This past Thursday night, Lexa Gates brought her enthralling majestic aura to the stage at Racket NYC, dazzling with a performance that left the audience spellbound. Known for her soulful voice and evocative songwriting, Gates transformed the intimate venue into a sonic haven where vulnerability and power harmoniously coexisted.

Lexa Gates is a trailblazing Latinx artist hailing from Queens, New York, whose raw talent and unrelenting drive have carved her an unparalleled space in the music world. Known for her commanding voice and striking look—signature winged eyeliner and wide-framed glasses—Lexa recently gained widespread attention for her viral On The Radar freestyle as well as for her trending unconventional album promotion, where she spent 12 hours in a see-through box in Manhattan listening to tracks off Elite Vessel simultaneously with fans who had a chance to offer their honest opinions on pieces of paper. Drawing comparisons to artists like Mac Miller, Wiki, Earl Sweatshirt, and Amy Winehouse, Lexa’s style remains distinct, characterized by a mix of introspection, unapologetic honesty, and innovative artistry.

Lexa’s musical journey began at home, where her mother introduced her to music theory and composition. By age nine, her mom bought her a keyboard, and the duo started taking vocal lessons together. They performed at cafes around NYC, creating a foundation for Lexa’s artistry. However, her path was not without challenge—she dropped out of school at 15 and faced a tumultuous period. It was during this time she discovered the power of home recording, which became both her lifeline and creative outlet.

A self-taught artist and producer, Lexa started hustling at just 14, playing local venues and honing her craft in her bedroom studio. This relentless determination led to her breakout 2022 album, Universe Wrapped in Flesh, which chronicles her personal struggles, sobriety, and growth. Tracks like “Provider,” which she directed, edited, and styled herself, and “I Just Can’t Be Alone,” produced by Billy Lemos, highlight her ability to weave deeply personal narratives into intricate beats and captivating visuals.

Beyond her artistry, Lexa remains grounded, driven by her desire to inspire her family. “I just want to do things for my mom and my sister and show my mom that this stuff is possible and it’s not a dream,” she says. “If you can think about it, you can get it done.” With a voice as distinctive as her story, Lexa Gates continues to redefine what it means to be a self-made artist, combining her love for contemplation, bold candor, and relentless ambition.

As part of her Elite Vessel tour, Gates brought her signature mix of stunning passion and polished artistry to Racket NYC, captivating a sold-out, packed-in crowd with a setlist featuring both new tracks and fan favorites. Her commanding stage presence and deeply personal lyrics resonated profoundly with the audience, creating an intimate yet alluring atmosphere.

From the moment she stepped on stage, Gates commanded attention. Opening with the hauntingly beautiful “Selfish,” her vocals soared effortlessly, filling every corner of the room. The audience was visibly captivated as Gates poured raw emotion into every note, setting the tone for an unforgettable night.

As the set progressed, Gates seamlessly transitioned between her heartfelt ballads and more upbeat tracks. Highlights included her 2023 stand-alone single, “Angel,” which had the crowd belting out every word back to her, and, my personal favorite off her latest release, “Thinking Of You,” where her effortless vocal flow shone brightest. Each song was accompanied by a palpable connection to the lyrics, pulling listeners deep into her world.

Gates was supported by an exceptional DJ that elevated the performance further, keeping the crowd engaged between songs. The stage set up was minimalistic yet transported attendees to the streets of Manhattan, contributing a visceral touch to the overall performance.

The audience’s energy mirror Gates’ passion. Fans sang along with every word of her older hits, such as “Rotten to the Core,” while being entranced by her fresh material. There wasn’t a single song the crowd wasn’t belting their hearts out to every word of. It was a testament to her growing connection with a dedicated fan base and her ability to craft music that resonates universally.

Gates closed the night with “Where Are You,” a soulful anthem that had everyone in the room left starstruck. The groovy arrangement, paired with her transcendent delivery, left the audience in awe, culminating in cheers for more that echoed long after the final note.

Lexa Gates’ performance at Racket NYC was nothing short of extraordinary. Her artistry, coupled with an undeniable stage presence, cements her as one of the most exciting talents in today’s music scene. If you have a chance to see her live, don’t hesitate—her shows are a masterclass in musical and impassioned expression.

LEXA GATES | WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | FACEBOOK | YOUTUBE