in, hooked from the first note.
October London’s performance was a masterclass in artistry. His songwriting, often compared to Marvin Gaye’s, blends timeless soul with modern edge. He segued into “She Keeps Calling,” a track that had fans swaying and singing along. His stage presence was effortless—whether gripping the mic stand or gliding across the stage, he owned every moment. It’s the kind of charisma that feels natural, and London made it look easy.

A standout was “Make Me Wanna,” from The Rebirth of Marvin. Its upbeat tempo and infectious hook turned the Liacouras Center into a dance floor, with fans on their feet. London’s nod to Marvin Gaye shone through, not just in his sound but in his ability to forge an emotional bond with the audience. He followed with “Touch On Me,” a sultry number that felt like a nod to R&B’s golden era. Couples held each other, and solo fans vibed just as hard, lost in the moment.

For longtime fans, “You Look Better” was a highlight. The song, a gem in his catalog, showed off London’s knack for lyrics that hit the heart. Philly knew every word, turning the arena into a massive singalong. London’s control was magnetic—he didn’t need elaborate visuals, just his voice and soul. In an age of instant hits, his dedication to musicianship is a rare gift.

Fan Favorites and Snoop’s Cosign

October London’s set was as much about connection as it was about music. He gave a shoutout to Snoop Dogg, his mentor and a vocal supporter who’s championed him since his early days. This added weight to tracks like “Do What You Do,” one of London’s finest. The song’s heartfelt lyrics and polished production had the crowd in a frenzy, with London pouring every ounce of emotion into his delivery. It’s a track that captures his essence—authentic, soulful, and undeniable.

As the night neared its end, London knew he had to deliver his biggest hits. “Mulholland Drive” was a fan favorite, its Marvin-inspired groove and passionate vocals striking a chord. The crowd’s faces lit up with joy, having waited all night for this. Then came a playful twist: London faked an exit, only to return with a grin and launch into “Back to Your Place,” his signature anthem. The Liacouras Center exploded, fans singing so loudly they nearly drowned him out. Some might argue “Do What You Do” is his top track, but “Back to Your Place” was the perfect closer, leaving Philly buzzing.

The Vibe and Venue: Philly’s R&B Sanctuary

The Liacouras Center, with its intimate yet spacious setup, was the ideal stage for this R&B showcase. The acoustics let every note shine, from Tamar’s soaring runs to London’s buttery falsettos. The crowd—a mix of young fans, seasoned R&B heads, and couples on date nights—brought infectious energy. Philly’s love for soul music was clear, with fans dancing in the aisles and cheering every ad-lib.

The Black Promoters Collective deserves credit for curating this tour. Their focus on Black artistry and top-notch production shone through in the seamless transitions, warm lighting, and elegant stage design. The visuals were minimal but effective, letting the music take center stage while adding just enough flair to elevate the experience.

Why This Concert Mattered

The October Nights Calling All Lovers tour stop in Philly was a celebration of R&B’s past and future. Tamar Braxton brought fire and nostalgia, reminding us why she’s a household name with hits like “Love and War” and tributes like “Last Call.” October London, with his Marvin Gaye-inspired artistry and commanding presence, solidified his place as a rising star. Together, they created a night that felt both intimate and explosive, leaving the Liacouras Center glowing.

If you love soulful music that hits deep, this tour is unmissable. Whether you’re a Tay-Martian, an October London devotee, or just someone who craves a good vibe, this show delivers. Philly got a masterclass in R&B, and here’s hoping other cities feel the same magic.