By Doug Sims
Photos by Staff Photographer Ronald Parker
Cary, NC — On a warm North Carolina evening, soul music royalty graced the stage as Chrisette Michele performed live at Smooth Jazz at the Improv, located at 1224 Parkside Main Street in Cary. The venue was packed to capacity, with a sold-out crowd eagerly anticipating the return of one of R&B’s most distinctive and beloved voices.
From the very first note of her explosive opener, “Super Chris,” Michele made it clear—this wasn’t just a show, it was a statement. Dressed in timeless elegance and radiating confidence, she commanded the stage with precision and passion. The crowd met her with thunderous applause, some rising to their feet immediately, feeding off her vibrant energy.
She followed up with “Let’s Rock,” a rhythm-driven standout that showcased her vocal agility and charismatic stage presence. With every lyric, Michele demonstrated why she continues to captivate audiences years into her career.
The mood shifted into something more intimate with “Epiphany,” her poignant breakup ballad that brought audible reactions from the audience. Eyes closed, hands on hearts—fans weren’t just listening, they were feeling. Her delivery was raw yet refined, dripping with the kind of honesty that only Chrisette Michele can deliver.
But it was the show’s grand finale that etched the night into memory. As the first chords of “A Couple of Forevers” echoed through the room, couples leaned into one another and the entire space swelled with emotion. Her voice soared, pure and powerful, blanketing the audience in warmth and nostalgia.
And just when it felt like the night couldn’t get any more heartfelt, Michele ended with “Blame It On Me,” the breakup ballad that solidified her place in soul music history. Her vocals cut through the silence, each note a masterclass in storytelling, healing, and grace. The standing ovation that followed wasn’t just well-earned—it was inevitable.
Chrisette Michele’s performance in Cary wasn’t just a concert—it was a celebration of resilience, artistry, and timeless soul. If last night proved anything, it’s that she remains a force in music, continuing to evolve while staying true to the emotional core that first captured hearts around the world.