Drake Performs Live In The UK 1st Time 1st Date In Glasgow, Scotland

via the Independent Live at the 02 Jan. 4th, 2011.

"It's been one of the greatest experiences of my life, playing my first international show for you," said the Canadian actor-rapper Drake, towards the end of his set, before pointing out that unidentified timekeepers were warning that he had run over. "I waited my whole life for this," he said, "so if they wanna fine me, if they wanna penalise me, I don't care." It was only half-past ten, though, so there seemed little danger of his turning into a pumpkin.

Aubrey Drake Graham talks the talk, but there is an air of controlled professionalism just below the surface. This is not surprising, given that the 24-year-old Torontonian made his name as an actor, most notably in the teen drama Degrassi: The Next Generation. His latest role, as a No 1 album artist in the US and Canada with last year's Thank Me Later, has been played to perfection, featuring collaborations with Kanye West, Eminem, Lil Wayne, Nicki Minaj, Timbaland and Rihanna. (The last, "What's My Name?", provided his biggest hit.)

Possibly due to the postponement of planned UK dates around the time of its release, Thank Me Later was not so successful here. The positioning of this debut British tour so close to the New Year, then, suggests that Drake is keen to build a following before the release of his second album in the spring. This was a gig which made an impression. It was not always a good one, but it staked his claim as an arena-filling artist to watch in 2011.

His entrance, featuring a cool strut on to the stage under the amber glow of a video-screen sunrise and a modern take on the James Dean uniform of scruffy denims and black leather jacket, was designed to get his female fans onside. "Forever" and "Up All Night" were serviceable big-room hip-hop openers, giving way to a lazy, top-down r'n'b groove through "Unstoppable" (first line: "I'm Drizzy and I ain't perfect") and the staunch and heartfelt meditation on fame that is "The Resistance".

The show had been enjoyable, if not mindblowing, when a series of slips into tired rap orthodoxy threatened to derail things. "Successful" came with musings that it was all about the "money and the cars/ cars and the clothes/ the hos... especially the hos"; "Every Girl" featured the charming line "I just can't pick one so you can never say I'm choosy"; and "What's My Name?" was prefixed by a giggling, teenage-boy description of how Drake liked to "treat" a girl in bed.

Such sentiments sit somewhere between dumb and downright sleazy, and they cheapened the many highs of the show. "Bollywood Flow" and "Shut it Down", for example, exercised some of the futuristic electro nightclub glamour that fans of Kanye West will know, while the joyous "Best I Ever Had", and particularly a wonderful coda to "Miss Me" which saw Drake spend five minutes giving personal shout-outs to dozens of individuals in the crowd, were lovable and inclusive set pieces.

After that rebellious turn against whoever was tapping their watch in the wings, the anthemic "Over" cascaded through an array of positive lyrical messages, a mighty turn from the full backing band, flaring neon lights and a flash of fireworks at the finale. For a show which wasn't without its sour moments, it made for a sweet ending.

Drake J. Cole as special guest UK Dates:
Fri 01/07/11 - London, United Kingdon - HMV Hammersmith Apollo
Sat 01/08/11 - London, United Kingdom - HMV Hammersmith Apollo
Tue 01/11/11 - Manchester, United Kingdom - O2 Apollo Manchester
Fri 01/14/11 - Birmingham, United Kingdom - The NIA

(video courtesy of JodieOHanlon, BhoyMarkyB and CheyChez)

more video below.

Wu-Tang Clan Dallas, TX Concert Recap

As reviewed by Jesse Hughey at the Dallas Observer. photo courtesy of Kevin Todora

(Friday, December 10th) The night started with Enter The Wu-Tang (36 Chambers) interspersed with Raekwon and GZA solo material, but frequently returned to the obvious crowd favorite 36 Chambers material. They even did "Method Man" in Method's absence, and the crowd didn't seem fazed.

Another highlight was a cameo by Erykah Badu, who stepped on stage long enough to soak in the roar of approval from the crowd but sadly didn't touch the mic. Still, the moment was enough to add to the love-fest, family reunion vibe. As did the appearance from Young Dirty Bastard, son of the late Ol' Dirty Bastard, who led the group through verses of "Shimmy Shimmy Ya" and "Baby I Got Your Money" in tribute to his father. Which might be why the group's sorta-sincere cover of the O'Jays "Family Reunion" went over so well.

Closing the set with 36 Chambers classics "C.R.E.A.M." and "Protect Ya Neck," the Wu departed in a swarm, leaving some random MCs on the stage to lead the crowd through chants of "Wu! Tang!" until the shouts gradually and awkwardly died down as the realization set in that yup, that was it.

read the full review HERE

Photos from the show HERE

Also read Dallas News review HERE



More video footage HERE

(above video courtesy of Ryan Richardson)

Jason Derulo Los Angeles Concert Recap

I had the privilege to check out Beluga Heights / Warner Bros. artist Jason Derulo live at the House of Blues in West Hollywood, CA on Monday, October 18th. It all came out of the blue very quickly, but I was prepared.

This past year has been a momentous year for Jason Derulo. While quietly releasing his debut album in 2010, Jason bursted on the scene with a vengeance spawning 3 chart topping hits and completing an impressive tour run with the Black Eyed Peas and Lady Gaga as the coveted opening act.

I came into the show with no preconceived notions of what I was about to witness, which helps to keep matters at hand fresh. Little did I know, Jason unleashed a juggernaut of a live stage show.



As the lights went down and the fog rolled in, the anticipation at the House of Blues was on high. Jason came out in all black stage regalia and 'laser beams' on his finger tips. Then he proceeded to tear the premiere live spot on Sunset Strip down with "The Sky Is The Limit" and "Whatcha Say" his 1st chart smash with the Imogen Heap sample in place. It didn't let up from there. With his dancers and his superb back up band, Jason seduced the audience with his brand of music, swift dance moves, emotionally drenched songs and entrancing stage presence. Not quite Usher, not quite Justin Timberlake, only better - brand Jason Derulo I call it!

Check out more highlights from the show below.











