📍3TEN at ACL Live — Sept. 12
Written by Perrin Boyd
Aloe Blacc kicked off his 2025 tour on Friday night at 3Ten Austin City Limits, setting the tone for the road ahead with a show in one of Austin’s most intimate venues. Known for his soulful voice and uplifting lyrics, Blacc gave the small crowd a performance that felt personal, direct, and engaging. Every seat in the house felt as though you could talk to him and engage with him personally.
The Grammy-nominated singer wasted little time delivering the hits that made him a household name. Songs like “I Need a Dollar,” “The Man,” and the Avicii collaboration “Wake Me Up” drew loud singalongs from the audience, with many fans joining in word for word. The close setting of 3Ten amplified the energy, turning the show into more of a shared celebration than a standard tour opener.
Blacc also took time to spotlight the artists who influenced him. He paid tribute to Bill Withers with a heartfelt version of “Lean on Me,” which stood out as one of the night’s most memorable moments. He later covered Marvin Gaye’s “What’s Going On,” giving the classic a respectful yet flawless delivery, and surprised the crowd with his own soulful take on The Mamas & the Papas’ “California Dreamin’.”
Throughout the night, Blacc made the audience feel less like spectators and more like collaborators. He encouraged clapping, singing, and even call-and-response moments that turned the room into a choir. Between songs, he spoke with warmth and humor, sharing stories about his journey, his influences, and the power of music to bring people together. In a venue as intimate as 3Ten, those conversations felt personal, as though he were speaking directly to each person in the crowd.
As the night went on, the show highlighted both his versatility and his consistency. Whether delivering his own chart-topping hits or interpreting classics, Blacc’s vocals remained smooth and flawless.
For fans, this was a rare opportunity to see an international artist in a small venue where every detail was up close. If the Austin performance is any indication, Blacc’s 2025 tour will be defined by connection, authenticity, and a reminder of why his music continues to resonate with audiences around the world.