Stepping onto the stage at the Music Hall of Williamsburg, Abner Ramirez and Amanda Sudano-Ramirez, better known as Johnnyswim, they greeted their adoring fans with handshakes, hugs and waves, with smiles spread wide across their faces. Having recently played NY for the recording of their DVD, “Live at Rockwood Music Hall,” they decided to treat the sold-out crowd to one more round of heartfelt tunes before heading back to record their next full-length release.
Johnnyswim
Johnnyswim
Johnnyswim
Johnnyswim
Their entrance onstage was just one of many crowd interaction moments during the night. Taking numerous song requests, and telling stories of how a few audience members, that Amanda actually remembered by name, got engaged at past performances, I was stunned at how well they were able to relate to everyone standing at rapt attention. The folk-pop duo’s set was a well-oiled machine, with their four-piece band filling out the sound of their songs with precision. From tender covers of Sam Cooke’s “You Send Me,” Elvis Presley’s “Can’t Help Falling in Love,” and everyone’s favorite, Drake’s “Hotline Bling,” to their own tunes “Heart Bearts,” “Live While We’re Young,” Take The World,” and “Diamonds,” there wasn’t one moment where the crowd didn’t know the lyrics to eagerly sing along.
Johnnyswim
Johnnyswim
Johnnyswim
Johnnyswim
Johnnyswim isn’t afraid to put their love on full display either, and for them, it works beautifully. At point during the night, Abner snuck kisses and Amanda’s jokes about how she “hooked up with that, married that, and had a baby with that did not go unnoticed. Their love and clear adoration of one another is just another reason why their show is so intriguing. I know personally every time I step foot outside of a Johnnyswim show, I leave believing in the power of love. I have no doubt that the love they share will continue to fuel their beautiful music for years and years to come.
Johnnyswim
Johnnyswim
Johnnyswim
Setlist
Trouble
Hotline Bling
Don’t Let It Get You Down
You and I
Adelina
If It Matters
Take The World
You Send Me
Can’t Help Falling In Love
Pay Dearly
Live While We’re Young
Heart Beats
Paris in June
Diamonds
Home/Jackson
Article: Lesley Keller