In the middle of his set, Jason did his version of "Billie Jean" (view above) and J. Timberlake's "Sexy Back," the crowd ate it up. Later brought a girl from the crowd on stage and did a bump and grind sort of thing. The girl from the audience was tickled pink, to say the least.



Something is to be said about the opening act, fellow Beluga Heights artist Auburn. Auburn brought an unspecting surprise that you don't normally find in a opening act, full on entertainment! (view above) Judging by the audiences' reaction, Auburn is in good company on this tour and ready to break out into 'super' stardom. Look for Auburn soon to be taking over the charts and stages across the world very soon.

Special Thanks to K.S., Jennifer and all the fine folks at WMG / Warner Bros. / Beluga Heights who helped in arranging the show.

Be sure to catch Jason Derulo on tour while you can.

Dates below.

Fri 10/22/10 - Lawrenceville, NJ - Rider University
Sat 10/23/10 - Houston, TX - Warehouse Live
Mon 10/25/10 - Dallas, TX - House Of Blues
Wed 10/27/10 - Atlanta, GA - Center Stage
Thu 10/28/10 - Tampa, FL - The Ritz Ybor

(video courtesy of AyumiPULP, distant sights & aznzondemand)

Eminem & Jay-Z Detroit Concert 1st Night Play By Play Minute By Minute

2nd night in Detroit is under way, let's review last night's festivities.

via The Detroit Freepress

7:30 P.M.: Jay-Z Bailing Afterward?
Word among show personnel is that Jay-Z will be immediately exiting the stadium upon completion of his set -- in other words, no appearance during Eminem's set. He'll be headed to his waiting Gulfstream jet to fly home to New York, then return for the second show. Wife Beyonce is here in Comerica Park.

Jay-Z is waiting for darkness before taking the stage, to accommodate film crews who are chronicling the show. NOTE: Sources later said Jay-Z might have stayed backstage after all.

8:30 P.M.: A Fleet Of Escalades
With the Beastie Boys cranked on the stadium PA, there are seven minutes until Jay-Z's set. The rapper and his posse just arrived in a caravan of Escalades behind the right-field wall.

8:37 P.M.: Heavyweights Expected
Among the expected guests during Eminem's set: 50 Cent, Dr. Dre and Drake.

8:40 P.M.: The Countdown
Curtains have come down, lights are off. An onscreen countdown clock gets fans roaring: 50 seconds 'til Jay-Z hits the stage.

8:45 P.M.: Jay Starts Rocking
With a blast of lights and an epic, squalling rock lick, Jay-Z took the stage at 8:40 p.m., alone at center stage delivering lines from the opening of his 2000 album "The Dynasty: Roc La Familia."
Upon the song's conclusion, he urged show directors to bring the house lights up. "Just give me two minutes -- I've gotta take this all in," he said, grinning as he took in the crowd of 40,000-plus. "This is hip-hop music and this is how far we've come."



9:40: Frenetic Set Pauses To Honor Fallen Stars
Jay-Z, dressed in black and wearing a Yankees cap, has been whipping through a loud, fast-paced set, backed by a tight live band and a massive high-def video screen.
This is his stage, but he's been happy to share the spotlight: Young Jeezy and Memphis Bleek have already joined him for onstage collaborations, and Jay devoted a lengthy segment honoring fallen music stars such as Biggie Smalls, Tupac Shakur and Detroiters Proof and Aaliyah.
Hot songs like "Big Pimpin'" and swaying numbers like "Forever Young" have been interspersed with abbreviated medleys of tunes such as "Hard Knock Life" and "A Dream." With taupe-tinted Detroit images projected behind him, he delivers a jazzy rendition of "Thank You."

10 P.M.: Entering 'Empire State Of Mind' -- 'I'm Going To Take You Home'
Jay-Z heads into the homestretch with an appropriately epic-sized "Empire State of Mind."
"I'm going to take you home -- my home," the New York star tells the receptive Detroit crowd.
Minutes later, grinning wide, he closes up his set with a jazz-laced performance of "Numb."
"I had an incredible time with you," Jay tells the Comerica Park crowd. "This was one of the best experiences of my entire life."

10:05 P.M.: Jay-Z Killed It; Eminem Up Next
Jay-Z has left the stage. Everything is about 15 minutes behind -- Eminem is expected to go on at about 10:45 p.m. There's a low buzz around the ballpark as fans take in what they just witnessed: an impressively energetic set that found Jay-Z killing it onstage.

10:35 P.M.: First Eminem Performance In A While
Lost in the buildup to this week's shows was an important reality: Eminem hasn't spent much time on a concert stage lately. Until Thursday night, the self-confessed studio hermit had played just four full sets since his Comerica Park show in 2005 -- all festival appearances. This first hometown show in half a decade presented a vastly different sort of challenge.

10:36 P.M.: Eminem Builds Ferocious Energy
Eminem, a Detroit Tigers hoodie draped over his ballcap, hits the stage for a fierce performance of his new "Won't Back Down." It's already a different vibe than the one set by Jay-Z : sharper, grittier, darker.
He's got the microphone gripped tight as he tensely paces the stage, occasionally glancing out to soak in the sea of bodies in front of him. You can practically feel his heart and adrenaline coursing as he takes in the moment.

10:47 P.M.: Trick Trick Joins For 'Welcome To Detroit'
A grinning Trick Trick, clad in white, has bounded onstage to join Em for a bumping version of "Welcome to Detroit," a montage of Motor City imagery rolling on the big screen behind them.

11:10 P.M.: D12 Helps Em Walk Through The Catalog
About 30 minutes in, it looks to be an eclectic, career-spanning set, as members of D12 occasionally make their way onstage: Em quickly dips back in time, ripping through 1999’s “Kill You” with slinky backing from the live band behind him. He jumps through the years, placing older tunes (“Cleaning Out My Closet”) next to songs from his new “Recovery.”



11:12 P.M.: An Assured Pace; B.O.B., Drake Come Out
Opener B.O.B. has returned to the stage for his Eminem duet "Airplanes II." The songs are rolling one after another now: "Kill You," "The Way I Am," "So Bad," "Stan."
Eminem is locking into a confident groove. The early tension is growing into a self-assured command of the stage, as the rapper pumps his fists to exhort the crowd.
A clean-cut Drake is the next guest out, joining Eminem for a run through their hit "Forever."



