A/N - This is a bit of a fun chapter based off Ariana Grande singing I Have Nothing at the Women of Soul: In Performance at the White House in March 2014. I wanted to write another performance chapter and this just lined up perfectly.
"Did she just ask the President 'what's up how are ya'?" Jade asked as her, Tori and Andre gathered in front of the TV screen, watching Cat as she was about to perform in front of the president.
"I think she did." Andre replied, laughing at how silly that was.
"Only Cat would be able to get away with something like that." Tori laughed too. "I'd be way too nervous to joke."
"I think she is nervous." Jade replied, mind still a little fried from the fact this was all happening; Cat performing in front of the literal president. Was she really already considered a Women of Soul. Her online covers of the great soul singers really were amazing, but to be honoured with an opportunity like this so early in her career? Was the sign of just how spectacular she was.
The stage lights dimmed, casting a soft blue glow across the stage. Cat stood centre in a long glimmering black dress, the room quiet and still as anticipation built. The first notes of "I Have Nothing" were played behind her, filling the space with a gentle piano melody, and Cat closed her eyes, grounding herself. This was a song that demanded every ounce of emotion, and she knew it.
As she took her first breath and sang the opening line, her voice was soft, intimate, laced with vulnerability. The notes drifted out, delicate and unwavering, drawing the audience in as she bared her heart. Her voice grew with each line, strength and power blending with the rawness of her delivery, filling the room with a presence that felt both familiar and electric.
By the time she reached the chorus, Cat's voice soared, the rich, soulful tone carrying each word, each note. She sang with a fierce honesty, her eyes open now, connecting with the crowd as if each member was sharing in the emotions behind the lyrics. It was as if she was singing not just the song, but a part of herself—offering up pieces of her own journey, her own struggles and triumphs, with every line.
The audience was mesmerised, caught up in the magic of her performance. The band arrangement was rich and dynamic, the intensity building with every verse. The piano swirled around her, the saxophones adding a soulful edge, while the drums and bass gave her performance a pulsing strength. Her voice soared above it all, finding a balance between vulnerability and power, filling each word with emotion. Her voice, raw and unfiltered, rising and falling with the passion and intensity of the song. She reached the bridge, her voice unwavering and powerful, yet soft in the quiet moments, showing both strength and tenderness.
For the final note, the band softened, holding a subtle but unwavering backdrop as Cat's voice took centre stage once more. She held the note, strong and steady, her voice echoing over the quieting music, and as she let the last lyric fade, the band dropped off perfectly in sync.
A moment of silence lingered, the audience captivated, breathless, before erupting into applause. As Cat took a deep breath, absorbing the waves of appreciation, she knew that this performance was a defining moment. An absolute honour to have been able to perform which such amazing women.
Jade, Tori and Andre were on their feet applauding too- over 2000 miles away but still whooping and cheering as if Cat could hear them. "And to think that girl thought she wasn't good enough to be a singer." Andre shook his head to himself after they finally settled down.
"Well that's cause she's an idiot." Jade replied, her words harsh but said with love.