In a black glitter suit that was shimmering under the spotlight, the British-born rock n’ roller Howard Jones took the stage at Ryman Auditorium, on Nov. 19, opening for the Daryl’s House tour. Having a strong presence in the music industry for the past forty years, Jones’ uplifting music and introspective lyrics set the bar for the rest of the night. His flamboyant personality elevated the audience’s mood as seen through the applause and the cheers.
Jones’ delivery has a sincerity, which matches the hopeful and positive themes of many of his songs. “No One Is to Blame,” is my favorite ballad Jones has produced as it is rich in metaphors that capture the bittersweet frustration of unfulfilled desires and the limitations we sometimes face in life, love, and relationships. Although the original version of the song touched the hearts of his fans, Jones wanted to continue experimenting, and he re-released the song with the help of Phil Collins. The re-recorded version paid off, becoming Jones’s biggest U.S. hit, peaking at No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1986.
“We have to believe in ourselves. We have to believe in our work,” Jones said.
The highlight of the night was when Howard Jones performed “Things Can Only Get Better” and invited the audience to join in by mimicking his iconic howls. Their enthusiastic voices echoed through the venue, creating an electric, communal energy that made the moment unforgettable.
After a short break, Daryl Hall took the stage to a thunderous applause of anticipation. He opened with “The Whole World’s Better,” a song co-produced with his close friend Dave Stewart. In a heartfelt moment, Hall explained that Stewart couldn’t join him due to commitments in Europe, his tone tinged with somber admiration. As the performance unfolded, Hall’s effortless charisma shone through as he played the keys, sang, and danced with ease, demonstrating that music is truly second nature to him.
Hall and Oates, the legendary musical duo that has left a significant mark on rock ‘n’ roll, have parted ways due to a breakdown in their partnership, primarily stemming from Hall’s dissatisfaction with Oates’ business decisions. A key point of contention was Oates’ move to sell their joint assets without Hall’s approval. With the former friends now “Out of Touch,” (pun intended) Hall took the stage solo, performing classic hits like “Rich Girl,” inviting the audience to sing along and reviving the connection that once defined their iconic performances. Despite their personal and professional split, Hall’s live shows continue to resonate with fans who cherish their music.
In my opinion, Charles DeChant, nearly 80 years old, absolutely stole the show. With his exceptional skill and charisma, DeChant made a stunning entrance, emerging from the back of the stage while blowing his saxophone. As he moved to the front, he delivered a powerful two-minute solo that captivated the audience. DeChant’s fluid saxophone phrasing and ability to command the stage demonstrated not only his decades of experience but also his enduring talent. The crowd was visibly moved, and his solo became one of the most memorable moments of the night.
The night at the Ryman Auditorium showcased the enduring talents of both Howard Jones and Daryl Hall, each bringing their own unique energy and style to the stage. Jones’ dynamic performance, full of emotional depth and audience interaction, set the tone for an unforgettable evening, while Hall’s heartfelt set reminded us of the lasting power of his music. Together, these artists created a night filled with nostalgia, heart, and unforgettable moments for their devoted fans.