11:25 P.M.: Working Hard With 50 Cent
The stars are definitely out on a Thursday night in Detroit : Now it's 50 Cent onstage with Eminem, working through a head-bobbing rendition of 50's "Patiently Waiting."
The stage lights drop to reveal 50's illuminated jacket. He continues his cameo with a booming "In Da Club" and the night's latest exhortation that fans put their hands up.
Em has certainly put in a shift: It's a gorgeous, mild night in Detroit, but his gray T-shirt is completely drenched in sweat.



11:40 P.M.; No Rihanna, But Lady Gaga Expected Tomorrow
Eminem launches into the summer's biggest single, "Love the Way You Lie." Ironically, it might be the first disappointment of the night for some fans: confirmation that studio partner Rihanna is not on the night's guest list.
But another female star is expected to be here for Friday night's show: Lady Gaga. The pop star is in Milwaukee tonight, but is headed this way for her Saturday show at the Palace. Folks behind the scenes say she'll spend her Friday night here at Comerica Park, though it's unknown if that's onstage or off.

12:07 P.M.: Encore Ends With Fireworks
Having closed his regular set with the anthemic "Not Afraid," Eminem has begun his encore: a pulsing rendition of "Lose Yourself." With the city skyline glowing behind him, the biggest Detroit music act of the past quarter-century rolls through his signature song.
It's the biggest moment in a night of big ones. The self-empowerment of "Lose Yourself" couples neatly with the strength-through-humility of "Not Afraid," and with a shot of colorful fireworks, Eminem ends his show on a potent, inspirational note.

Photo links:
Wire Image
Getty Images

After tonight's 2nd Detroit show it's off to Yankee Stadium NYC September 13th & 14th.

more footage below.






(video courtesy of kontraband2, Radio One Detroit, hillzskillz69 and teezynoble)

Wu-Tang Clan London, UK Concert Recap

via NME

Wu Tang Clan covered The Beatles classic 'Come Together' as they rounded off their UK tour in London tonight (Wednesday, August 4).

Lead singer RZA rapped over the opener to the Fab Four's 1969 album 'Abbey Road' at the end of their show at Brixton Academy for the band's first show in three years.

The rap collective played a host of tracks from their back catalogue with much of their material leaning towards their 1993 debut album 'Enter The Wu-Tang (36 Chambers)'.

Setting out their stall early on, RZA declared: "It is the year 2010 and Wu Tang Clan are on tour. Manchester was off the hook last night (August 3). This is the last night of our tour so we're going to save the best for last."

The tour was their first since 2007 and was meant to include the full line-up. But Method Man pulled out due to filming commitments for an episode of CSI. The rapper previously appeared in The Wire as Calvin 'Cheese' Wagstaff.

RZA acknowledged his absence, apologising to the throng towards the end. "We're sorry Method Man couldn't make it," he said. "He's in Hollywood. We're going to let him know how loud you were though."

RZA also announced his own forthcoming movie project The Man With The Iron Fist to the crowd.

Earlier the band paid tribute to late member Ol' Dirty Bastard, who died of an accidental drug overdose in 2004, by asking the audience to lift up lighters and mobile phones in his honour.

But the biggest cheer of the night was reserved for their only UK hit single 'Gravel Pit', which you can watch below.

Wu Tang Clan played:

'Protect Ya Neck'
'Clan In Da Front'
'Bring Da Ruckus'
'Tearz'
'Triumph'
'Ice Cream'
'Liquid Swords'
'U God'
'Reunited'
'It's Yourz'
'One Blood Under W'
'Wu-Tang Clan Ain't Nuthing Ta Fuck Wit'
'Da Mystery of Chessboxin'
'C.R.E.A.M.'
'Baby C'mon'
'Can It All Be So Simple'
'Gravel Pit'
'Come Together'

(video courtesy of kateit17)

50 Cent San Francisco Concert Review

As reported by Carla Selvin / SF Weekly

50 Cent
@The Warfield
June 3, 2010

Better than: Any sideshow in the Bay Area

Hanging behind the stage at 50 Cent's show last night at the Warfield was a monstrous self-portrait of 50 emerging from a cityscape, with lava pouring out of his mouth and eyes. This apocalyptic stage setup mirrored the testosterone-fueled music that 50 Cent is all about.

But before the scrim was raised, a silhouette of the 34-year-old holding a laser-pointing gun stood center stage for a while, which caused the audience to fall to pieces, screaming.

The hot-rod rapper finally appeared last night in excellent form, smiling from ear to ear. "I have one question for you," 50 asked the exuberant audience: "Where the ladies at?"

50 ran through his massive list of hits slowly over the course of the evening, saving favorites such as "Candy Shop" and "Magic Stick" until the bitter end. This left the audience in screaming shambles.

At one point, the hulking rapper flashed a knowing grin. "I know you all love 50," he said, "but I know you all love 40!" All of a sudden, the Bay Area's own E-40 stepped onstage and busted out a version of "Tell Me When To Go" that probably would've made Mac Dre turn over in his grave. The audience sang along and couldn't have been more enthusiastic.

Later on in his set, 50 showed off another special guest. Too Short sprung out from the curtains and gave a whirlwind performance of his hit "Blow the Whistle" that sent everyone for a loop. Then the Oakland rapper disappeared almost as suddenly as he arrived.

50 Cent changed outfits a handful of times during his set, and each time he came out wearing something new he threw at least one article of clothing into the crowd. In turn, women in the audience started throwing lingerie and brassieres onstage, which 50 put in the back pocket of his jeans.

The shared respect and love between 50 cent and the audience was astounding. To a lot of fans, 50 Cent is a godlike figure, having overcome a rough adolescence on the streets of Queens to become a multimillionaire and celebrity. Some kids in front even brought copies of 50's new self-help book The 50th Law, hoping they could score his signature.

The good vibes in the Warfield last night were infectious, with star-struck fans singing along to every word coming out of the rapper's mouth. But it was clear to everyone who was having the most fun -- 50 himself.

