words by Patty Riek
photos by Jon Bauer
Fantastic Negrito, Oakland denizen and Bay Area musical phenom, performed with the San Francisco Symphony on Saturday, September 27, 2026. On glorious display was Fantastic Negrito’s unique melding of rock, blues, and soul coupled with his expansive vocals.
His ballads such as “Working Poor,” “I Hope Somebody’s Loving You,” and “Honest Man” showcase his poignant story telling. His reworking of “Lost in the Pines” highlights his facility making classic songs contemporary by adding his own Fantastic Negrito stamp.
Fantastic Negrito’s authentic energy and raw lyrics were hard earned. He explained on Saturday that he has always been a flashy dresser since he was child number eight of fifteen and wanted to draw attention to himself. This anecdote segued into “California Loner” – a deeply personal song about his father. Using his voice as an instrument Fantastic Negrito expresses the loss, the longing, the search for understanding for a parent’s choices.
Known for his sartorial prowess, Fantastic Negrito wore a red suit fringed with Thai inspired accents and a brown cloche hat adorned with feathers. Performing at the symphony was a literal feather in his cap. Fantastic Negrito started busking outside BART stations, was the first Tiny Desk Concert performer, and has won three Grammys. With grace and gratitude, Fantastic Negrito embodies his song “Bullshit Anthem.” He has taken the hard times of his life and turned them “into good shit.” After his tribulations, he has been “knocked down, but [he keeps] on fighting.”
Supported by his band (Bryan C. Simmons – keys, Vincent Maclauchlan – guitar, Matteo (Teo) Quale – guitar, Brian Braziel – drums, LJ Holoman – keys) and the full San Francisco Symphony conducted by Jonathan Taylor Rush (music arranged by Andrew Joslyn) added sonic complexity. The layers of voice, individual instruments, and musical punctuation melded to yield a singular sound.
Fantastic Negrito closed out the ovation worthy night with a rollicking version of “Lost In A Crowd.” The song that started an incredible career.
Yay to Fantastic Negrito and the SF Symphony for excellent programming. It’s easy to silo musical genres, but cross genre connections add depth to our musical experiences.
