Jessie J at the Danforth Music Hall

Photographs by Angelo Marchini.

It wasn’t long ago, the name Jessica Cornish was a credit on someone else’s track. Three albums later, Miss Cornish better known by her stage name Jessie J, is sweet talking her way across the pond with her powerful voice. The 27-year-old British native performs a sold out show at the Danforth Music Hall.  It’s been ages since Jessie has graced Toronto with her presence. She promises an evening with her will be a special one.

Before Jessie stepped on stage, “Uptown Funk” can be heard on the speakers. This entrance theme seems fitting for the natural-born diva.  Rocking a new blue hair-due, Jessie opens with “Ain’t Been Done” and fan-favorite “Domino” which featured her six piece band. She proudly displays Toronto’s name in white letters across a black sheer tank top, that covered her black bra and high wasted black undergarments, while wearing patent high heeled ankle boots.

The 85 minute concert was a journey filled with impressive vocals, flashy lights, and candid moments. “The world wants real “she says, and that’s what we got last night. Jessie announces she was suffering from a head cold and spent the entire day surrounded by antibiotics.  Although she has been physically sick, “I wasn’t going to cancel” she said followed by echoes of cheers. Her love for Toronto fans was evident and appreciated by all.

The set list was filled with memorable hits including “Nobody’s Perfect”, “Do It Like A Dude”  “Burnin’ Up”, an impromptu performance of “Mama Knows Best” and “Price Tag” as part of her encore.  Each performance we saw different sides of the singer – the diva, the comic, and the humble.  With her obvious raw talent, Jessie tells fans she’s still a working progress before singing “Masterpiece”. She urged everyone to just be themselves and to challenge their dreams.

In true Jessie fashion, she ends big! For her finale, she performs mega hit “Bang Bang” while sporting a black/white long sleeve jersey crop top.  She says, “Toronto, you are hands down my favourite audience of this tour”.  And just like that, an evening with Jessie J was over.  I gotta admit, it turned out to be pretty sweet.

Thanks to Embrace Presents for media access.