Nostalgic Night Features Special Performances and Youth Engagement
Janet Jackson brought youthful energy to her typically mature concert during a sold-out performance in Los Angeles on Saturday night. The iconic singer infused the evening with nostalgia, performing alongside the LA Phil’s Youth Orchestra Los Angeles (YOLA), which features 16 talented young musicians.
In a heartfelt moment, Jackson performed her 1993 ballad “Again,” engaging with an 11-year-old percussionist from the orchestra. “Tonight is very special to me because we’re here to support LA Phil,” she told the enthusiastic audience, who rose to their feet in appreciation. Jackson honored the YOLA program, which provides around 1,700 young musicians with free instruments, music instruction, academic support, and leadership training.
The young percussionist shared how she discovered YOLA through social media, expressing her excitement at being part of the program. After their conversation, Jackson invited her to participate in the special performance, which captivated the audience as they captured the moment on their phones.
Conducted by Thomas Wilkins, the orchestra accompanied Jackson for “Again,” a track from her fifth studio album that received an Oscar nomination for its role in the film “Poetic Justice.” Following this collaboration, Jackson transitioned back to her signature hits, delivering powerful renditions of “Any Time, Any Place,” “I Get Lonely,” “That’s the Way Love Goes,” “Nasty,” “Control,” and “Scream,” a duet with her late brother, Michael Jackson.
The concert attracted several notable attendees, including “Fast X” stars Michelle Rodriguez and Jordana Brewster, along with actors Larenz Tate and Lil Rel Howery. Ludacris, who opened the show with a high-energy 35-minute set, was supported by his co-stars as he performed hits like “What’s Your Fantasy,” “Area Codes,” and “Welcome to Atlanta.” Tate was seen dancing in the aisles, joining fellow concertgoers in celebrating the rapper’s performance.
After his set, Ludacris mingled with the audience, chatting with his “Fast X” castmates before the start of Jackson’s much-anticipated show. With a stellar lineup and memorable moments, the concert showcased not only Jackson’s enduring talent but also her commitment to supporting the next generation of musicians.