Photo links:
Getty Images
Film Magic

50 Cent The Invitation Tour dates:

6/6 – Las Vegas, NV @ The Pearl Concert Theater at The Palms
6/7 – Phoenix, AZ @ Celebrity Theater
6/10 – Kansas City, KS @ Midland Theatre
6/11 – Dallas, TX @ Music Hall at Fair Park
6/12 – Houston, TX @ Arena Theater
6/15 – Miami, FL @ The Fillmore
6/17 – Atlanta, GA @ Tabernacle
6/18 – Myrtle Beach, SC @ House of Blues
6/22 – New York, NY @ Hammerstein Ballroom
6/23 – Wallingford, CT @ Chevrolet Theater
6/24 – Boston, MA @ House of Blues
6/25 – Atlantic City, NJ @ House of Blues

B.o.B Makes His Official Live Debut In London, England Concert Recap

As reported by Lisa Verrico / London's Times Online

(Thursday, May 27 at King’s College, London) His debut single, Nothin’ on You, shot straight to the top of the charts last week and its follow-up, Airplanes, will be inescapable over the summer. If you don’t know B.o.B now, you soon will.

The Atlanta-based, 21-year-old rapper born Bobby Ray Simmons is already a star in America. Having made waves on the hip-hop scene since his teens, he went to No 1 last month with his debut album, B.o.B Presents the Adventures of Bobby Ray, released here this week. In Britain we prefer our rap home-grown, but B.o.B is proving an exception, not least because his hip-hop sounds more like mainstream pop.

At his first British gig, where he was lavished with chants of “B-O-B” by a crowd who already knew lots of his lyrics, he brought a breath of fresh air back to rap. Looking all of 16 and sporting the silliest pair of trousers since MC Hammer — tight jeans that came up to his waist, but had a crotch that went down to his knees — he may have welcomed the crowd with a swear word, but his songs were packed with positive vibes and his cheery beats harked back to the days when Salt-N-Pepa had hits.



An opening run of tracks taken from his acclaimed mix tapes Cloud 9 and May 25, sung over a basic backing track, showcased B.o.B’s fun, easy flow and ear for a nagging pop hook. He was still solo when the crowd erupted for Airplanes, which had the guest vocalist Hayley Williams from the rock band Paramore only on tape but still came close to stealing the show.



It was when B.o.B brought out his band, however, that he veered from traditional rapper to multi-tasking pop star. A pair of guitarists, a female keyboard player and a bare-chested drummer added rock and reggae to the mix, played a song that recalled Snow Patrol (Letters from Vietnam) and backed the rapper on two beautiful ballads, Satellite and Don’t Let Me Fall.



Before closing with a roof-raising Nothin’ on You, B.o.B broke every rule in rap when he pulled out a stool, sat down and strummed an acoustic guitar. The French horn he plays on the album, sadly, had been left at home.

more footage below.





(video courtesy of erin9208 & Soul Culture)

Alicia Keys "Freedom" Tour London, England O2 Arena Concert Recap

As reported by John Aizlewood / London's Evening Standard

As globe-straddling divas go, there are none less diva-like than Alicia Keys. In a glitzy world of Gagas, Beyoncés, Madonnas, Rihannas and Mariahs, Keys keeps her clothes on and stands out by virtue of what she doesn’t do.

So, last night (Tuesday, May 25), she didn’t do anything especially eccentric — unless having a tubby, bespectacled, kilt-wearing bassist counts — and of her three outfits, two were so dowdy there might be something in those pregnancy rumours, or else Tehran is her Freedom tour’s next stop.

Her stage show was on the unspectacular side of spectacular, and having four keyboards to choose from (including a guitar-style one shaped like a key), she didn’t bother with choreography, leaving that to a gurning dancer who seemed to be tasked with invading her body space throughout the evening. And yet, if we do the honourable thing and ignore what seemed to be Keys’s platitude-related Tourette syndrome (“The most important thing about love is being able to love ourselves... I want you to be a rebel with me tonight...” etc, etc) she triumphed — and triumphed gloriously — with a masterfully judged mix of strength of will and power of song.



Consequently, platitudes notwithstanding, Keys exuded authenticity, and on ballads such as Like The Sea and Pray For Forgiveness she had the precious knack of making the O2 suddenly seem very intimate indeed.

Backed by a crack band attuned to her every nuance and a trio of superlative backing singers, she could do tear-stained epic in the grandstanding Try Sleeping With A Broken Heart, and exuberant up-tempo on the clattering, percussion-propelled Wait ’Til You See My Smile.

Even without Beyoncé, their Put It In A Love Song duet was heady pop at its most hip-wiggling.



The best came last. Her co-write with Jay-Z, Empire State Of Mind, already has the unmistakable feel of a 21st-century standard.

As she delivered it in almost hymnal fashion, for a genuinely emotional moment it felt as if we were all children of the Five Boroughs. She may be short on diva-esque style, but Alicia Keys is all substance.

Photo Links:
Getty Images 1
Getty Images 2
Corbis Images
Wire Image
Rex Features
WENN Photo 1
WENN Photo 2

Alicia Keys 2010 Element of Freedom Tour Dates:

5/26 - London, UK - The O2 - London
5/29 - Manchester, UK - Manchester Evening News Arena
5/31 - Paris, France - Palais Omnisports de Paris-Bercy
6/2 - Barcelona, Spain - Palau Sant Jordi
6/4 - Lyon, France - Halle Tony Garnier

(video courtesy of KaFicagna)

Damian 'Jr. Gong' Marley & Nas Live In Oakland, CA Concert Recap

As reported by By Jim Harrington / Oakland Tribune

It worked.

Many believed the pairing of controversial rapper Nas and reggae star Damian "Junior Gong" Marley had potential. Yet, only a true Pollyanna, one with little experience in these types of cross-genre collaborations, could've predicted that the results would turn out as satisfying as what was witnessed on Tuesday night at the Fox Theater.

