On Wednesday night, fans of Joseph Somers-Morales (better known as SoMo), were living out a fantasy when the singer brought his “Wide Awake Tour” to the Phoenix Concert Theatre.
For those who don’t know the R&B crooner, the Texas native gained notoriety by uploading popular renditions of current and old hits songs to YouTube. In 2012, he independently released a mixtape called My Life which showcased his dynamic vocals and songwriting abilities. The mixtape spawned his the hit single “Ride”. His growing popularity garners the attention of other R&B singers such as Trey Songz and Ginuwine. With the success of ”Ride” and his sold out headline shows, SoMo signed to Republic Records. His self-titled debut album entered at #6 on the Billboard charts and “Ride” achieved gold status. For fall 2014, SoMo tours with newcomer, Francesco Yates in support of his debut.
Those who attended the show at the Phoenix were not only treated to an intimate showcase of SoMo, but got to witness the young man who already has Pharrell Williams and Justin Timerberlake rooting for his success. 19 year old Canadian singer, Francesco Yates has been giving audience a taste of his yet to be released debut. His performance was particularly memorable, not because of his curly afro but his take on modern R&B and pop were perfectly matched for the singer’s ripe vocals. Yates was obviously a great opener choice for this tour.
It was time for Mr. Somers-Morales to hit the stage. As the intro plays, SoMo wanted his fans to know his dreams were reality because of them. And that the Wide Awake Tour was made with them in mind so prepared to be seranaded and adored. He performed an eclectic mix of songs which included original materials (“Kings and Queens”, “We Can Make Love”) and famous covers (J. Cole’s “Work Out” and Ginuwine’s “Pony”). SoMo’s performance was filled with R&B spirit. His sentimental style is not only passionate but clearly palpable. The ladies in attendance were compelled by the singer’s vocals and his exquisitely blessed abs. Any questions about his notoriety might be put to rest after listening to his rendition of Drake’s songs from Take Care album (“Take Care Medley”). He closed out with his breakout single “Ride” and thanked everyone for living out his dream with him.
