Daniel Nunnelee’s June, Baby fall tour made its way to Charlotte, NC on September 5th. The tour started in August and continues all the way through November, with plenty of chances to catch a show, I highly suggest doing so.
Daniel’s latest album June, Baby is a 10 track album perfectly encapsulating who he is as an artist. If you are a fan of his songs “Oak Trees”, “Pick and Choose”, or “Put Me in the Ground” but haven’t streamed this album yet, you definitely should give it a listen.
I had the chance to hang with Daniel and his band, Luke Saison and Ian Shaw, before the show, as well as opening act Izzy Heltai. To say these guys are the best is an understatement. Their joyful energy filled the air as we talked and took portraits. They made me feel welcome and appreciated the whole night, and it was a pleasure to watch them have fun and enjoy playing on stage together.
Izzy Heltai’s set can only be described as refreshing. His indie-folk sound, mixed with real and raw feelings detailing his journey of being a queer trans man, was truly powerful. His songs “My Best Friend Sam” and “25” especially stuck out to me. His songs make you feel comforted and not alone, and also like a big hug to your younger self. His charming personality and infectious smile paired with these important lyrics were enough to make you wish the set was never-ending.
Up next, Daniel took the stage. June, Baby’s songs are all perfect to experience at a live show. With the mix of upbeat music and folky storytelling, you are brought along through a journey from start to finish. During the set, Daniel made sure to interact with the fans that were eagerly watching. He took song requests, received bracelets, and shouted out fans for their support. The small but mighty crowd came together to sing every word back to Daniel and his band. The joy between the band and audience was reciprocated and shared. It almost felt as if we were in a living room all hanging out together. The hour quickly flew by and the show was almost over. But not without hearing “Oak Trees” as part of the encore. With friends and strangers coming together to dance and singalong and “spin around in circles”, it was one of my favorite moments of the show. He sure knows how to make every show feel special and better than the last. It is always a treat to see Daniel perform, be sure to catch a show while you can!
Izzy Heltai
Daniel Nunnelee
