Backed by her virtuoso band, the award-winning singer-songwriter delivered magic at the hottest new jazz club in Hollywood, delivering riveting sets of transcendent beauty.
By John Lavitt
Hollywood, CA (The Hollywood Times) 09-18-2025
From Montreal but truly a citizen of the world, Dominique Fils-Aimé is a performer not to be missed. If you didn’t know about the mystical rhythms of her night at Blue Note Los Angeles in Hollywood, or if you missed the magic on September 16, 2025, I wouldn’t worry too much. I’m sure the Blue Note will have her back in the future because the new jazz club is dedicated to bringing the best of 21st-century music to Los Angeles.
Our Roots Run Deep is the title of the singer’s fourth album, which was released in September 2023, and the meaning of those words resonated throughout her performance. Here is a woman deeply rooted in a profound respect for her predecessors, yet never allowing those roots to weigh her down. Indeed, the Juno Award-winning album is the first in a trilogy where her music celebrates the dual mysticism of how deep roots never prevent you from taking flight.
Expressing with mystical confidence her belief that love is the ultimate cure for the world, the singer and her band take the audience beyond the toxicity of today’s headlines. In one song, she sings, “They were right to leave, right to use their wings to fly.” This line captures the essence of her music. It is about the freedom to break free and realize one’s true potential as a human being, as an artist in any medium chosen.
Furthermore, the Blue Note Los Angeles served as an ideal venue for Dominique Fils-Aimé and her band’s immersive performance. As a relatively new yet historic venue, now located in the heart of Sunset Boulevard in Hollywood, it provides a fresh experience while connecting guests to the rich traditions of jazz history. Indeed, if you have not experienced this wonderful addition to the Los Angeles music scene, you are missing out on something special.
With a voice that echoes a blend of Billie Holiday and Nina Simone, Dominique Fils-Aimé combines her classical style with modern technological highlights. She brought her magic to the Blue Note Los Angeles, filling the venue with smiles and movement. Truly, in their seats, bodies swayed back and forth between sips of classic drinks and bites of fine food. Creating a fusion of R&B, jazz, and gospel, Dominique Fils-Aimé cultivates a sound that carries a soulful protest music vibe reminiscent of Marvin Gaye in his prime.
From the first chord to the last, it was a truly lively yet deeply rooted night of beautiful music, blending the best of two worlds. The sounds filled the Blue Note, and a strong energy of kindness and creativity spread throughout the club. Indeed, Dominique Fils-Aimé is an artist to follow in the future and not to miss.
Photos by John Lavitt for The Hollywood Times
