Live Review: John Mayer Solo with Joy Oladokun at State Farm Arena in Atlanta, March 27, 2023

It’s been nearly a quarter-century since 22-year-old John Mayer released his debut EP Inside Wants Out and if it didn’t make a noticeable splash, Room For Squares did. The album included the terrific “No Such Thing” along with a few other reworked numbers from the debut. Squares was an instant hit and Mayer has continued to rise to the occasion with each album.

Mayer’s solo tour is a stripped-down, acoustic marvel. He mentioned during the performance how appreciative he was that, “All of you showed up for just me and my guitar.” With all the singalongs and recognizable hits, it hits different to hear an artist in the purest form. Mayer’s guitar (and piano) playing was sharp, his voice crisp and wonderful. While the huge State Farm Arena is far from an intimate coffee shop, that seemed to be the collective vibe.

After a few opening tunes, a taped interview was played which showed Mayer discussing Room for Squares from back in 2002. Then followed a few songs from that breakout album. Later in the show, a Continuum interview was played from that release in 2006. Mayer is also known to play a handful of cover tunes live. Tonight, he covered Beyonce’s “XO” and later Tom Petty’s “Free Fallin’” for the closer. Check out Mayer’s tour dates HERE.

The captivating Joy Oladokun opened the show with a much too brief acoustic set. She is a rising star so take her seriously and buy some music. Visit her website HERE.