On Friday, September 20, 2024, Willow Smith graced the Clive Davis Sound Stage at the Grammy Museum for an intimate and electrifying performance reminiscent of MTV’s iconic Unplugged series. With just 200 seats in the audience, fans and music lovers alike were given a rare opportunity to not only witness Willow’s raw musical talent but also dive deep into the mind of the 23-year-old artist as she shared her creative journey.
The evening was more than just a performance—it was an invitation into Willow’s ever-evolving musical world. Through a candid conversation with the audience, Willow walked them through the motivations and emotions behind her critically acclaimed collection of albums, which span an impressive array of genres. She reflected on the experimental neo-soul of her debut album Ardipithecus (2015), the psychedelic folk sounds of WILLOW (2019), the infectious pop-punk energy of lately I feel EVERYTHING (2021), and the daring, hard-hitting rock of COPINGMECHANISM (2022).
Willow’s setlist blended fan favorites with new music from her sixth and most ambitious album to date, Empathogen. Known for constantly pushing musical boundaries, Willow described Empathogen as a project that explores the healing properties of music—how it can evoke deep emotional responses and create a sense of empathy. The album dives into the human psyche, offering both hard-pounding beats and melodic rhythms, making it a sonic experience unlike any other.
During the performance, the audience was treated to the powerful contrasts in Willow’s music. Songs from her early neo-soul and psychedelic folk phases displayed her vocal range and emotional depth, while tracks from Empathogen and her experimental hard rock era delivered an intensity that left the crowd buzzing. Willow seamlessly flowed between different styles, showing that no genre is off-limits in her exploration of sound.
Before the songs, Willow offered the crowd personal insights into her creative process. She discussed how each album reflects different periods of her life, with Empathogen being her most vulnerable and experimental work yet. Her fans were visibly moved by her openness, which made the night feel like more than just a concert—it was a celebration of artistic evolution and authenticity.
By the end of the night, Willow Smith had proven once again that she is not confined to any musical box. Her performance was a testament to her versatility as an artist, and her conversation with the audience made it clear that she is committed to exploring new sonic landscapes, all while staying true to her core message of emotional empowerment and self-discovery.
As the applause filled the Clive Davis Sound Stage, it was evident that this unplugged evening with Willow was more than just a performance—it was an unforgettable experience that connected her deeply with her audience, reminding everyone of the transformative power of music.
Report By Mark Winkler
