Everybody Loves You, Betty Who

Seattle – Since the release of her debut single “Somebody Loves You” (and its inclusion in that one minor marriage proposal viral video), Australian artist Betty Who has been poised to become the next big pop star. And since she’s kicked off her first US tour, audiences across the country have fallen in love with the singer’s infectious energy and bubbly songs, as seen Saturday night at Seattle’s Barboza.

The 22-year-old Betty Who (real name Jessica Newham) has been touring since March to promote her new EP, Slow Dancing, out April 8. Performing songs from her 2013 EP The Movement, as well as some new ones that will appear on the upcoming record, the pop singer-songwriter showcased her stunning vocals, Beyonce-inspired moves, and charming persona in Barboza’s intimate setting.

Taking the stage in a personalized letterman jacket, the statuesque platinum-blonde Betty launched into pure pop bliss with “You’re in Love,” an 80’s-influenced track filled with bright piano and synth, lovely “Ooo’s,” and a catchy, shout-y chorus, and the new hit single “Heartbreak Dream,” an “Is summer here yet so I can blast this in my car with the windows down?” anthem.

Following with a new song “Lovin’ You,” which she introduced as “a mix between Ashanti and Ja Rule,” the 80’s sound evolved into a more modern melody with atmospheric vocals and a groovin’ bass.

In between songs, Betty playfully bantered with the audience, admitting to her undying love for Beyonce (she even called for a request to start a Beyonce cover band), and providing humorous anecdotes. “This is my second time performing in Seattle,” she said, recalling her February performance for the Red Dress Party, an annual AIDS awareness event. “I felt like I was in fucking Grey’s Anatomy!” she said as the audience laughed and applauded.

“I’m having too much fun with you, you guys are amazing!” Betty exclaimed, high-kicking on stage as she begins “Alone Again,” another new tune. Throughout the song, she started a sway with keyboardist Lauren Fuller, and as it progressed, Lauren came out from behind the piano to join Betty in choreographed dancing reminiscent of a 50’s pop group. The two played off of bassist Jemila Dunham, showing great energy and chemistry between the band.

Slowing things down, Betty introduced the next song: “I’m gonna play a song from the first EP, it started off as a sad song for me, now it’s a happy song for me, and tonight it’s whatever you need it to be – this song is yours.” It’s “Right Here,” a simple, beautiful, heartfelt tune. Standing center stage, Betty lifted her head to the ceiling and the spotlight revealed a powerful emotion in her eyes.

Transitioning into another new track “Giving Me Away,” with yearning vocals, synth, and harder drums, the show gained momentum for its final leg. Betty then sang “All of You,” which she wrote with producer and friend Peter Thomas, before jumping into “Somebody Loves You,” at which point the crowd couldn’t help but dance wildly with her. “Thanks Seattle!” she yelled – but Seattle wasn’t done with her yet.

Betty Who came back out to euphoric applause by an audience who’d fallen in love with pop all over again. The avid Beyonce lover began a sexy cover of Destiny’s Child “Say My Name,” and the crowd screamed along with the bouncy “Yea yea yea yea’s.” To end the night, Betty closed by singing about drinking “chardonnay through the day, ‘cause we say so,” in the young-and-carefree “High Society” – a perfect end to the party.

Betty Who continues her Slow Dancing tour through April, and will play several UK shows in May. Her new EP Slow Dancing comes out April 8, with a major label debut to follow later this year on RCA.

For more information on Betty Who, visit her website or Facebook page.

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Caitlin Peterkin

Caitlin Peterkin is a Seattle transplant fresh from the Midwest. She owes her passion for music to her parents, who filled the house with artists from The Beatles to The Beach Boys, Simon & Garfunkel to Carly Simon, and Jackson Browne to Michael Jackson. One of her favorite memories includes being presented with her mom’s original vinyl copy of Sgt. Pepper when she got her first record player.

With degrees in journalism and music, Caitlin’s written for Paste Magazine, The Chronicle of Higher Education, and MajoringinMusic.com. She loves cheese, laughing at GIFs of corgis, road trip sing-alongs, and connecting with people over good beer and good music.