It was especially impressive given that this co-headlining tour, which features both men onstage at the same time, is only the fourth date on the trek, yet the duo has already managed to strike a near seamless blend of hip-hop and reggae. It's probably safe to say that the 36-year-old rapper and the 31-year-old son of Bob Marley put in plenty of rehearsal time.

The Fox (on Tuesday, May 25) show sold out only one day before the event, yet there were dozens of people trying to buy tickets outside the venue. Scalpers were having a field day, demanding (and getting) nearly four times the original ticket price of $39.50.

Late but urgent demand for tickets is standard operating procedure for these two genres. Also credit the recent release of the duo's album, "Distant Relatives," which hit stores last week.

The 2,800 people who managed to score seats — a colorful mix of hip-hop fans in heavy sports gear, wannabe Rastafarians wearing Marley shirts and other music lovers — were sure glad they did.

After a few opening acts — including a DJ that went on so long I nearly got carpal tunnel simply from watching the guy work — Marley and Nas took the stage 45 minutes late and delivered a nearly two-hour set of mostly killer tunes.



Junior Gong, sporting a bundle of dreadlocks that hung below his knees, and Nas, looking sharp in dark sunglasses and a black Oakland A's cap, nicely blended their distinctive voices as they rocked out, accompanied by a nine-piece band, plus (at times) two dancers and (always) a tenacious dude waving a huge Jamaican flag.

Marley, a three-time Grammy winner best known musically for his 2005 smash single "Welcome to Jamrock," provided plenty of sun-splashed moments on the microphone. His sweet delivery found an unlikely complement in Nas' harder-edged, often quite dark raps. Together, they drove home a sense of urgency to "Africa Must Wake Up," "Leaders" and "Dispear."

Nas — who proclaimed that "Hip Hop is Dead" with the title of his 2006 album, then went on to do everything in his power to prove himself wrong — had some deliriously good solo moments. The tongue twisters he delivered in such tracks as "Hate Me Now" and "If I Ruled the World (Imagine That)," showed why he's considered such a force in hip-hop.

The duo closed out the main set with a tremendous take on "Welcome to Jamrock," then put an exclamation point on the evening with an uplifting encore of Bob Marley's great "Could You Be Loved."

Nas and Junior Gong might be "Distant Relatives," but this is one family get-together that hip-hop and reggae fans won't want to miss.

Photos:
Oakland Tribune

(video courtesy of Always Hustle)

Nas & Damian Marley 'Distant Relatives' NYC Album Release Party Concert Recap

report courtesy of XXL

Nas and Damian Marley celebrated today’s release of their ambitious rap-meets-reggae album, Distant Relatives, with a performance last night (Monday, May 17) at a sold-out Highline Ballroom in New York City.

DJ Green Lantern set the mood by spinning numerous reggae classics before the duo fittingly walked out around 10:15 p.m. to “As We Enter,” the opener from their LP. Minutes later, Nas was still acquainting himself with the new material as he read the lyrics for “Friends” off of his phone, while the backing band—complete with hand drummers—captivated the audience.

“Nah Mean” proved the perfect segue into the first of the QB rapper’s solo sets. Ending with the line, “So now I do rapping, it pays,” God’s Son then dipped into his first hip-hop classic of the night, “Nas Is Like,” with both Green Lantern scratching and the ensemble on their respective instruments. And during “If I Ruled The World,” he slipped in a quick tribute to the recently departed Guru, singing, “My man Guru… walked right up to the sun” during the song’s refrain.

In between tracks, Nas reminded the crowd, “Hip-hop and reggae been related since the early days,” shouting out DJ Kool Herc and his Jamaican heritage. The legendary DJ later joined him onstage during his second solo set after Marley had worked the crowd up with “Move,” his body-long dreadlocks flying around throughout.

Later, the pair rejoined for “Strong Will Continue,” after which Nas’ revealing third verse was met with the loudest applause of the evening. “Hate Me Now” followed poignantly before Esco once again went solo for “One Mic,” supported only by a djembe.

Marley returned for “Welcome to Jamrock,” and the duo then performed their first collaboration, 2005’s “Road To Zion.” “Africa Must Wake Up,” the last track on Distant Relatives, closed out the nearly 2-hour show.

“Thank you for rocking with us on this music journey, this experience,” Nas signed off, with Damian by his side.

more photo links and show coverage here:
Brooklyn Vegan
Vibe
Wire Image
WENN Photo
Dino Perrucci Photography

(video courtesy of SoulAfrodisiac)

Juvenile & Mannie Fresh Deliver Hometown Tunes Live At The Jazz & Heritage Festival In New Orleans

via The Times-Picayune

Both Juvenile and Mannie Fresh have new albums out from late 2009, but Sunday (May 2) at the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage presented by Shell, the rapper and DJ -- who go back almost 15 years as Cash Money Records label mates -- stuck largely to the old school.

It went back even farther than that at the set's opening on the Congo Square "My Louisiana" Stage. DJ Mannie Fresh did not, actually, DJ at all during the set; that was left to Leroy "Precise" Edwards, who produced Juvenile and Mystikal's earliest tracks, and DJ Wop, who's been running with Fresh since the early 80's, spinning at block parties with the New York Incorporated hip-hop crew.

After a verse from "Go DJ," and the Big Tymers' "Still Fly," Fresh invited out rapper Gregory D, with whom he'd put out an album, "D Rules The Nation", in 1987.

"Me and this dude basically started this," Fresh explained, grinning. The larger-than-life Gregory D replied, "I knew Mannie Fresh wasn't gonna come out to the Jazz Fest and not invite Gregory D!"

A bass player slapped his strings as the two performed their 80's local hit "Buck Jump Time," a shout-out to New Orleans projects, local references and in-jokes with a second-line tuba bass line and a syncopated beat. Then Juvie took the stage and fast-forwarded things ever so slightly, with "400 Degreez" (1998) and "Set It Off" (2000).

Juvenile detoured to the present once, with "Gotta Get It," the second single off of last fall's "Cocky And Confident," but for the most part, he and Fresh stuck to their old catalogs, sparring and joking easily as if the stage were their living room.

"This is the greatest hits of Universal Juvie right here," he said. "Did we forget anything, y'all?"

