Atlantic City, NJ — Fans of classic and contemporary R&B were treated to an exceptional evening of music at Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall as Eric Benét, Lalah Hathaway, and October London delivered a night filled with powerful vocals, heartfelt performances, and timeless soul.
The evening began with R&B veteran Eric Benét, who wasted no time establishing the night’s smooth and sophisticated atmosphere.
Looking and sounding every bit the seasoned performer, Benét captivated the audience with a collection of hits that have defined his career. Songs such as “Spend My Life With You,” “Sometimes I Cry,” and “Georgy Porgy” drew enthusiastic responses from fans who sang along to every word.
His vocals remained remarkably strong, effortlessly gliding through romantic ballads and soulful grooves while showcasing the artistry that has earned him a loyal following for more than two decades.
Following Benét was Grammy-winning vocalist Lalah Hathaway, whose commanding stage presence and rich, velvety voice immediately elevated the energy inside the venue.
The daughter of soul legend Donny Hathaway demonstrated why she is considered one of the finest vocalists in contemporary R&B. Her performance featured a blend of fan favorites and emotionally charged interpretations that highlighted her incredible range and musicianship.
Whether delivering tender ballads or soulful grooves, Hathaway connected deeply with the audience, earning multiple standing ovations throughout her set.
As impressive as the opening performances were, the night’s biggest celebration came when October London took the stage to close the show. Hathaway hit us with hits like “Forever, For Always, For Love”, “Angel”, “Something”, ‘Something” and “Heaven Knows.
The Death Row Records recording artist brought a stylish blend of vintage soul and modern R&B that resonated with fans across generations. Backed by a tight band and an undeniable charisma, October London performed several of his most popular songs, including “Back to Your Place,” “Mulholland Drive,” “All I Want Is You” and “She Keeps Calling.” His smooth delivery and effortless stage presence kept the audience engaged from beginning to end.
One of the evening’s most memorable moments came during October London’s tribute to neo-soul icon D’Angelo. The heartfelt homage paid respect to one of R&B’s most influential artists and showcased London’s appreciation for the genre’s rich musical heritage. The crowd responded enthusiastically, recognizing both the significance of the tribute and London’s ability to channel the spirit of classic soul while maintaining his own distinctive style.
Throughout his set, October London demonstrated why he has become one of the most talked-about voices in modern R&B. His performance balanced nostalgia with originality, offering listeners a reminder of soul music’s enduring appeal while introducing a fresh perspective for today’s audience.
By night’s end, Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall had witnessed a masterclass in R&B excellence. Eric Benét delivered the timeless hits fans came to hear, Lalah Hathaway showcased vocal artistry at its highest level, and October London brought the evening to a memorable close with a performance that honored the past while embracing the future of soul music.
For those in attendance, it was more than just a concert—it was a celebration of R&B’s enduring legacy and the artists who continue to keep the genre thriving.
