New York, NY — The glow of the Hudson River and the warm lights of City Winery created the perfect backdrop Saturday night for an artist who has mastered the marriage of elegance and soul. Since opening in 2020, the Hudson Riverfront venue has become a destination for live music, wine, and an upscale-but-relaxed atmosphere — and Eric Benét fit the room like it was designed for him.
The four-time Grammy nominee and NAACP Image Award winner walked onto the main stage poised and stylish, backed by a tight, masterful band. The crowd responded instantly, rising to greet a performer who has been a fixture of R&B romance for more than 25 years.
Benét set the tone with “Love Don’t Love Me,” the fan favorite from the soundtrack of the hit film The Brothers. His voice — clear, rich, and impossibly smooth — filled the room as he moved through an opening run that reminded everyone why his songs remain timeless.
He followed with a gorgeous blend of “You’re the Only One” and James Mtume’s classic groove “You, Me and He,” a mix that wrapped the room in silky nostalgia. A wave of cheers met the first notes of “Chocolate Legs,” and from there the night built into a soulful, seductive celebration. Benét was at ease, playful and charismatic, effortlessly holding the room in the palm of his hand.
The setlist read like a love letter to his catalog:
“Sometimes I Cry,” “When You Think of Me,” “Spend My Life With You,” and “Georgy Porgy” closed the main show, each drawing voices from the crowd and swaying bodies from table to table. Fans sang along, shouted lyrics, and clapped through the final notes.
But they weren’t ready to let him go.
Benét returned for an encore that brought the house down, stitching together two legendary covers — Prince’s “Gigolos Get Lonely Too” and Rick James’ “Mary Jane.” Smooth, joyful, and note-perfect, the performance was a reminder of his rare ability to honor the past while remaining completely himself.
The night continued with more velvet-lined favorites, including the tender “Femininity,” the soulful “Love of My Own,” and the sweet charm of “Pretty Baby.” Between songs, Benét introduced his powerhouse band: keyboardist Jon Rych, bassist Afton Johnson (a.k.a. Willie Banks Jr.), and drummer PJ Hill. Together, they were a rhythmic engine — versatile, stylish, and as captivating as the man they supported.
The evening wound down with warm, jazzy holiday ballads that only Benét could make sound both festive and seductive, leaving the audience smiling and satisfied.
More than two decades into his career, Eric Benét is still magnetic — a voice built for romance, a performer who understands connection, and an artist who remains every bit the definition of smooth. Fans left City Winery glowing, already hoping for the next show.
For upcoming tour dates, visit ticket outlets and venue announcements.
