Last night, my brother and I hit the town for a little sibling bonding. And what better way to do so than to watch Olivia Dean perform her sold-out show, ‘The Art of Loving’ at Madison Square Garden (MSG)? 

Our night started at the exclusive UMusic Shop NY activation right next door to MSG. The UMusic Shop NY is a permanent retail space that hosts events and experiences throughout the year. From the cheetah print carpet to the burgundy drapes that cascaded down the walls, I was instantly transported to the jazzy and soulful world of Olivia Dean. The environment was warm and inviting with a photo activation and curated, exclusive event merchandise in every corner of the room including clothing, accessories, vinyls and digitally signed prints of Dean.

After the event, we headed into the arena not knowing what to expect. I walked in believing I didn’t know much about Dean’s music, but my love for live music kept me intrigued. As the lights dimmed, the thin veil on stage reflecting lights of pink and purple hues stared back at us. All of a sudden, a spotlight appeared with the silhouette of Olivia Dean and the crowd erupted into screams as the veil opened and she commenced the show singing ‘Nice To Each Other,’ the second song on her hit album ‘The Art of Loving.’ 

Once again, like the UMusic Shop, the stage was transformed into Dean’s own personal jazz lounge with a full Jazz band elegantly dressed in evening wear dresses and tailored suits. Dean looked stunning styled by Simone Beyene in a black sleek, embellished halter dress. Her blown out curls flowed perfectly while her makeup felt fresh and effortless courtesy of hairstylist, Rachel Polycarpe and makeup artist, Aimee Twist.

I was truly in awe of her voice, as it reminded me of why I hold such an appreciation for live music; it can never compare to what you hear on the radio or social media. Her powerful and soulful voice filled the arena and I was amazed at not only how incredible she is as a vocalist but also what a true musician she is! For two hours straight, not only did she sing (and the mic was on!), but she played the guitar, piano, tambourine, and danced around shaking maracas in the shape of a yellow bedazzled banana. 

As someone who is not familiar with Dean and her music, I was impressed and entertained the whole show by her talent and stage presence, but also moved by her interludes of thoughtful words. 

Dean spoke in depth about the power of loving not only others but more importantly finding self love. Reflecting on the intention behind writing her newest album, she referred to an excerpt from one of her favorite books, ‘All About Love’ by Bell Hooks. Dean said “to truly love another person in your life, and that doesn’t have to be romantically, that could be a friend, that could be a family member; but to truly love them is to want them to be the best version of themselves.”

As I stood there next to my younger brother, I didn’t believe words could be any more true. Throughout my life, holding the title of the older sister is no small feat but I carry it with honor. I know that I have a duty, and that is to be a guide, protector and teacher for my brother. I not only want the absolute best for him but I always want to encourage him to be the best version of himself. The love of family is so strong and should be sacredly cherished.

I was specifically touched by Dean’s song dedicated to her grandmother, titled ‘Carmen’. She prefaced the song with an acknowledgement to all immigrants, like her grandmother who immigrated to the UK from Guyana. As she paid homage, I couldn’t help but think about my late grandmother, Barbara Mason who was also an immigrant.

I thought about how similar the immigrant story is of leaving home, starting over and pushing through hardships off of the strength of the love for family and to create a world for future generations to succeed and flourish. I think about how proud Olivia’s grandmother must be of her and how proud my grandmother must be watching over me and all that I have accomplished and strive to be. As the song goes, “you reigned over a family tree, and I’ll carefully carry the seeds.”

Overall, my brother and I had an amazing sibling night out and I left the Garden last night a new fan of Olivia Dean. I’m so happy I got to experience a show dedicated to love and family with my own family. Love is all around us and it’s our responsibility as humans to find love in all that we do and love others the way we want to be loved. We all deserve to have love whether that be from friends, family or lovers. 

As the Bible reminds us, “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not boast, it is not proud.” The truest and purest love we all seek in this life is attainable as long as we search for it within ourselves before we yearn for it from others, and in the words of Olivia Dean, “don’t let anyone hold you back and say that they love you at the same time.”

Author: Breanna Harmon

Read the original article on Essence.