Tori Kelly Delivers Intimate Tiny Desk Performance Highlighting New Album and Sing Cover

On September 10, 2026, NPR Music’s Tiny Desk series brought singer‑songwriter Tori Kelly to its Washington, D.C. studio for a live session that blended the freshness of her latest record with a touch of nostalgia.

The performance arrived just a few months after the release of Kelly’s sixth studio album, God Must Really Love Me, which debuted on June 12, 2026 through Epic Records. She stepped up to the desk accompanied by her all‑woman band: guitarist Jordan Waters, bassist Kyla Wright, keyboardist Lynette Williams, drummer Taylor “The Pocket Queen” Gordon, and background vocalists Chelsea “Peaches” West, RaVaughn Brown and Mariah Bernard. The stripped‑down arrangement, a hallmark of Tiny Desk shows, put Kelly’s vocal prowess and songwriting front and center.

The set opened with the title track “Hurts So Good,” followed by “Without You,” “Fly,” and a cover of Stevie Wonder’s “Don’t You Worry ‘Bout a Thing.” The choice of that song was notable because Kelly voiced Meena in the 2016 animated film Sing, where the character performs the same track. She then moved through “Bird,” “Control,” and “Tokyo,” all taken from God Must Really Love Me. During brief interludes, she teased two additional songs—“Nobody Love” and “Dear One”—offering listeners a broader glimpse into the album’s blend of pop, R&B, and gospel themes that reflect her faith journey and recent experience as a new mother.

Behind the camera, producer Ashley Pointer led the Tiny Desk production team. Director and editor Joshua Bryant captured the performance, while audio engineer and mix engineer Josephine Nyounai handled the sound. Host and series producer Bobby Carter introduced Kelly, and the video was shot by Bryant, Maia Stern and Bronson Arcuri. Valentina Rodríguez Sánchez provided additional audio support, and the Tiny Desk crew—Kara Frame, Josh Newell and series editor Lars Gotrich—ensured the final product met NPR’s standards.

Kelly’s appearance on Tiny Desk follows a career that began with a YouTube presence and a 2010 American Idol appearance. She has released five studio albums before God Must Really Love Me, including the Grammy‑winning Hiding Place (2018). Her work has earned her multiple awards, including two Billboard Music Awards and three Grammys. In addition to her recording career, Kelly has contributed to film soundtracks, most notably voicing Meena in Sing.

The session was posted on NPR Music’s YouTube channel the same day it was recorded, giving a global audience immediate access. Viewers noted the intimacy of the setting and Kelly’s conversational delivery, which contrasted with the high‑energy production of her studio releases.

Tiny Desk is known for showcasing artists in a relaxed, acoustic environment that highlights musicianship and songwriting. Kelly’s set reinforced that reputation, offering a glimpse into the creative process behind her latest album while honoring her roots in gospel and pop.

As of now, the performance has not been followed by additional releases or tour announcements. However, the show serves as a promotional platform for God Must Really Love Me and demonstrates Kelly’s continued relevance in the contemporary music landscape.

The recording remains available on NPR Music’s platform and is part of the broader Tiny Desk catalog, which includes performances from a wide range of genres and artists.