There are times when you come across an artist and they completely challenge your expectations in a way that leaves you reeling after you’ve heard and seen them perform live for the first time. Sammy Rae & The Friends was that band for me. It took only one performance to make me a believer in their magic.

Sammy Rae & The Friends are deep-rooted in soul, funk and R&B. Sammy Rae, backed by her incredible band, their performance at The Fillmore in Philly had me grinning from ear to ear. And make no mistake – this band is meant to be heard by the naked ear.

Before anyone sings a note, before the first drumbeat, the crowd buzzes with energy. The audience is in complete uproar when the band finally hits the stage. The stage simmers with the performance. Weaving between up-tempo numbers with metaphoric lyrics conveying powerful messages, Sammy Rae & The Friends take us on a life journey. As the set moved along and the party intensified, it was obvious that the band dialed in its sound.

Though her incredible voice and energy were a large part of the concert experience, Sammy Rae’s presence on stage was about spreading love to her bandmates, ensuring the audience had a very clear understanding of how crucial each member was to the equation. Every member brings the energy to an even greater level of expectation. Every one of them had many moments to share that night.

The band’s energy on the stage is why they continue to grow their fan base with no end in sight. Making them feel like old friends is one way to ensure they will come back for more, and making sure they have a great time is another. Sammy Rae & The Friends did both extremely well.