Love Never Felt So Good

On October 25, 2024, the Gay Men’s Chorus of Tampa Bay delivered an electrifying performance at Ruth Eckerd Hall's Margarete Heye Great Room in Clearwater, Florida. As part of their concert "The Good, the Bad, and the Gay", the chorus showcased an array of dynamic performances, each designed to celebrate the diverse experiences of the LGBTQ+ community. One of the evening’s most memorable moments came when five talented members—Joanna Bodo, Jon Gutierrez, Brian Compton, Mikey Matheson, and Vic Omila—took the stage to perform the hit song “Love Never Felt So Good,” originally recorded by Michael Jackson and later reimagined by Justin Timberlake.

The song, which blends Jackson's signature smooth pop with Timberlake's modern flair, was brought to life with infectious energy and flawless vocal harmonies. Bodo, Gutierrez, Compton, Matheson, and Omila infused the performance with a palpable sense of joy and camaraderie, engaging the audience with their lively stage presence and impeccable vocal control. The song’s upbeat, feel-good lyrics—about the exhilaration of love—were a perfect fit for the chorus’s spirit of celebration, making it an ideal highlight of the evening.

The five performers delivered a rendition that felt both fresh and nostalgic, seamlessly honoring the legacy of Jackson’s original while adding their own interpretation. Their voices blended effortlessly, creating a sound that was at once soulful and spirited. This performance exemplified the essence of "The Good, the Bad, and the Gay", which explored the highs and lows of the LGBTQ+ experience, all while celebrating the power of love, acceptance, and unity.

Held at one of Clearwater’s premier venues, the concert was an unforgettable evening, leaving the audience inspired and uplifted by the powerful combination of music, performance, and pride.