Shortly after wrapping a successful three-month run in Australia, Jim Beam Welcome Sessions hosted its first-ever New Zealand event with rapper JessB at the QT Rooftop in Auckland.
Since it kicked off in 2021, Jim Beam Welcome Sessions have brought artists and fans together in unique spaces to share good tunes, great vibes and iconic beverages. These shows bring big names to local settings, helping artists get up close and personal with the communities that have always supported them.
Credit: Black On Black
In 2023, for the first time, Jim Beam Welcome Sessions headed to New Zealand for an event that saw Auckland-born and raised rapper JessB return to her hometown for an evening that will never be forgotten.
While New Zealanders notoriously don’t go out in the rain, the combination of a dry rooftop, Jim Beam cocktails and JessB proved to be the winning formula that brought people together and created the perfect evening vibe.
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Jess’ DJ Half Queen got the party going, warming up the crowd and keeping the vibes high while everyone got acquainted and in the mood to party. Jess herself was enjoying the tunes, grooving to the side of the stage with her Jim Beam Peach Iced Tea.
When she took to the stage, Jess delivered an incredible set, including her remix of “Best Friend”, featuring Doja Cat and OKENYO, and “Ring Ring”. The crowd were insatiable, desperate for an encore, and Jess was happy to oblige, keeping the music pumping into the night.
Credit: Black On Black
After the show, Jess hung out with her fans, chatting and taking pics, breaking down barriers and connecting with everyone.
Speaking to Rolling Stone AU/NZ ahead of the show, Jess said connecting with fans was one of the most fulfilling parts of her career.
“My favourite way to connect with people who enjoy my music has always been, and will always probably be, at the live shows,” she said. “The interactions that happen in real life feel more impactful to me personally.”
Credit: Black On Black
Jess’ Jim Beam Welcome Sessions set concluded the 2023 season in ANZ with sets from The Jungle Giants, Lime Cordiale, Drapht, Bag Raiders, and Wafia for a run of shows that delighted fans across the board and underlined the power of live music.
Things may have wrapped up in New Zealand for now, but music lovers will be keeping a close eye on the next announcements from Jim Beam to experience more incredible events.