The mood was briefly somber as Juvenile gave shout-outs to two late Cash Money artists who were killed in the 90's, Pimp Daddy and Yella Boy of UNLV. He then performed "Slow Motion," a collaboration with Soulja Slim that became a posthumous hit when Slim was killed before its release in 2003.

The only off-kilter moment was the introduction of So Fresh, a gangly, teenage-looking rap duo from Metairie currently working with Fresh. Gesturing and jumping like an extra-spastic version of the Beastie Boys, they performed a song that seemed to be about being excited to turn 21, so that they could drink Jagermeister and throw up. It was very hard to tell if it was a joke.

Thankfully, their song was as brief as it was confusing, and it was back to back-in-the-day. The closer was the party-pumping "Back That A-- Up" (little attention was paid to language at Congo Square during Juvie's set) seguing into "Drop It Like It's Hot." Even in the light mist of rain and gusting wind, the crowd did as told.

Photo links:
Getty Images
Wire Image
Film Magic

(Video courtesy of BillyHarrellH20)

Drake Live At The New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival Concert Recap

As reported by Susan Langenhennig / The Times-Picayune

Drake is a ladies man, no doubt about it.

About 20 minutes into his 6 p.m. close-out set at the 41st annual New Orleans Jazz Fest (Saturday, April 24) presented by Shell, the Canadian-born rapper decided to pluck one lucky woman from the audience to join him on stage for a dance. The heavily female, mostly under-20 crowd responded with what could only be described as Beatles-era shrieking.

"Now ladies, you have to know, if you come up here, anything is liable to happen," he teased as he scanned the faces for volunteers.

Despite all that bluster, the 23-year-old rapper was a perfect gentleman when Jade, the young lady - or should I say girl - who caught his eye was handed up to the platform.

"How old are you?" he asked.

"Seventeen," she responded.

At that, he kissed her on both cheeks and forehead and sent her on her way.

When he wasn't romancing the ladies, Drake, born Aubrey Drake Graham, was rocking an R&B-infused rap set. Dressed all in black with spotless white tennis shoes, he perched at the edge of the stage. Launching into "I'm Going In," he gave a shout out to New Orleans (incarcerated) rapper Lil Wayne, calling him "My Big Brother."

For his final song, Drake segued into "Say Something," prompting the crowd to break out in a collective bounce that sent plumes of muddy brown water splashing up in waves, just as the sun began to set.

Photo links:
Film Magic
Wire Image

(video courtesy of stopandhearthemusic)

Jay-Z Coachella 2010 Concert Set Video Recap

Jay-Z at last week's Coachella appearance, with fireworks at the end included.

Related:
Jay-Z Live At Coachella Day 1 Concert Recap

(video courtesy of Mashfest)

Snoop Dogg Live At Brooklyn Bowl NYC

via XXL

Last night (Monday, April 19) Williamsburg’s expansive new venue, Brooklyn Bowl, was filled to the brim with Snoop Dogg fans. Dressed in a Yankees bomber jacket, the West Coast legend and his Dogg Pound ran through an hour-long set of their greatest hits.

Snoop opened up with his classic track “Murder Was the Case” and kept the momentum going with explosive performance of “Gin and Juice.”

Towards the middle of the show The Doggfather held a tribute to hip-hop’s beloved fallen soldiers Tupac Shakur and The Notorious B.I.G, leading the crowd in a sing-along of the rap icons’ biggest songs, including “Hail Mary” and “Hypnotize,” respectively.



The show then took a smooth turn as the D-O-double G went into “Sexual Eruption.” Surprisingly, Snoop’s band transformed the laid back cut into a cover of House of Pain’s “Jump Around,” whipping the audience into a frenzy.

After finishing off his set with his funkdafied banger “Who Am I? (What’s My Name?),” Snoop reminded everyone of the three most important things to do everyday—brush your teeth, be thankful for another day…and you know the rest.

Check out the photo link with Snoop, Slick Rick, DJ Whoo Kid and others from the show here :
Wire Image
Metromix NYC

(video courtesy of Matthew Rodriguez)

B.o.B. Live At Coachella 2010

Entertainment Weekly had this to say about Bobby Ray aka B.o.B.'s Coachella (Sunday, April 18) afternoon live set:

Deep bass rumbled through the field. “I just feel separated from you,” B.o.B said before climbing down toward the crowd to sing his jubilant hook from T.I.’s “Top of the World”: “I used to dream, oh, oh, about the money and the cars and girls/But now I sing, oh, oh, because I’m sitting on top of the world.” And with the second-biggest single in the country for weeks on end, he is, isn’t he? Soon B.o.B picked up a guitar to show off his rock chops. He’s a decent axeman, but only a couple of songs from this part of his set (“Don’t Let Me Fall,” “Satellite”) were at all memorable. At last he played that aforementioned No. 2 smash, “Nothin’ on You.” The crowd crooned along with his sweet-natured lyrics, a reminder of the pop platform that this unusual new star now has.

Photo links of B.o.B. performing at Coachella:
Getty Images
Film Magic

Download the audio from B.o.B.'s Coachella full live set courtesy of Young Kingz here:

B.o.B. Coachella 2010 Sunday, April 18 live set

more fan shot video below.





(video courtesy of the Qside & Kidcouture1)

Jay-Z Live At Coachella Day 1 Concert Recap

(photo courtesy of Rodrigo Peña / Riverside Press Enterprise)

Show recap via the Desert Sun

Jay-Z closed out the Coachella festivities Friday night (April 16) to massive crowd of cheering fans.

“Dude, it’s Jay-Z; he practically owns hip hop,” said Jennifer Boehmke, 33, of Santa Monica while she anxiously waited for the rapper to hit the stage.

The Grammy-award winning artist opened his set by rising from the stage floor around 11.10 p.m. with smash hit “Run this Town,” from his eleventh studio album “The Blueprint 3.”

Songs that followed include the enormously popular single “Empire State of Mind,” in addition to “Big Pimpin’,” “99 Problems,” and “Izzo (H.O.V.A.).”

A short video clip featuring President Obama played before Jay-Z launched the song “Dirt Off Your Shoulder” roughly midway through his set.

