A Marvelous Musical Evening with Grace Kelly

We’re all trying to figure it out.

Musician Grace Kelly treated audiences to a marvelous evening at the Shalin Liu Performance Center in scenic Rockport, MA. Her set list incorporated strong themes about hope, love, and figuring ourselves out in these uncertain times. 

Grace Kelly is an American jazz saxophonist, singer, songwriter, and composer. She has been performing since a young age. In her 20+ years on the stage, Kelly has traveled around the world, performing in different venues. 

The instant Kelly entered the stage, she got a rousing applause from the audience. She wasted no time playing music on her signature saxophone. Then came the question Kelly always enjoys asking, “Any first-timers in the audience?” A few people raised their hands. 

Her set list for the evening combined songs from previous albums, including “At the Movies.” The theme to “Austen Powers” is one of Kelly’s signature songs. She also performed songs from her latest albums. 

Three talented musicians accompanied Kelly on drums, keyboard, and guitar. I always like how Kelly recognizes them during any concert. She gives full recognition and never upstages anyone. One musician has been with Kelly for fifteen years now. 

I never used to be a concert-person, but since becoming an entertainment reviewer, I have made an effort to listen to more music and attend concerts. Concerts are for storytelling. Music is a story. Concert arenas also put the lyrics in a new perspective. 

Between songs, Kelly shared several personal stories about feeling lost, lost love, or feeling free. She also shared an inspiring story about her mother who told her never to give up. This sentiment made audiences smile. No matter how old we get, our mothers' advice is still worthy. 

Kelly also shared stories about how she guest starred in a season 2 episode of “Bosche.” Now, I want to watch this series. Her song, “Blues for Harry Bosch,” is based on the detective Harry Bosch.

Not only does Kelly play the saxophone, but she also has a beautiful rhythmic blues voice. Kelly's firecracker passion lights up the stage as she dances around playing the saxophone and doing hair flips. She also had the audience join in clapping and singing lyrics.

I was so excited when Kelly was going to sing “Trying to Figure it Out.” It’s a song about self-love. If things aren’t going your way now, don’t despair. Hard times are temporary. 

Lyrics include “I will not let the blues take me” and “One step and then another.” Kelly’s rhythmic voice echoed each note beautifully in the auditorium. It’s one of my favorite songs to listen to when I am having a bad day. 

Kelly was performing twice at Shalin Liu, and her first show at 5:00 p.m. was sold out. To anyone who has never been to Shalin Liu, you must see a show here. The acoustics are lovely. Not only do you get to see a concert, but you get to explore the picturesque Rockport. 

The stage overlooks a tall glass window with a stunning ocean backdrop. The scenery often became symbolic in Kelly’s songs. In one piece where she sang about lost love and finding hope, birds were flying around outside. Birds mean freedom. This scene beautifully captured the moment. 

Kelly’s concerts are never over when you think they’re over. Kelly always treats audiences to one final song. Everybody was clapping along as Kelly danced about and showed off incredible skill and range on the saxophone. 

It was another amazing evening in Rockport with Grace Kelly. Kelly’s concerts are something to experience, and this one left audiences feeling happy.