The Black Mona Lisa

[mrdreamjeans]

“Religion is man-made. Spirituality is a blessing.” This quote from Queer gender fluid singer/actor Billy Porter was just one of the pointed asides peppered throughout his concert last evening at The State Theater in Minneapolis. The powerful, rangy voice of Porter was put to good use as he entertained the audience for 2.5 hours, only leaving the stage to change one astonishing outfit for the next.

Billy’s “Black Mona Lisa Tour” has recently hit the road, traveling around the country where, ably backed by a five-piece band, he preaches a message of hope, inclusivity and authenticity to one’s self. Yes, he’s overtly political and profane, but his message is real, one everyone needs to hear!

The intensely charismatic Porter divided his performing life into segments. Song selections were divided by recorded clips projected on a huge screen above the onstage musicians. He sang material from his early albums in the 1990’s to cuts from his album to be released in September this year. Stylistically, he went from rock to Broadway to Gospel and club music. Porter was raised in the Pentecostal Church and it is imprinted on every choice he made.

My favorite moments were selections from Kinky Boots and “Home” from The Wiz, a Gospel approach to Kelly Clarkson’s hit “Stronger” and his closing song, the quietly beautiful “Authenticity”. His final encore, “I Will Survive” had the audience on its feet dancing!

There was one downside to the concert! The sound was so loud, the band overshadowed Billy Porter’s vocals, a seemingly impossible task. Unless, a fan was familiar with his material, you couldn’t understand a single lyric. I imagine Porter was confused by the audience response. We were on his side if we had understood what he was saying/singing! It was an older, enthusiastic audience eager for his message. No matter! It was a highly entertaining concert by the Black Mona Lisa!