Bonnevilles Flood the 9:30 Club: Josiah Sets the Bar with Unforgettable Performance

On March 30, 2024, Washington D.C. was alive with the anticipation of seeing Josiah and The Bonnevilles’ first headlining tour. Unlike most bands with similar titles alluding to a stage full of performers and theatrics, Josiah and The Bonnevilles refers to one incredibly talented solo artist, Josiah Leming. Like a secret password testing one’s loyalty, “The Bonnevilles” does not represent his backing musicians, but rather his large and wildly devoted fanbase.

The show began with Mon Rovîa, a Liberian born ukuleleist who charmed the audience with his mellow strums, silky notes, and a few banjolele plucks. Mon Rovîa trickled in and out of song as he told about escaping his life as a child soldier in the Second Liberian Civil War, which fuels his mission of spreading peace everywhere his music flows. Enamored with his message of hope, the crowd sang along with the clear fan favorite, “Big Love Ahead.”  After his set he was seen mingling with fans on the mezzanine, posing for photos, and engaging in heartfelt conversations with fans.

Despite his sincere disbelief, Leming's performance was anything but novice. His mastery over his craft was evident as he swept across the stage interacting with fans, retreating only to switch guitars or to bring out his beloved harmonica. 

The night was a collective salute to Leming's journey - from leaving home and living out of his car, to capturing America's heart on "American Idol" in 2008, and relentlessly chasing his dreams regardless of the dead ends in which he found himself. His stories of sacrifice and resiliency added an introspective depth to his already passionate music.

Intimate and transparent, Leming showed every bit of emotion as he ambled through the setlist. From the comically accurate "Six Dollar Check" to the relateably painful “Burn,” he seemed to trust the “Bonnevilles” with every sentiment he’d ever felt. The touching "Keeping Love Alive," a tribute to his late mother, reminded us of the enduring nature of love, while "Another Day at the Factory," offered a glimpse into his roots and the people and moments that shaped him. Most notably, his family.

Leming blended hits from his latest album, Endurance Deluxe (February 2024), and indie-country covers including Taylor Swift's "Anti-Hero," Tyler Childers ”Jersey Giant” and Justin Bieber's "Ghost." Each song, enriched by Leming's unique vocal quiver and sincere emotional delivery, captivated the audience who couldn’t help but sing along.

Collaborations added a special flair to the night, with Mon Rovîa joining in for "Just One Break" and local musician Lillian Hackett accompanying "Blood Moon." These collaborations highlighted the community and connections Leming has formed through his life of music.

The night concluded with "One Last Song" on the piano, a personal confession about finding oneself in a seemingly hopeless place, followed by an encore of "Basic Channels," a nod to Leming's humble beginnings and the simple joys of life.

That night all of Josiah’s Bonnevilles bore witness to a masterclass in gratitude masked behind the lure of unforgettable storytelling. Leming is a living testament to the power in having big dreams and even greater grit; I can't think of a more fitting title for both his tour and album than Endurance.