Katie Tupper | The Echoplex | Los Angeles, CA
May 13, 2026
Photographed by Mila Solenberger
Katie Tupper makes performing look easy, exuding a level of confidence and composure unmatched by other young R&B vocalists. The Saskatoon native released her debut album, Greyhound, earlier this year, followed by the announcement of her North American tour of the same name. Tupper is best known for her deep, raspy vocals and honest lyricism within the neo-soul scene, similar to the likes of Charlotte Day Wilson.
May 13 marked Tupper’s much-anticipated LA show at the Echoplex, with Lila Drew as the supporting act. For a Wednesday night, the Echoplex was packed with eager fans awaiting a fun and relaxing night. Like Tupper, Drew is a genre-bending talent, with a love for R&B fusion, making them a complementary duo. The Yale graduate began releasing singles in 2020 and eventually released her debut album, All The Places I Could Be, in 2022.
At roughly 8 PM, Drew took the stage and kicked off the night with a new single called “Same Old Song.” Drew addressed the audience, noting that she wrote and recorded it in New York with her bandmates on stage, making it a full-circle moment for her. The single is mid-tempo and nostalgic in nature, touching on the ruminating thoughts and self-identification that come post-breakup. My favorite moment in Drew’s set was her cover of “Slow Burn” by Kacey Musgraves, which she performed with strong, unwavering vocals. Overall, Drew’s set was both concise and impressive, piquing the interest of many of those around me.
Eagerly, Tupper entered from stage left with wind-swept hair — waving and greeting her fans. Donning a black and white striped set, she kicked off her set with “Disappear” — the first track off Greyhound — warming up the crowd. She swiftly moved into the upbeat “Right Hand Man,” eliciting not only a physical response from the crowd, but also one from Tupper. You can tell that she truly enjoys losing herself in this song while performing it live.
Tupper continued with “Whitney,” “Original Thoughts” and “Safe Ground,” highlighting her smoky and raspy lower register. Mixing in older tracks, Tupper played “Comfort” from her debut EP, Where to Find Me, “Live Inside” and “She Said,” which enthralled the audience with their sensual undertones. Tupper paused for a moment to explain the origin of “Outside The Gate”: her internal battle with bisexuality. She recounted the difficulties of growing up in a rural place and how that can hinder self-discovery. Ultimately, she came to the cathartic conclusion that she shouldn’t be obligated to explain herself to others.
Tupper shifted back to Greyhound tracks, like the slower and sultry “Sick To My Stomach,” and “Cowboy Lullaby,” followed by the lighthearted “Tennessee Heat.” The final standouts for me were “Obviously Desperate” and “JEANS (fall on my knees).” Singing directly to the crowd, Tupper visibly lit up during “Obviously Desperate,” as she danced around the stage to simulate the chorus. She was feeding off the palpable energy in the room, but it still felt carefree and fun. The jazz piano carries “JEANS (fall on my knees),” which allowed Tupper to project more and embellish the song with adlibs, making it feel new. Tupper’s authenticity, vulnerability and willingness to take risks as an artist make her incredibly memorable both on and off the stage.
Keep up with Katie Tupper:
Spotify / Apple Music / Instagram / TikTok / YouTube / Website