Leading up to the festival, rumors suggested rapper Dr. Dre, would perform with Jay-Z, but the former N.W.A. member was nowhere to be seen. Dre’s unreleased single off his highly anticipated album “Detox” features the Coachella headliner.



Around 12:30 a.m., after several minutes of shout outs to the crowd, Jay-Z’s equally famous wife, R&B artist Beyonce Knowles joined him on stage for the ballad “Forever Young,” also from “The Blueprint 3.”

Jay Z completed his set around 12:45 a.m. with the song “Encore” while the crowd danced and shouted along with the music.

Photo links here:
Riverside Press Enterprise
Wire Image
Film Magic
Getty Images
Rex Features
WENN Photo

more video below.

Erykah Badu Album Release Party Secret Show In Los Angeles, CA Recap

Reported by Gerrick D. Kennedy / Los Angeles Times

“Had three babies by three different dudes, ran in the nude in Dallas,” Erykah Badu sang amid loud cheers from fans that packed into her not-so-secret show at the El Rey Theatre on Tuesday (March 30) evening.

It would be the only time that Badu would make reference to the controversy she is facing surrounding her latest video, “Window Seat.” In the clip, which has gone viral, she is seen walking the streets of Dallas near the site where JFK was assassinated, slowly stripping; the moment after she takes off her last piece of clothing, the singer is shot by an unseen assassin.

On Monday, Badu took to her Twitter page to advertise the release party/concert celebrating the unveiling of her fifth album, “New Amerykah Part Two (Return of the Ankh),” tweeting, “secret show in los angeles at 9 pm 3/30/2010 shhh...” It might not have been much notice, but judging by the line stretching down Wilshire Boulevard, word had got out.

Fans waited patiently while she spent time greeting the crowd and posing for pics. She hit the stage at close to midnight.

Taking the stage in a tan trench coat and beaded braids that flowed down her back (a throwback to the late funk singer Rick James?), Badu offered no apologies or explanation for the delay before launching into “20 Feet Tall,” the lead track from her new album.

“Then you, you built a wall, a 20-foot wall so I couldn’t see… If I get off my knees, I might recall I’m 20 feet tall,” she sang behind a hushed groove.

Flanked by a band that included a harp and flute, which blended seamlessly with the funk-filled sounds of the keyboard and drums, Badu transformed the packed house into a religious service -- albeit one where the pastor allows marijuana -- as fans testified and sang along to songs that included tackling the government, personal liberation and, of course, love, her pitch-perfect vocals encouraging plenty of chants.

“New Amerykah Part Two” is filled with the nostalgic soul that Badu is known for, and her live offering was no different. While fans might have had their endurance tested with the wait at the standing-room-only show, her lush harmonies made up for the delay, and she commanded the audience for her hour-plus show. She didn’t offer many songs from her new album, instead treating fans to classic tracks from her catalog, turning hits such as “On & On,” “Love of My Life” and “The Healer” into jam sessions.

Badu might have tested our patience before the show began, but once her voice filled the theater, no one seemed to mind; fans just wanted to get their own “Window Seat” into the world of Badu.

Rap-Up's review of the show here:
Erykah Badu LA Album Release Party

more fan shot video footage below.







(video courtesy of msway30ish & DJ Booth)

J. Cole Live At S.O.B.'s NYC Concert Recap

via Showing Out

Last night at New York City venue SOB’s, the Roc was definitely in the building. Performing to a sold-out crowd, Roc Nation’s own J. Cole ripped through cuts off his seminal mixtape The Warm Up and threw in a few surprises during his hourlong set, including guest appearances from Young Chris, Talib Kweli and Hi-Tek to help out on a few of their collaborations with the freshman emcee. With a crowd packed into the venue tighter than a shrunken pair of skinny jeans, the show was a taste of bigger things to come for the rapper, who’s readying his Roc Nation debut for release later this year.

With industry figures like Statik Selektah, Sha Money XL and Pill watching from V.I.P., J. Cole made his grand entrance to the stage at around 10:30 P.M., kicking off the show with a rendition of “Dollar & A Dream II” where the North Carolina emcee spit acapella before the DJ kicked the instrumental. Cole followed with “World is Empty” before addressing the crowd, reflecting on how he arrived to NYC seven years prior and caught a relatively unknown Kanye West play at the very same venue. Cue “Last Call,” which Cole destroyed before segueing into his “Dead Presidents II” freestyle, the centerpiece of his Warm Up tape.



Cole next brought out Young Chris as his first guest of the evening, bringing the on-wax magic of their collabo “Still the Hottest” alive on stage. “I Get Up” and “Losing My Balance” followed, with Cole pandering to the crowd by bigging up Queens and Brooklyn. “Dreams” and “Lights Please” came next, with the latter seeing the rapper spit over a naked keyboard melody before the beat crashed in and kicked the joint into full gear.



Once the beat for Talib Kweli’s “Get By” began booming through the speakers, Cole spit his verse from his freestyle before inviting Talib Kweli and DJ Hi-Tek on stage to do the original track, rocking the beat before performing their collaboration “Just Begun” off Reflection Eternal’s forthcoming sophomore album Revolutions Per Minute. But the highlight of the evening? Cole played some new shit for a song called “Who Dat,” a joint that began with an instrumental that sampled the same beat as Beanie Sigel’s song of the same name, with the instro cutting out to let Cole spit it acapella. The up-and-comer shut down the set with his verse from Wale’s “Beautiful Day” and “Grown Simba,” and by the end, the star that had only recently been born had truly begun to shine.

Photo link:
Wire Image

Check out more J. Cole SOB's live reviews here:
New York Times
Entertainment Weekly
MTV
XXL
Hip Hop Update
Hip Hop DX

A nice video montage recaping the show from 2 dope boyz below.



more fan shot footage below.





(video courtesy of LaceZilla, akirshba, 2 dope boyz, HenritoLuvsTRL, Young CTV & Hip Hop & BS)

Clipse Live At The University Of Houston Concert Recap

via XXL

The fact that Virginia-bred duo the Clipse has a fanatical, cult-like following couldn’t have been more apparent than at the University of Houston’s Frontier Fiesta last Friday (March 26).

