The Billie Holiday Theatre will kick off its Spring 2025 season with the return of Billie & Beyond, a music series celebrating the artistry and legacy of its iconic namesake.
The upcoming edition, set for Saturday, Feb. 15, will be hosted by Brooklyn-based poet and singer Shanelle Gabriel, featuring R&B singer-songwriter Lydia Caesar, according to a press release.
Gabriel, known for her dynamic performances blending poetry and music, will set the stage for the evening at the historic Bedford-Stuyvesant venue. The event, co-curated by journalist and producer Bonsu Thompson, will showcase a mix of contemporary jazz, R&B, hip-hop and other genres.
Brooklyn native Jourden, a singer-songwriter, rapper and producer, will open the show, with DJ Ty-Michelle providing a curated soundscape for the night.
Caesar, originally from Queens and now based in St. Louis, will return to her home city for the performance. Known for her soulful, uplifting R&B sound, she will perform a mix of her well-known hits, including St. Louis and Through It All, along with her latest single, The Greatest Love Story Ever Told.
With over a decade in the music industry and three albums to her name, Caesar has performed on some of the biggest stages, including the Essence Festival, and has shared bills with Brandy, Ashanti, Monica, Boyz II Men and Stevie Wonder.
An ASCAP award-winning songwriter, her work has appeared in commercials, TV shows and the Real Housewives franchise. In 2024, she gained viral fame for her comedic #MommyMixes, reimagining popular songs with parenting themes, which have racked up over 100 million views.
“We are so excited to start the spring season on a high note with this edition of Billie & Beyond,” said Shadawn Smith, executive director of The Billie Holiday Theatre. “The series has received a tremendous response and is fast becoming the place to see next-level talent and have a transformative musical experience. Lydia Caesar is a singular talent, and I know she will bring the house down with what will be an ‘Only at The Billie’ kind of performance.”
Billie & Beyond launched in fall 2024 as part of The Billie’s expanded programming and will conclude its inaugural season in April 2025, coinciding with Billie Holiday’s birthday month. The series is part of The Billie’s broader efforts to celebrate female vocalists, instrumentalists and DJs across multiple genres.
Doors open at 7:00pm and the show starts at 8:00pm. Early bird tickets are available for $25 through Feb. 10, with general admission priced at $35. Tickets can be purchased online or in person at The Billie, 1368 Fulton St.
