Concert Review: Joy and Humility at the Ryman Auditorium

By Kailey Ragland 

On Thursday, March 27, 2025, a Nashville audience was buzzing with excitement to see Joy Oladokun perform her largest headlining show—and there was no disappointment to be found.

It’s not every day that an artist thanks their tour manager on the Ryman Auditorium stage, but that is exactly how Oladokun kicked off the show. Thanking each bandmate, her tour manager, front of house, and her film crew, there was a sense of depth and care that was refreshing compared to most mainstream performances these days. From her stage presence to new music releases, it is clear that a new light is shining from this artist, a light backed by an honest sense of humility.

Flowing through a setlist that volleyed between acoustic indie and rock, and some impressive swing-influenced breakdowns, Joy spoke briefly on how her upbringing has shaped her latest album release. Notably religious topics were approached sensibly, but with passion. Equality took the reigns as Oladokun stated, “If God exists, they care about how you treat people, and not who you kiss,” reflecting on her personal relationships with transparency. 

Referred to as “Trailblazing, enigmatic, and eclectic,” by special guest and stellar rapper Brian Brown, Joy performed each song in a way that truly captured the audience. A natural storyteller at heart, Nashville has been lucky enough to catch the artist around town at local hangouts, the Love Rising benefit, and opening for John Mayer, but there was a hidden challenge the artist recently overcame. 

Joy’s latest release, ‘Observations From A Crowded Room’, was released in late 2024. Despite shining reviews from several media outlets, and outstanding fan response, Joy Oladokun was dropped from her record label before the deluxe version could be released. Speaking on this openly at the event, Joy stated that the only way she could continue as an artist is because she did not sign a 360 deal. 

Though, this was Joy Oladokun’s largest ticketed headlining show to date, at the infamous Ryman Auditorium, with custom Hatch Show Print posters ready at the door. 

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