Boney James: The 2024 Slow Burn Tour

December 19, 2024 – Steelhouse – Omaha, NE

On a bitterly cold December night in Omaha, Nebraska, jazz sensation Boney James brought the heat to Steelhouse with his Slow Burn Tour and a performance that was worth every penny.

The date was Thursday, December 19, 2024, and the venue was buzzing with anticipation for an unforgettable evening of incredible jazz music.

In case you’re unfamiliar, Boney James, born James Oppenheim in New Rochelle, New York, moved to Los Angeles as a teenager, played in fusion bands, earned a history degree at UCLA, and hit the road as a musician. His early gigs included touring with Morris Day and working with artists like Randy Crawford and the Isley Brothers before going solo.

Since his debut album Trust in 1992, James has been a mainstay at the top of the Contemporary Jazz Charts, standing out with a grittier, more dynamic sound than the genre typically offers. With four Grammy nominations, gold-certified albums, and millions of records sold, his fusion of soul-jazz, R&B, funk, and pop has shaped modern contemporary jazz.

Albums like Body Language (1999), Pure (2004), and Futuresoul (2015) have inspired countless artists, and his 2020 album Solid, featuring the hit single “Be Here,” debuted at #10 on the Billboard Current Pop Albums Chart.

With over 595,000 monthly listeners on Spotify, Boney James continues to prove he’s a jazz powerhouse. His latest album, Slow Burn, is a must-add to any jazz playlist—my personal favorite track is “Slide.”

The night kicked off without an opening act, giving the crowd an immediate dose of Boney James magic. Dressed in a sharp black suit and hat, he and his band took the stage to a massive ovation, and from the first note, it was clear why he’s such a legend. Boney’s got this effortless swagger that makes him undeniably cool, and his saxophone skills are nothing short of mind-blowing. This guy knows how to own a stage and deliver an unforgettable show.

Boney James was incredibly personable with the crowd, radiating genuine joy every moment he was on stage.

The stage setup was minimal, but the vibrant colored lights and rich blue tones created an ambiance that perfectly complemented his music. He delivered an incredible 16-song set, blending classic favorites, newer hits, and a few surprises that even I hadn’t heard before. The crowd was completely hooked, soaking in every moment of the smooth, soulful vibes.

If you haven’t explored his music yet, you’re in for a treat—he’s an outstanding musician who knows how to connect with his audience.

A huge thank you to Steelhouse and his management for the chance to cover the show. It was the perfect way to cap off 2024!

Boney James Setlist: