As a fan of Ryan Leslie I was a bit reluctant to catch his MySpace sponsored concert. Typically, I create a fantasy of an artist when I first listen to their music. I expect to hear at the very least the same music I hear when I listen to the album.

Now here lies the hesitation, because of this fantasy, I have suffered a few heartbreaks in the past. Names of whom I will not mention, but I’m sure you can relate. However, this was not the case last night. My heart was not broken; it pumped happily to Leslie’s live music.

Getting into Hollywood’s Level 3 nightspot wasn’t easy because of the huge crowd excited to see him. He’s one of the hottest producers in the game, a singer/songwriter, and lecturer. Oh yes, he tours colleges giving lectures on breaking into the ever evolving music industry. In other words… he’s a renaissance man.

The venue was packed with dancers, fashionistas, and Leslie Die Hards. Once the dj had the crowd dancing, Leslie jumped on stage raising the energy through the roof. Personally, I wouldn’t label him a crooner, but his stage presence was masterful and in perfect sync with his band.

There wasn’t a dull moment as he went through his songs and the crowd effortlessly sang along. Leslie’s set covered tracks off his self-titled debut album Ryan Leslie, but gave a taste of his new album Transition, which was just released on November 3rd as well.

Leslie’s performance was captivating; I couldn’t take my eyes off the stage. Dressed in his signature black leather jacket and shades; he had a smooth ebb and flow gauging and interacting with the audience.

My heart grew fonder for Leslie after I left the event. He didn’t sound like I was listening to his album through headphones or driving my car in sunny L.A, he sounded better, like a true musician. This is a very good thing!

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