‘Lovers & Friends‘ returned and brought with it one of the most seismically stacked lineups of the modern music era.
Fusing the best in R&B, Hip-Hop, and Pop, the electrifying extravaganza played host to a seemingly endless array of heavyweights – delivering an unforgettable experience for the 80,000-plus revelers in attendance.
That Grape Juice was on hand at the Las Vegas Festival Grounds housed event and were wowed in earnest.
As we catch our breath from the epic spectacle, join us below as TGJ recaps our top 5 moments from ‘Lovers & Friends’…
Usher’s Electrifying Set
Reminding why he is the contemporary era’s unquestionable King of R&B, the veteran showed up and showed out with a set that thrilled from the first chord to the last.
A roller coaster of sharp showmanship and colossal bops (and oh were there many), Usher’s set – for us – was the hands-down most stunning of the night.
Already a seasoned performer, the sheen and shine of his Vegas residency were apparent. More than a performance, this superstar put on a show. One complete with guest appearances from the likes of Summer Walker, Ari Lennox, and Jermaine Dupri.
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Christina Aguilera Brings the Heat
Xtina possesses a talent and portfolio that permeates any and every space. As such, we were elated to see her on the bill for this largely Urban affair.
Tailoring her set accordingly, Aguilera amazed with universally loved lituations like ‘Lady Marmalade’ and ‘Dirrty’ – bringing out Lil Kim and Redman much to the approval of the audience. The rarely performed ‘Tell Me’ was also revived for the occasion, which we (and the capacity crowd) appreciated in earnest.
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Mariah Carey and Boyz II Men Reunite
With any Mimi performance, high notes, whistles, and iconic hand-waving are all to be expected. And with a talent as towering as this legend, it’s well understood that all that’s needed is that incredible voice and those incredible songs.
Yet, oh what an added treat it is when guests join her. Especially when said guests are none other than Boyz II Men.
Carey surprised the capacity crowd with the R&B trio and together the quad delivered a dynamite showing of their record-breaking #1 smash ‘One Sweet Day.’
Few experiences can compare to witnessing 80,000 people in united chorus belting one of the biggest hits of all time with the legends who created it. Magic.
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Chris Brown Blazes ‘Em
Say what folk will about C. Breezy (and much has indeed been said after his “eventful” weekend), but there’s no denying his ability to blaze a stage. Nor his toweringly tall collection hits.
From the second he appeared to the moment he exited, Brown proved a magnetic fireball of energy on stage – delivering a scorching set that further cements his status as one of music’s most unshakeable talents.
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Missy Elliott Returns
Fresh from the announcement of her upcoming induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame’s Class of 2023, Missy Elliott made a rare and rousing showing.
Backed by an army of dancers, the multifaceted maestra dazzled with gargantuan smashes from her catalog as well as those that she crafted for others.
The icing on the cake? A surprise appearance from Monica.
Much like the festival at large, Elliott’s set reminded that great music and the artists that champion it are ever-enduring.
