Madison McFerrin & The Seshen at Yerba Buena Gardens Festival

May 24, 2025 | Yerba Buena Gardens Festival
by Dave Golden

Madison McFerrin returned to her hometown of San Francisco for an afternoon performance at the Yerba Buena Gardens Festival. Opening with “OMW,” she seamlessly moved through selections from her early work and debut album I Hope You Can Forgive Me, including “(Please Don’t) Leave Me Now,” “Stay Away (From Me),” and “Utah.” McFerrin also offered a preview of her forthcoming album Scorpio, set for release on June 24, with a performance of the new single “I Don’t.” The set celebrated her rising popularity following a recent appearance on NPR’s Tiny Desk and gave fans a glimpse of her upcoming fall tour in support of the new album.

Madison McFerrin | Yerba Buena Gardens Festival

The afternoon began with Oakland-based ensemble The Seshen, who delivered a set that showcased their unique fusion of electronic, soul, and Afro-futuristic sounds. Fronted by the charismatic Lalin St. Juste, the band performed tracks like “Beyond Me,” “Waiting for Dawn,” and “Spectacle,” enveloping the audience in layered rhythms and ethereal melodies.