Lloyd will Forever be Timeless, and I am here for it

By Kelsei Brianna

Can we talk about how Lloyd has such undying hits? I mean, he dropped his debut album Southside, in 2004 and we are still bumping songs from that record. It needs to be studied by a class of Harvard students, the way he has classics like that. Think about— Player's Prayer — come on now. Tell me that is not a hit. He is speaking to generation after generation but, I do not think y'all are hearing him. His lyrics are real and TRU. He is speaking about love, life, and personal growth in this world. A world that moves so fast and most not even think to pause and take a breather. I admire artists who unapologetically pour themselves into their music. An artist who is raw and uncut in their lyrics. It speaks volumes on how they value their craft. It adds depth to the artist and allows the listeners to appreciate the artists' process and understand them further. It is almost like me as a writer. Simply put, Lloyd is genuine and accomplished— rightfully so— in what he does and is still booked and busy in 2024 while his most recent project was released in 2018. Let that sink in.

To be completely transparent, I was only three or four years old when Lloyd hit the music scene(solo). So, I did not have any business listening to Lloyd at such a young age but let me tell you, when Lay It Down was released in 2019, that song went triple platinum in my purple and florally decorated tween room. I honestly think that played a role in my musical awakening, where I truly found out the mic was on for many artists. Lloyd introduced me to real music— that heart touching R&B my mother would play in the car ride home after a long day of breaking hearts in the playground — and an angelic voice. You was released in 2007 and we were singing ever word, because "Can I be for real," no seriously ... can I?

Lloyd talked and partied with the crowd before performing timeless hits. (Kelsei Brianna/2024)

The reason I dub Lloyd as such a timeless artist is because I recently saw him perform and was reintroduced to his greatness. Reader, months later and I am still star struck. You have the entire venue tapping into core memories of their high school sweetheart and finding themselves shedding a single tear while singing Tru, a song that was released six years ago. Granted, six years is not that long ago but that is still a hit. It is 2024 and I do not even want to hear the DJ play the latest trending song or a sped-up version of something that blew up on TikTok, hand me the aux cord, I am playing Caramel! (Side bar: Caramel by Lloyd was my anthem in 2019 during my freshman year of undergrad. Certified Classic.)

This was my second concert this year— the first being Drake, J.Cole, and Sexyy Red — and I was living for it. This performance was at a local upscale event venue-turned-lounge in mid-city Baton Rouge called Eleven XI. The vibes were giving intimate and informal– in the most enjoyable aspect possible. Funny things is, I have been saying that I would love to see anyone perform in a smaller setting similar to this. This type of concert experience gives music lovers the opportunity to connect with the artist and vice versa.

Another pro is, it is very inexpensive. A big name such as Lloyd, tickets would be inching towards a few hundred bucks, and that is not even floor seat. Local nightclubs, bars, and event venues are making smarter moves to put their business on the map by inviting artist and guests to perform at their venues. Not to get too into marketing technicalities but, this tactic attracts a target audience, builds business rapport, all while having fun.

Attending this 'mini' concert was a part of my solo date series that I have been accomplishing every month this year thus far. The solo date rules are simple— spend a day (or night) with myself to continue to learn how to love myself, become most comfortable with being alone, and make time for myself — I can confidently say this April date was a 10/10. I look forward to attending another concert this year, but always remember; "She's FINE too, but I want you!"