Sasha Keable is one of the UK’s strongest vocalists and her intimate gig at the Omeara in London on 23 September proved exactly why. She walks out red wine in hand bringing a friendly aura that you’d typically find over drinks at the pub. Except Keable is headlining a show that sold out in just four minutes. It’s a testament to her star power. Her rich and powerful R&B vocals are just as earthshaking IRL as they are in the studio. She hardly even needs the mic as her projection fills the room. Keable’s ability to tap into her lower range and smoothly riff into a hearty belt is incredible to see live. She encapsulates the beauty and power of music, managing to showcase visceral emotion and attitude in her every syllable.
Keable is a self-admitted chatty performer, taking breaks between her songs to banter with her audience about her knack for “oversharing”. The artist not only interacts with her crowd but looks out for their safety, checking on them if it gets too hot and encouraging them to showcase their talent during her rendition of Musiq Soulchild’s Just Friends. Keable asks the crowd who can sing and then proceeds to hand the mic over to eager volunteers. Keable’s artistry and command of her vocals were awe-inspiring and her delivery left every member of the audience roaring in support.
Keable played all her hits, calling her old music her “heart break girlie era.” She also teased the crowd with her newest song featuring 6lack. She is vulnerable on stage addressing how her ADHD affects her performance — which you’d never notice until she mentions as she is a natural performer. Keable is funny and likeable with the talent to match. The star has always been a powerhouse in the UK R&B scene but seeing her live is a reminder of how much she has to offer. From writing to performance, Keable truly has it all. She is a national treasure that the charts just need to catch up to.
photography. Becca Scarlet Wheeler
words. Shama Nasinde
