Minions and Melancholy: Faye Webster Delights at the Rady Shell
Faye Webster’s performance at the Rady Shell in San Diego was a stunning blend of vulnerability, charm, and musicianship. Against the backdrop of the shimmering waterfront and city skyline, Webster’s understated yet captivating presence turned the open-air venue into an intimate space where every lyric and note resonated deeply.
A native of Atlanta, Georgia, Webster has carved out a unique niche in modern music with her genre-blurring sound that fuses indie-folk, soft rock, and R&B. Growing up in a musical household, she was drawn to bluegrass and country early on, influences that continue to echo in her work today. Her artistic sensibilities are also shaped by Atlanta’s vibrant hip-hop scene, creating a distinct blend of wistful melodies and soulful grooves. Webster’s breakout album, Atlanta Millionaires Club (2019), brought her national attention, with tracks like “Kingston” and “Room Temperature” showcasing her talent for turning introspection into universally relatable art. Her most recent album, Underdressed at the Symphony (2024), further solidified her reputation as a master of subtle, emotionally rich storytelling.
Opening the night was Laila!, an emerging young artist whose self-made beats and R&B style provided a lovely contrast to Faye’s set. Her blend of sharp lyrics and the presence of a DJ resonated with the crowd, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. building anticipation for the main act while leaving a strong impression on the audience.
Before Webster took the stage, the audience was treated to a charming animated sequence featuring Minions from Despicable Me. Known for her lighthearted obsession with the yellow characters, the inclusion of the clip added a personal and endearing touch to the show, immediately setting the tone for an evening of connection and sincerity.
Webster’s set began with “But Not Kiss,” immediately setting a wistful, reflective tone. From there, Webster moved through an expertly curated setlist, including “Wanna Quit All the Time” and “Thinking About You.” Her signature blend of heartfelt lyricism and lush instrumentation was on full display, delivered with a vocal warmth that felt both delicate and confident.
Highlights included crowd favorites “Right Side of My Neck” and “Better Distractions,” with the steel guitar adding a nostalgic depth to her sound. Webster’s dry humor and casual banter between songs enhanced the performance, as she reflected on the grandeur of the Rady Shell with a mix of awe and amusement.
“A Dream With a Baseball Player” stood out as a particularly poignant moment, showcasing her ability to weave deeply personal narratives into her music. The performance of “Jonny” and its reprise was another highlight, demonstrating her knack for crafting a setlist that feels cohesive yet dynamic. Tracks like “Cheers” and “Tttttime” brought an understated groove, offering a subtle contrast to the quieter, more introspective moments of the evening.
A new twist was introduced via Webster’s song “He Loves Me Yeah!” — where the “he” pronouns were replaced with “she”. The rendition felt fresh and heartfelt, further emphasizing Webster’s talent for infusing her performances with sincerity and emotional nuance. The encore provided a perfect conclusion to the evening. With “Feeling Good” and the beloved “Kingston,” Webster left the audience with a mix of uplift and bittersweet emotion.
Webster’s ability to create such an intimate atmosphere within a large, open venue speaks to her unique talent and deep connection to her craft. Her performance at the Rady Shell was not just a showcase of her musical abilities but also a testament to her growth as an artist. By blending her Southern roots with a modern indie sensibility, Webster has become a singular voice in contemporary music, capable of turning quiet vulnerability into something profoundly impactful. The evening was a moving journey through her discography, leaving a lasting impression on all in attendance.
Setlist: But Not Kiss, Wanna Quit All the Time, Thinking About You, Right Side of My Neck, Better Distractions, Cheers, A Dream With a Baseball Player, Lego Ring, Jonny, Jonny (Reprise), Lifetime, Tttttime, After The First Kiss, In a Good Way, He Loves Me Yeah!, Feeling Good Today, Kingston