“We have a good fan base that follows us wherever we go,” Pusha T said. “It’s always a select bunch of Clipsters that come out to our shows.”

Clipse started their set with the chord organ-laced “Momma, I’m So Sorry,” before segueing into “What Happened to That Boy,” sans Birdman. Re-Up Gang member Ab-Liva then rotated into the cipher to bless “Cot Damn” with his 16 before fading back into the woodwork.

Malice and Pusha kept it moving with selections from their We Got It 4 Cheap mixtape series, riding the hard-hitting collection of jacked beats with their trademark vivid and witty rhymes.

The brothers Thornton then dug deep into their back catalog of hits, including the unhinged, percussion-driven “Grindin’” and “Mr. Me Too.” The crowd of students recited every word like it was hip-hop karaoke night.

Not surprisingly, the self-proclaimed pioneers of coke-rap closed the show with “Kinda Like a Big Deal,” “I’m Good” and “Popular Demand (Popeyes)” from their latest LP, ‘Til The Casket Drops.

Photos and full show report here:
XXL - Clipse “Kinda like a Big Deal” at University of Houston

(video courtesy of hdashkane)

Alicia Keys Plays The KEYtar At 'Freedom' Tour Stop In Baltimore + Concert Recap

As reported by Sam Sessa / Baltimore Sun

Alicia Keys came uncaged (Wednesday, March 24) at 1st Mariner Arena.

With images of barbed wire fences flashing on the big digital screens around her, Keys was wheeled out in a rectangular cage for the opening number, "Love is Blind."

Keys sang most of the song inside her personal prison, before dramatically bending back the bars and stepping out to freedom.

In case concertgoers didn't get the point, Keys would spend the next hour dropping inspirational lines between songs while the screens displayed words like "Rise Up" and "Fight."

"I don't want anybody to hold you back," said Keys, her legs shimmering in tight silver sequined pants. "Everything you need is right here inside of you." ...

Might as well add "motivational speaker," to her resume, which already includes armfuls of Grammys and millions upon millions of albums sold. Still, all the uplifting messages got old quick. We get it, Alicia -- love ourselves and break free of the chains that bind us. You don't need to beat us over the head with it.

It was a relief when, in the last third of her 90-minute set, Keys put an end to all the positive messages and let the music speak for itself.

"You Don't Know My Name" was a synth-driven high-stepper, and the James Bond theme "Another Way to Die" was built on singeing guitar riffs. But the show's most poignant moments came when Keys sat down at her black Yamaha baby grand and tickled the ivories. She's got a diva's talents without the attitude, and last night, she had a few toys, too.



During "Fallin'," she played what looked like some kind of electronic auto harp, and for "Go Head," she strapped on a silver, key-shaped keytar (how awesome is that?) and traded solos with her guitarist (the guitarist won). Even the piano was tricked out with a wrap-around digital screen, which said "PLAY ME," and when she did, it read "THANK YOU." Heh.

Keys' accomplished six-piece band and a well-paced set list helped the 19-song show fly by. The harmonies of her three backup singers were air tight; Monte Gill showed and proved on "Diary" and one of the female backup singers surprised the audience with an impressive rendition of "Feeling Good" while Keys slipped into a white evening gown backstage.

The show ended on a strong note, with "If I Ain't Got You," a modern classic, and the 2007 mega hit "No One." The encore was "Empire State of Mind (Part II)," a spine-tingling ode to the Big Apple.

In an age when radio is saturated with Auto-tuned anthems and outrageous outfits, it was such a treat to sit down with an undeniably talented singer and songwriter for an evening of liberating R&B, gospel and pop.

Photo links:
Rex Features

Set List:

1. Love is Blind
2. You Don't Know My Name
3. Fallin'
4. Another Way to Die
5. Karma
6. Like the Sea
7. I Need You
8. Pray For Forgiveness
9. Diary
10. Like You'll Never See Me Again
11. Wait Til You See My Smile
12. Go Ahead
13. Put It in a Love Song
14. Unthinkable (I'm Ready)
15. Feeling Good
16. Try Sleeping With a Broken Heart
17. Superwoman
18. If I Ain't Got You
19. No One

Encore:

Empire State of Mind (Part II)

more fan shot footage below.



Alicia Keys 2010 Element of Freedom Tour Dates:

3/27 - Miami, FL - American Airlines Arena
3/28 - Tampa, FL - St. Pete Times-Forum
3/30 - Atlanta, GA - Philips Arena
4/2 - Dallas, TX - Nokia Theater (Grand Prairie)
4/3 - Houston, TX - Toyota Center
4/6 - Los Angeles, CA - Staples Center
4/7 - Santa Barbara, CA - Santa Barbara Bowl
4/9 - Las Vegas, NV - Mandalay Bay
4/10 - Oakland, CA - Oracle Coliseum
4/29 - Lisbon, Portugal - Pavilhao Atlantico
5/1 - Ischgl, Austria - Ski Resort
5/2 - Verona, Italy - Arena
5/4 - Marseille, France - Le Dome
5/7 - Berlin, Germany - O2 Arena
5/8 - Arnhem, Netherlands - Gelredome
5/9 - Frankfurt, Germany - Festhalle - Messe Frankfurt
5/12 - Hamburg, Germany - Color Line Arena
5/13 - Oberhausen, Germany - Konig - Pilsener Arena
5/15 - Merksem, Belgium - Sportpaleis Antwerpen
5/17 - Zurich, Switzerland - Hallenstadion Zurich
5/19 - Birmingham, UK - The NIA
5/21 - Dublin, Ireland - The O2 Dublin
5/23 - Glasgow, UK - S.E.C.C.
5/25 - London, UK - The O2 - London
5/26 - London, UK - The O2 - London
5/29 - Manchester, UK - Manchester Evening News Arena
5/31 - Paris, France - Palais Omnisports de Paris-Bercy
6/2 - Barcelona, Spain - Palau Sant Jordi
6/4 - Lyon, France - Halle Tony Garnier

(video courtesy of kbaby82)