Manchester’s own soulful crooner recently blessed DC’s Howard Theater with a performance that did not disappoint: Daley recently made a stop on The Interlude Tour in the Nation’s Capital!

The crowd filled the theater as opening act ADAMARE band warmed up the Howard Theatre stage on Feb. 25. Their mix of soul, rock and R&B made the crowd snap their fingers and sway to the melodic cocktail being served. It was the perfect way to kick off the night.

Soon after, Daley graced the stage dressed in all black and sporting his signature shades. He came prepared to amaze a put all of us in a trance with nothing more than a three-man band, a stool, and steaming cup of tea. The spotlights shined hues of blues and purples that blanketed him with each beautiful note. He began his 90-minute set with fan favorite song, “Selfish.” The words filled the room as the audience sang along. When the song was over one overzealous fan shouted, “Alone Together! Sing, Alone Together.” Daley laughed and replied, “Hey, don’t rush me.” The crowd erupted in laughter, as did I.

Watch the official music video for “Alone Together” by Daley featuring Marsha Ambrosius on YouTube:

Daley shared a mix of classics and covers. His rendition of Brandy’s “When You Touch Me” was smooth and savory. He took it a step further with a cover of Usher’s “Superstar.” This track made the audience throw their hands up and sing along. He turned the mic to the crowd and the room was transformed into a family choir.

As the night went on Daley shared two brand new songs: a ballad titled “Falling Deep” and an up-tempo track titled “Zone.” Both songs fared well with the room as the crowd picked up on the choruses to both and sang along. Daley added, “I’m 95% finished with my new album. I know it’s been a minute but I’m desperate to share.”

Daley’s tone was so pure and angelic. The way he transitioned from highs and lows left the audience in awe. As he said goodnight and exited the stage the chants of his name rang through the building. The anticipation came to an end as “Alone Together” began to play while Daley reentered the stage. The crowd stood on their feet, and everyone began to sing the smash hit. His performance satisfied and rejuvenated all hope and laid to rest the theory that R&B is dead.

After the show I reached out to Daley to ask the million-dollar question burning a hole in my brain, “What flavor tea was in your cup?” to which he replied, “Trusty Ginger.”

Setlist:

1.Temple (Intro)
2. Selfish
3. Blame The World
4. Darkest Hour
5. Those Who Wait
6. Time Travel
7. Be
8. Falling Deep
9. Zone
10. Second to None/R&B Medley
11. Look Up
12. Alone Together
13. Until The Pain is Gone

Here are some photos of Daley performing at the Howard Theatre on Feb. 25, 2024. All pictures copyright and courtesy of Tonya Caver.