Jon Batiste Transforms Fort Lauderdale Into a Sacred Space

All images by Larry Marano

Jon Batiste delivered a transcendent performance at the Au-Rene Theater on October 9th, proving why he remains one of music's most electrifying live performers. From the opening notes of "Let God Lead," the Grammy winner commanded the stage with an intoxicating blend of virtuosity and spiritual fervor that held the sold-out crowd spellbound.

The setlist showcased Batiste's remarkable range, seamlessly weaving between his own material and inspired reinterpretations. His rendition of "FREEDOM" opened with a stunning AMERIICAN REQIEUM intro, while traditional numbers like "When the Saints Go Marching In" felt freshly reimagined. The transition from Blind Willie Johnson's "Nobody's Fault but Mine" into "PINNACLE" was particularly masterful, highlighting Batiste's deep musical literacy.