Charlie Watson
I arrived excited, just another fan with general admission, ready to sing my heart out under the city lights. Instead, the night began on a sobering note. In 20-degree weather, guests were held outside as security openly solicited $50 payments for entry, creating an uncomfortable moment that clashed with the spirit of what Girls Love Karaoke represents. It was disappointing, especially for a space rooted in joy, community, and music.
But once inside, all of that faded the moment Kehlani took the stage.
A Harbor Transformed by Kehlani’s Presence
The NYC Harbor venue instantly became something softer, warmer, and electric. Phones lit up the night like constellations as Kehlani emerged, effortlessly commanding the room with an intimacy that felt personal, almost sacred. It wasn’t a formal concert. It was a shared experience, the kind that reminds you why live music still matters.
Kehlani delivered a soul-stirring performance of “Folded,” her Grammy-nominated single, letting every lyric breathe as the crowd sang along word for word. The emotion in the room was palpable, a collective release wrapped in harmonies and honesty. She followed with fan favorites like “Honey”, “Distraction,” drawing cheers that shook the venue, and even surprised the crowd with Jordan Adetunji’s “Kehlani,” turning the moment into a full-circle celebration of influence and love.
Girls Love Karaoke, Elevated
Hosted by Girls Love Karaoke, the night embodied exactly what the platform stands for: freedom, femininity, and unapologetic self-expression. What’s typically a karaoke-driven party transformed into a headline-worthy moment, blurring the line between fan and artist in the most beautiful way.
A Femme Fatale Moment in the Crowd
The energy wasn’t just on stage. The room was filled with powerful women shaping the culture in real time. Lola Brooke, Mya the Don, and Honey Bxby were all in attendance, adding to what felt like a true girl power moment. It wasn’t about clout or cameras, it was about presence, solidarity, and celebrating women winning loudly in the same space.
The Takeaway
Despite the rocky start outside, Kehlani reminded everyone inside why she remains one of the most magnetic performers of her generation. Her ability to turn a karaoke night into a transcendent R&B experience speaks to her authenticity and star power. At the NYC Harbor, Girls Love Karaoke wasn’t just an event, it was a moment.
And Kehlani didn’t just perform. She held the room.
GIPHY App Key not set. Please check settings