Platinum-selling folk-pop singer Mary Lambert, who was featured on Macklemore’s “Same Love,” headlined a night of powerful emotion and exceptional inclusivity at the Neptune Theatre Monday night. A trio of slam poets from Youth Speaks Seattle opened the evening — and their hearts. Fresh off the release of her latest album, Ancient Mahogany Gold, electro-soul powerhouse SassyBlack followed up with an energetic set in the lead-up to Lambert’s expressive performance.

The emotional night was started off by a few members of Youth Speaks Seattle, an organization founded on the ideals of giving teens a safe space to express themselves through spoken word.

Youth Speaks Seattle provided a poetry slam, focusing on experiences of youth of color in Seattle.

Each artist wore their heart on their sleeve, expressing deep emotion and frustration.

Youth Speaks touts being "unapologetically infinite, for liberation of self."

Sometimes referring to their phones, these young folks spoke their truth to hundreds.

While many of their poems were about the struggles of being a minority in America, Youth Speaks finds joy in solidarity.

Psychedelic singer-songwriter SassyBlack amps up the energy with the night's second set.

Black gives thanks to the Spirit of Soul.

Black brought a deep layer of vulnerability and, of course, sass to the Neptune.

The expressive, celestial, r&b performance was accompanied by various images.

Black's set proved that the age of being shamed for your sass is over.

Black brings a jazz-influenced feel to her brand of electronic soul.

With a stage presence and sound that leaves the crowd wanting more, SassyBlack signs off.

Headliner Mary Lambert takes the stage, overwhelmed by the crowd's response.

Lambert combines spoken word compositions alongside more traditional pop pieces.

Lambert talks to the gathered crowd about various topics between songs, from LGBT issues to mental health.

Lambert's performance created a “safe spaces where crying is encouraged."

Lambert opens her arms to the vulnerability and love of her fans.

Lambert's charisma is undeniable as she deftly engages with the audience.

Backed by a full band, Lambert still shines on her own.