About two-thirds through a subdued performance at Lollapalooza, Mariah the Scientist announced that she was about to play her “twerking song.”
The audience braced for the R&B singer to raise the energy level on the Lakeshore stage. While she did not do so by dancing, she did bring out her boyfriend — the rapper Young Thug, released from jail last year.
As the crowd erupted in screams and cheers, the couple performed their song, “Walked In,” from Mariah the Scientist’s 2021 album, “Ry Ryan World.”
“My man is free now!” the singer shouted.
It was a nice surge of excitement for Mariah the Scientist’s set, which was entertaining, but in need of a bit more pizzazz. Her vocals were loud and strong, and her band, especially the guitar player, was impressive. Her outfit — a military-style cap, boots and pink fur that she removed, given the heat— was cute. But she would have elevated the set by working the stage more.
Her fans certainly would have enjoyed seeing the choreography from the video for “Burning Blue,” her first top-40 hit currently causing a stir on the internet.
But they appreciated the banter that she did provide, introducing throwbacks from her catalog of three studio albums and two EPs, wishing all the Leos a happy birthday and commenting on the Chicago weather.
“I didn’t know it gets this hot,” said the singer, who is from Atlanta.
Standout songs included the ’80s-era-Prince-sounding “All For Me,” “Spread Thin” and, of course, the gold-certified “Burning Blue,” from her forthcoming album, “Hearts Sold Separately.” Fans are anticipating the project, which also features “Is it a Crime,” a duet with singer Kali Uchis released Thursday. Mariah the Scientist has been teasing visuals on social media from what may become another hit video.
The singer’s social media savvy is part of an effort to push her career forward. The Lollapalooza slot is proof it’s paying off. With some sharpening of her stage presence, she can surely deliver future shows that are compelling, with or without a superstar guest.
