Omar Apollo performs at The Anthem on Nov. 17, 2022. (Photo by Katie Child)

Professionally known as Omar Apollo, Omar Apolonio Velasco hit DC’s The Anthem on last week’s chilly Thursday night. 

Just two days after being nominated for the Grammy’s Best New Artist Award, Apollo sold-out the 6,000-person capacity venue, and more than validated his impressive nomination.

Opening the show at The Anthem on Nov. 17 was Ravyn Lenae, who hyped the crowd up while awaiting Apollo’s debut. With her two instrumental accompaniments, Lenae carried the attention of the crowd with her stellar vocals and harmonious dance moves. 

The sense of community was incredibly strong at Omar’s DC show, though I’m sure he brings that sense of togetherness wherever he goes. With extreme pride in his Mexican heritage, Apollo broke up his R&B hits (sung in English) with various Mexican-inspired Mariachi-style songs (sung in Spanish). Apollo even projected a massive Mexican flag on the backdrop behind him while he sat closely between two other guitarists as they played some of his most popular Spanish songs. Even from the very back of the second floor of the venue, within sight, there were best friends, couples, and children dancing together and rolling the fast-paced lyrics off of their tongues with passion. 

Listen to Omar Apollo’s newest album, Ivory, here on Spotify.

Back in DC just six months after playing at 9:30 Club in May, Apollo’s success is clear. His vast range between genres and his overall bubbly and dynamic energy no doubt play huge roles in his increasing success. 

Omar Apollo’s setlist:

1. Ivory
2. Killing Me
3. Talk
4. Useless
5. Ugotme
6. Kickback
7. Archetype
8. En El Olvido
9. Dos Uno Nueve (219)
10. Frío
11. Highlight
12. Endlessly
13. Petrified
14. Invincible
15. Tamagotchi
16. Kamikaze
17. Bad Life
18. Hey Boy
19. Mr. Neighbor
20. Want U Around
21. Evergreen
22. Go Away

Here are some photos of Omar Apollo performing at The Anthem on Nov. 17, 2022. All pictures copyright and courtesy of Katie Child.