Monday night, music enthusiasts gathered at the iconic Mercury Lounge in New York City to witness a spectacular showcase of diverse musical talents at the “Vivien L.: DANCE TO THE HEARTBREAK”, organized by the International Asian Culture Society. The event was a
stunning testament to the unifying power of music, bringing together exceptional artists from different cultural backgrounds to deliver an unforgettable performance.
The concert showcased the incredible range of Vivien L.’s talents, as she took center stage and captivated the audience with an original set list of 13 songs, including some that had never been performed before. From EDM to R&B, Blues to Pop Rock, the set list was a delightful blend of various genres that left the audience yearning for more.
The concert kicked off with a captivating performance by Eliza Spear, a talented singer based in Brooklyn. The lineup also included an impressive roster of featured artists, including jazz singer Angelina Kolobukhova, Funk and Blues musician Cale, and EDM producer SINHA. Each artist brought their own unique musical background and style to the stage, resulting in a truly unforgettable experience that celebrated the richness of diverse talents and cultures. The concert was a testament to the power of music to bring people from different backgrounds together, united by a shared passion for art and creativity. The audience was left in awe of the incredible talent on display and the message of unity and inclusivity that the concert embodied.
One of the most unforgettable moments of the show was the collaboration between Vivien and Ben Fears, the lead singer of Qu!et For The Neighbors. The duo performed “Shhh!,” a popular single co-written by Vivien and Ben. The performance was nothing short of magical and showcased the close bond that the two artists share.
Vivien also paid homage to her Asian roots by singing two Mandopop (Chinese pop) ballads, “Lingering” and “Better Get Lost.” Vivien said “I never felt this proud when greeting the
audience in my mother tongue Chinese. I am proud of myself and all the Asian artists who made their way onto the stage in this country and speak up for our culture and background.”
The concert went beyond a mere musical performance and also incorporated artistic elements. Ye Chen, a talented motion artist, contributed to the show by creating interactive visualizers that
were perfectly synchronized with the live music. This innovative use of new media not only enhanced the overall experience but also captivated the audience, leaving them mesmerized. Chen’s contribution added a new level of excitement to the concert, making it a truly unforgettable experience.
Vivien’s approach to music writing highlights her love for contrast, as she pairs somber lyrics
with upbeat and delightful music to create a unique sound. By placing emphasis on the optimistic attitude towards heartbreak, she encourages her listeners to find strength and positivity in difficult situations.
Despite the heavy subject matter, Vivien emphasized the importance of celebrating these moments of heartbreak rather than drowning in them. She believes that by dancing to the rhythm of life’s challenges, one can adopt an optimistic attitude and find joy even in the saddest of moments. This theme of resilience and hope was a common thread throughout the concert, and it left the audience feeling inspired and fulfilled.
The “DANCE TO THE HEARTBREAK” concert culminated in a breathtaking moment as Vivien L. graced the stage to perform her original song, “Happier Now.” Co-written with her long-time friend, Maxwell Henry, who also played the drums during the concert, the song
showcased Vivien’s unique ability to blend heartbreak with upbeat and delightful sounds, leaving the audience in awe. This standout moment perfectly captured the essence of Vivien’s signature
style, as she brought her soulful lyrics and mesmerizing vocals to life on stage. It was truly a performance to remember, and the crowd was left feeling energized and inspired by the power of music.
The crowd couldn’t resist singing along to the memorable hook line “I wish that you are happier now,” which brought together all the performers on stage for an unforgettable musical moment. The energy and enthusiasm of the audience and the performers made it a heartwarming and uplifting finale to a remarkable night of music.
As the night progressed, the audience was left spellbound by the soul-stirring performances, each more memorable than the last. Vivien and all the performers bowed, expressing their gratitude to the audience who braved the rainy weather to support them. The concert was a celebration of the power of music to bring people together and transcend cultural boundaries. It was a night that will be etched in the memories of all those who attended for a long time to come.