Photos: Raphael Saadiq & Band of Skulls at The Annenberg Space for Photography

Of the three shows in the Who Shot Rock and RollLive series, the final one felt the most special.

Maybe it was the booking of TWO excellent bands, each with a very different sound and devoted audience. Maybe it was the capacity crowd relishing in the summer energy, knowing fall is right around the corner. Or maybe it was simply because it was the last show in a truly unique concert series, taking place in a grassy knoll tucked away between beautiful buildings that was literally transformed for the occasion. Either way, we went out with a bang.

DJ Anne Litt warmed up the crowd with a DJ set before Raphael Saadiq took the stage with a 6-piece band. The crowd was immediately on their feet and his energy lit up the entire venue. He is an incomparable performer and the soulful sounds of his band filled the night air and inspired a lot of dancing, from kids on their parent’s shoulders to the devotees at the front of the stage.

Band of Skulls simply rocked it. They kicked it off with current KCRW favorite “Sweet Sour” but, watching them that night, I realized how many GREAT songs they have. They ended the nearly hour-long set with a quintet of tunes that exude the kind of confidence that defines rock ‘n’ roll — bluesy, unapologetic, and simply epic.

Each one seemed to rev up the crowd more until it was all over.

Even if you missed the live shows, you can still see the Who Shot Rock and Roll ​exhibit. It’s open until October 7 and, judging by the constant line out the door during the show, it’s well worth a visit.

Check out set lists and more photos below.

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Raphael Saadiq Set List:

Stone Rollin

Heart Attack

Radio

100 Yard Dash

Leopard Skin Pill Box

Moving Down The Line

Sky

Sweet Sour

Patterns

Wanderluster

Bruises

Hollywood Bowl

I Know What I Am

Devil Takes Care of His Own

You’re Not Pretty But You’ve Got it Going On

Light of the Morning

Death by Diamonds and Pearls