Tinashe is a musical world-builder for every angle of romance — from telling stories for hopeless romantics, to those in situationships and the heartbroken. Tinashe swiftly rose to fame in 2007 as a member of the girl group The Stunners alongside Hayley Kiyoko. After the group parted ways, Tinashe set off on a solo musical journey, ultimately leading to the release of her 2014 debut album Aquarius, which made it on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Now, after marking multiple milestones along the way, Tinashe celebrates her fifth studio album, BB/ANG3L, with a highly anticipated 2024 North American East Coast tour. On Valentine’s Day, Tinashe sold out her Toronto tour stop at The Danforth Music Hall.

UNIIQU3, a producer and DJ known for her Jersey Club sounds, opened the night. Coined as the “Jersey Club Queen,” her energizing set consisted of live mixing and performances of “Price Going Up,” “Microdosing,” and more. UNIIQU3 was the perfect addition to the night as the venue was quick to cheer and dance along with her.

A 15 minute countdown was displayed at the back of the stage to build fans' anticipation for Tinashe’s stage entrance. Atop a cubic platform, Tinashe emerged, only her silhouette visible from below, as she began her performance with “Treason.” The crowd erupted into cheers and joined in singing along fervently as she descended and was soon joined by male dancers, seamlessly transitioning into a choreographed routine for “X,” and other tracks from her latest album, BB/ANG3L.

Tinashe curated a diverse setlist, making sure to include songs from across her lengthy discography. She transitioned between slower, soulful melodies to bass-heavy, upbeat tracks, showcasing her dynamic range. With her dancing crew, the crowd was ignited with infectious energy from “Bouncin,” prompting everyone to raise their arms in sync with the beat. Maintaining the energy, Tinashe reached out to a fan in the audience for a sign that read, “Women rule the world.”

Throughout the night, Tinashe remained unwavering in her energy, matched only by the same unyielding liveliness of her fans. Whether commanding center stage or atop lofty platforms, Tinashe sang flawlessly while effortlessly executing choreographed dances. Transitioning into a soft atmosphere for Valentine's Day, Tinashe delivered the tender and romantic “Story of Us” alone on stage, while mimicking typing the lyrics on a laptop. The words were simultaneously projected onto the screen behind her, adding a charm to the heartfelt performance.

Tinashe took a moment to interact with her fans, warmly wishing them a “Happy Valentine’s Day!” She playfully asked everyone’s relationship status, prompting cheers from both couples and singles. She further expressed her gratitude with “Good to see y'all, thanks for coming out and sharing your Valentine's Day with me.” Tinashe was met with tokens of affection from the crowd including a rose, stuffed animals, and heartfelt signs that read kind words for the artist. She concluded the intimate moment with “I don’t have a Valentine, but I have all of you!”

As the first beat of “2 On” echoed off the walls of the venue, a wave of screams and cheers erupted. Tinashe and the audience moved in sync, harmonizing as they sang along. The energy was carried into “Rascal (Superstar),” “Pasadena,” and her verse from the collaboration track “Gold Teeth” with Blood Orange. After a brief break, Tinashe returned adorned in a bubble jacket, delivering her melodic vocals in “Uh Huh” and “SHY GUY” once again alongside her charismatic dancers. 

Tinashe brought the night to a close with another one of her classics, “All Hands on Deck.” They finished strong, with her and the dance crew dancing on platforms again with more electrifying choreographed moves. Tinashe repeated thank you’s and waved to everyone in the venue as she walked off the stage in Toronto for the last time.

What is your favorite song from BB/ANG3L? Let us know by leaving a comment below or reaching out to us on Instagram or X (Twitter).

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Edited by Neyha Naveed