Alex Isley: Intimate Desk Performance

June 23, 2025 Luna Ray 192 Views

This Black Music Month, Tiny Desk gently reflects on the anniversaries of landmark albums that have beautifully shaped the course of music and culture. Five years ago, the enchanting Alex Isley graced us with a memorable Tiny Desk (home) concert. Since then, the desire to welcome her for a proper performance in the office has grown ever stronger.

Maintaining a serene silence until the right moment, the L.A. native approached the Desk with a thoughtful demeanor. Yet, her eyes sparkled with joy for this long-awaited moment shared with fans. DeShaun Allen, a dear friend, has lovingly crafted new arrangements for her performance, honoring the spirit of the original recordings while infusing new life into cherished favorites like “About Him” and “Love Again.”

Supporting vocalists Nelson Beato, Muhsinah, and Astyn Terrentine create a harmonious blend, beautifully complementing Isley’s soft, airy tones. The experience evokes a sense of nostalgia reminiscent of witnessing the serene beauty of Daniel Caesar’s performance back in 2018. One of our cherished Tiny Desk alums, Masego, graces us for a heartfelt verse on “Good & Plenty,” delighting the audience.

She begins with the uplifting “Mic On,” a delightful nod to her father, Ernie Isley of The Isley Brothers, and concludes with the moving “Thank You for a Lovely Time” from her latest EP, WHEN.