When Shankar Mahadevan steps onto the stage with his partners Ehsaan Noorani and Loy Mendonsa, the trio doesn’t just perform—they ignite an electrifying musical journey that sweeps the audience into a whirlwind of rhythm and melody. From the very first note at Meridian Hall, Toronto, last night, the crowd was on fire, and the energy only soared higher as the night went on.

Shankar’s incredible vocal prowess was perfectly complemented by the sheer power of Ehsaan’s guitar and the mesmerizing jazz notes from Loy’s keyboard, creating a musical experience that was nothing short of magical. Together, they form one of the finest musical acts in India, seamlessly blending their talents to deliver a show that is both thrilling and deeply moving.

The atmosphere was electric as the trio began their performance, instantly engaging the audience with their infectious energy. Every member of the audience was on their feet, dancing and singing along to every song. Shankar’s interaction with the crowd was genuine and warm, making everyone feel like a part of the performance.

The band performed all their legendary hits. The opening songs dedicated to Lord Ganesha and Lord Shiva were very powerful and set the stage for high energy, which lasted all evening. Classics like “Pretty Woman,” “Maa,” “Kal Ho Na Ho,” and “Rock On” were all there, each sung flawlessly by Shankar. Watching him perform is an amazing experience;; he’s a genius, delivering every note with precision and passion. Shankar even sang a few Tamil songs and interacted with the audience in different languages, like sprinkling flavours of ‘tadka’ .

The entire band came together beautifully. The lineup featured multiple drummers, a dhol player, a congo player, a bassist, a keyboardist, and very talented young singers like Karthik Raman and Shivam Mahadevan, all of whom contributed to the rich, layered sound that filled the venue. Shankar’s introduction of his team was a spectacle in itself, showcasing the camaraderie and mutual respect among the musicians. The singers delivered standout performances, adding their unique voices to the mix.

Overall, the concert was a testament to the enduring appeal and talent of Shankar Ehsaan Loy. Their ability to connect with the audience, deliver flawless performances, and create an atmosphere of joy and celebration is unparalleled. If you ever have the chance to see them live, don’t miss it – it’s an experience you’ll never forget. (I never miss any of their visits to Toronto!)

The last leg of the #KalHoNaHo North America Tour concluded on a high note, leaving the audiences with mixed emotions of nostalgia, love and happiness as they took back memories from one of the most awaited performances of the summer of 2024!