Sweet Soul
The NPR Tiny Desk Concert series has become a sanctuary for music lovers, offering an intimate stage where artists strip down their sound to its core. Whether it’s through raw vocals, acoustic arrangements, or unexpected collaborations, these performances transcend the ordinary. Here are ten Tiny Desk concerts you simply must experience:
**Joined by Tank, Chanté Moore, and Avery Wilson, Babyface delivered a masterclass in R&B storytelling. His set was a nostalgic journey through the hits he’s performed and written for others, showcasing his legendary songwriting skills.
Highlights:
Whip Appeal – Smooth and sultry.
Can We Talk – A crowd favorite, originally performed by Tevin Campbell.
End of the Road – A Boyz II Men classic brought to life.
**Timberlake’s set was a testament to his showmanship, blending energy and intimacy seamlessly. Backed by The Tennessee Kids, his band brought new life to his chart-topping hits.
Highlights:
Señorita – Fun and interactive.
What Goes Around – Stripped back to its emotional core.
SexyBack – A playful duktry6dance
As '90s R&B enjoys a resurgence, SWV’s timeless hits remind us why they remain icons. Their harmonies filled the room with love and nostalgia, proving their sound is as fresh as ever.
Highlights:
Weak – A vocal masterclass.
Rain – Smooth and emotional.
I'm So Into You – An infectious groove.
Watch SWV’s Tiny Desk Concert
Alicia Keys brought her signature introspection and mindfulness to the Tiny Desk stage, radiating compassion and authenticity. Her performance felt like a warm hug.
Highlights:
Show Me Love – Intimate and moving.
Underdog – A message of hope.
Fallin’ – A stripped-down version of her breakout hit.
Watch Alicia Keys’ Tiny Desk Concert
With a full band and creative direction from her daughter, Furtado reimagined her greatest hits in a vibrant, glitchy pop celebration. The energy was contagious.
Highlights:
Say It Right – Ethereal and haunting.
Promiscuous – A playful duet.
Maneater – A fiery rendition.
Watch Nelly Furtado’s Tiny Desk Concert
Eilish’s Tiny Desk performance encapsulated saudade—a yearning melancholy that resonated deeply. Her stripped-down set was hauntingly beautiful and intimate.
Highlights:
The Greatest – A poignant ballad.
i love you – Heart-wrenching and raw.
Birds of a Feather – A delicate acoustic moment.
Watch Billie Eilish’s Tiny Desk Concert
Styles brought his unpretentious creativity to the Tiny Desk, proving why he’s a pop star who subverts expectations. His charisma and voice shone through.
Highlights:
Cherry – Intimate and emotional.
Watermelon Sugar – A joyful singalong.
Adore You – A heartfelt favorite.
Watch Harry Styles’ Tiny Desk Concert
Celebrating the contributions of Black women in music, Chaka Khan’s powerhouse performance was unforgettable. Her voice continues to unite generations with its strength and soul.
Highlights:
Sweet Thing – A heartfelt classic.
Through the Fire – Pure vocal perfection.
I’m Every Woman – A timeless anthem of empowerment.
Watch Chaka Khan’s Tiny Desk Concert
Maxwell’s soulful charm was on full display as he confessed, “This is where real music can’t lie. You cannot lie here.” The stripped-down arrangements of his classics brought out the vulnerability and power in his voice. The audience, fully immersed, added a party vibe to his heartfelt set.
Highlights:
Sumthin' Sumthin' – A groove that gets everyone moving.
Pretty Wings – Emotional and heartfelt.
Ascension (Don't Ever Wonder) – A timeless anthem.
Watch Maxwell’s Tiny Desk Concert
During quarantine, Legend turned his management office into a Tiny Desk stage, delivering joy and warmth through his piano and vocals. His charisma and optimism were contagious.
Highlights:
Ooh Laa – A sultry opener.
Conversations in the Dark – Romantic and tender.
Bigger Love – A celebration of life and love.
Watch John Legend’s Tiny Desk Concert
