It’s not too often we get to write about a show that quite literally changed our lives, but with our jaw practically on the floor for the entirety of the 2 hour set that had us begging for more, we couldn’t wait to get to they keyboard and write about one of the most incredible displays of human talent we’ve ever seen. 

We arrived early to get a good spot at one of our favorite venues in Los Angeles. Now seeing a show at the Hollywood Forever cemetery is a must for any live music lover, but the intimacy and sound quality that the Masonic Lodge provides was such a treat for seeing Cory Henry live at the piano. 

Before the show began, a stage hand brought out a mug and placed it next to the grand piano in the middle of the stage. We weren’t exactly sure what was in the mug and were definitely questioning what type of vibe this night was going to be. 

Cory took the stage and the crowd immediately broke into cheers. Now, we’ve been fans of Cory Henry for close to a decade now…I’ve seen him perform at Crossroads high school, The Teragram Ballroom, and an unforgettable show at the Troubadour…all of them have been upbeat, funky, and unforgettable shows. So when Cory took the stage and explained how he missed playing the piano so decided to sit down one day and write an album, there wasn’t a question in our minds that this was about to be a life-changing show…but we really had no idea what we were in for. 

Now, being one of the greatest Organ players alive, it isn’t necessarily assumed that you’re also one of the greatest pianists alive…but Cory quickly put any skeptics to bed. 

Kicking off the show with his rendition of Amazing Grace, we were transported into services at a gospel church, complete with participation. It was a true warm up as the song started to get more complex and captivating. Every time you thought he was at the top and ready to bring it down, he just kept pulling the audience in and in while he (we we’re a bit worried) almost blew the roof off. 

Song after song got us stomping our feet, clapping along, and resisting the urge to get up and move around to the music. 

Cory sang about love and heartbreak, and reminded everyone to “never forget what you’re living for” and to “never forget what you’re fighting for”. A dose of inspiration and love with awe inspiring music (what Cory calls and we agree is the universal language)

As Cory finished up his final song, the entire crowd erupted in applause…which didn’t stop until he told everyone to sit down so he could start his encore. Now it’s no secret (or if it is, we’ll break it here first) that encores are planned regardless of how much the crowd does or doesn’t cheer after the main set, but the encore actually felt like we begged for it…because I, for one, wasn’t going to stop clapping until he left the building. 

If you’ve made it this far and I haven’t convinced you that seeing Cory Henry live whenever and wherever you can, then i’ve failed… but now at this point of the article, I’m speaking directly to you, Austin & Dallas, TX, and Atlanta, GA…Go get your tickets right now (yes you, and yes right now) to see Cory Henry live at the piano…you’ll thank us later after you’ve experience (i’ll say it again) one of the most incredible live displays of human talent that money can buy. 

Thank you Cory Henry for your music, inspiration, love, and message. We heard you tease another tour with the Funk Apostles and we’re gonna hold you to that and will absolutely see you there. 

Review & Photos by: Zak Sender

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