Ne-Yo & LL Cool J Headline Hennessy Artistry Concert Series
Hennessy Artistry and Ne-Yo collaborated to put on an intimate, invitation-only concert, which kicked off its third series on Wednesday night at The Kress, Hollywood’s newest hot spot. The five-level restaurant, club, and lounge served only Hennessy’s signature complimentary cocktails: Hennessy Mojitos, Sidecars, and Gingers, along with various hors d’oeuvres.
DJ Berrie kept the crowd moving in between performances with the latest hip-hop, rock, pop, funk, and reggae hits. Fresh off opening for Janet Jackson at the Staples Center, LL Cool J hit the stage and treated the crowd to multiple songs and got the Los Angeles crowd hype with his smash hit “Going Back to Cali.” Of course he performed the classics from the past, but he also did a couple tracks from his new album Exit 13, nearly 25 years since his debut.
Ne-Yo hit the stage just after LL Cool J. The Grammy-winner took us through his career with his biggest hits, including his most recent, “Miss Independent,” which already has a remix featuring Jamie Foxx and Fabolous. The smooth and classy crooner ended the show by informing the audience that the Year of the Gentleman has officially begun.
Words and photos by Jessica Washington.