Ve Joyy @ FLARE - 06/05/21

One the true joys I have in Second Life is being entertained by singers from around the world. My trip this morning to FLARE (more about that later) was another fantastic opportunity to enjoy the amazing Ve Joyy (vernajoy), who hails from Manila, Phillippines. The breadth of the set she delivered was impressive. The downbeat revealed her master of classics as she pulled me back to High School with a fabulous rendition of ABBA's "Dancing Queen". Keeping the energy up she had all of us dancing as "Fame" echoed throughout this amazing venue (yes… more…. yes…. later).

One the benefits of being of a certain age is that I have an impressive knowledge of music from several decades. Another one is that I continue to be exposed to new music through shows in SL. Ve Joyy didn't disappoint as she encouraged me to learn about Aqua based on her cover of "Barbie Girl". A clearly ironic song in SL (and another candidate for my perfect SL playlist). And while I've been aware of Katy Perry's "Firework", I hadn't really enjoyed it as much as I did today.

Other songs in this thoroughly enjoyable hour included Madonna's "Crazy For You", Rhiannon's "Please Don't Stop The Music", "Bad Guy" by Billie Ellish and "I'm Still Into You" by Paramore and others. The show closed with another new (to me) song, "Levitating" by Dua Lipa. I always enjoy being exposed to new sounds and today's list of songs and the fresh and energetic vocals Ve Joyy effortlessly delivered was among the best hours I've had in SL in some time.

Now about this venue. FLARE is the masterpiece of Christopher Coffee (I think he just picked that name because he wants to be on women's mind and lips first thing in the morning). Many venues work toward the lowest common denominator in terms of graphics and experience. They work hard to ensure the experience is the best for the most number of people. FLARE turns that on its head (it is NOT a laggy experience). It is geared toward Residents who want a high energy, vibrant, active and fun experience. Based on a roller rink the experience includes a HUD to rez skates, configured them (colors, etc) and use them (singles and couples). The handy HUD also includes functions to tip the venue and the performer. This much activity can be disconcerting, particularly for perennial wallflowers such as myself. However, it is FUN to skate while listening to great music.

Another aspect of FLARE that is remarkable is the customization of the venue Chris does for each artist. As you can see from the picture of the venue, each artist gets their name in lights! Chris is generous in passing out all sorts of knick knacks to raise the fun level. The glowing hoops are real treat. In addition the Wheelz venue where Ve Joyy rocked Thursday in SL Chris has 3 other venues on the same parcel. There is always something happening at FLARE and you NEED to get to more of them!

Ve Joyy is a new singer on the scene hailing from Manila, Philippines. Both of her parents are singers so she was introduced to singing at a very young age. She sings Pop, RnB, Rock, Disney, Ballad, Country and Latino music. Ve was a co-host on one of the most famous shows in the Philippines. She also sang at Punchline and Laffline Comedy Bar in Manila. Ve has many accomplishments with developing thousands of subscribers and you may also check her out on Youtube (Verna Vlog). Come watch the most electric new singer in SL. Ve's mixture of amazing music and her sweet personality will make her an instant hit!