Tribute to Love

That’s what it was called. He seduced the crowd using only the microphone, his eyes animated, voice sultry and brown skin was illuminated by the stage lighting. He was singing right to her, and no one knew it but us. We had ended up making it to Black Notes’ performance. Black hair sculpted into a short mohawk and tattoos resting naturally all over his arms, this man was captivating on and off the stage. 

tribute to love

you have my heart

girl, that body is a work of art

Ha, I thought. That’s clever, mentioning art. You could see it in his face, he was in both bliss and agony, a cocktail of tragedy. I looked over at Jaylynn, taking my eyes off of him for the first time. She was totally caught up, eyes closed, just savoring the moment and swaying to the rhythm of the music he was making. 

Later the band took a break and we were at the bar, drinking vodka and lemonade. He was working the room, giving dap and greeting his fans. Eventually he sauntered over to the bar and casually sidled up to us. “Hey.” Jaylynn said. “What’s good with you girls?” He wasn’t looking at her, he said it while motioning to the bartender.

Enthusiastically, I told him, “I loved your song! I wish I could write like that.” He nodded, “thanks.” 

“Aww it was a’ight,” Jaylynn teased. We all laughed; everyone had seen Jaylynn’s physical response to the song. He kissed her hand and mocked a ballroom bow. “My time is up ladies.” Their next set was about to begin and his fellow band members were already reorganizing equipment onstage. Reaching for his drink, he allowed me a panoramic view of these tattoos on his arm. Many were music-related, like notes and keys on a piano. Black notes. Fitting.