There are artists we know by name and others whose songs we recognize, even if their names aren’t as familiar. Jess Glynne often falls into the latter category. Although her name might not come to mind immediately, her hits like “Rather Be,” “I’ll Be There” and “Hold My Hand” are loved by many.

I was fortunate enough to attend Glynne’s concert at the Brooklyn Bowl on Oct. 16, where up-and-coming pop artist Leah Kate opened the show. The venue, with its dim, shadowy lighting and industrial aesthetic, set the perfect mood for the evening. From the ground floor to the intimate balcony, fans packed in to experience the night.

Leah Kate, whose high-energy stage presence commanded attention, shared a fun fact: she had direct-messaged Glynne 10 years ago about a possible collaboration, though it didn’t happen until now. Kate’s performance was full of bold energy, mixing themes of heartbreak and girl power. She embodied an unapologetic spirit.

“I do questionable s***. I say questionable s***. But I’m just a girl. And that’s what girls do,” Kate said. 

Her raw confidence and emotional delivery set the stage for what would be an unforgettable night. 

After a brief intermission between acts, the crowd buzzed with anticipation for the main event. Known for her soulful voice reminiscent of Adele and Alessia Cara, Glynne first gained recognition in 2014 and quickly became a standout in the UK pop scene. 

In a personal touch that truly connected her with the crowd, Glynne passed around a disposable camera, encouraging fans to take selfies so she could keep them. She also made sure her backup singers got their moment in the spotlight, stepping back to let them shine during key moments. The camaraderie on stage was palpable, a reflection of Glynne’s appreciation for the collaborative spirit of live music.

What truly made the performance a night to remember was Glynne’s appreciation not just for her audience but for where she was performing: in the heart of Music City. 

“One of my favorite things is how my fans connect with the sentiments of my songs,” Glynne said. “It’s really special being in the city where you get that everywhere, every day. It’s so beautiful.”

Fully embracing Nashville’s rich musical culture, she swapped her usual pop sound for a country-infused rendition of “I’ll Be There,” giving it a special Tennessee twist. Glynne admitted that she had to convince her band and backup singers to step out of their comfort zone for the country versions, but in the end, the experiment was a hit. Although Glynne rarely sings covers, she made an exception for the Nashville crowd, pouring her heart into a soulful rendition of Chris Stapleton’s “Tennessee Whiskey.” Her passion for the song was evident, as she fully embraced the country classic, making it a standout moment of the night. 

As students at Vanderbilt, right in the heart of Music City, we often take for granted the constant hum of creativity and performance that surrounds us. Glynne’s concert was a poignant reminder of just how special Nashville is — not only for those of us lucky enough to live and study here but also for artists who come from around the world and are inspired by its energy. Glynne’s willingness to adapt her performance to honor Nashville’s traditions speaks to the profound impact this city has, even on outsiders. 

So, next time you hear Jess Glynne’s name, you better remember it. If she can change her setlist to embrace Nashville’s musical roots and pour herself into every note, she’s not just an artist whose songs you know — she’s a performer who commands your attention. After a show like hers, there’s no way I’ll forget Glynne’s name.