Tag: Music

Freddie Gibbs Brings “Alfredo: The Tour North American Edition” to Life: A Celebration of Grit and Groove this Fall

Hip-hop fans, mark your calendars—Freddie Gibbs, the relentless storyteller from the streets of Gary, Indiana, is hitting the road with “Alfredo: The Tour North American Edition.”

This fall trek celebrates the release of Alfredo 2, the highly anticipated sequel to his 2020 Grammy-nominated collaboration with producer The Alchemist. Kicking off in September and winding through major cities across the U.S. and Canada, the tour promises high-energy performances blending Gibbs’ razor-sharp lyricism with The Alchemist’s soulful, sample-heavy beats. Supporting acts like Jalen Ngonda, MAVI, and Sven Wunder will join on select dates, adding layers of R&B, rap, and instrumental flair to the lineup.

Born Fredrick Jamel Tipton on June 14, 1982, in Gary, Indiana, Freddie Gibbs grew up on the city’s east side amid challenging circumstances. He briefly attended Ball State University on a football scholarship but was expelled, leading him to enlist in the U.S. Army at age 19 as part of a pre-trial diversion for theft and gun charges—only to be dishonorably discharged after eight months for marijuana use. Turning to music, Gibbs connected with local producer Finger Roll and joined the No Tamin Entertainment crew, releasing his first mixtape, Full Metal Jackit, in 2004. A short-lived deal with Interscope Records in 2006 ended without an album due to label shakeups, but Gibbs persevered independently.

His breakthrough came in the 2010s with mixtapes like Cold Day in Hell (2011) and Baby Face Killa (2012) during a stint with Young Jeezy’s CTE World. After parting ways in 2013, he founded his own label, ESGN, and dropped his debut album of the same name. Gibbs’ solo discography shines with projects like Shadow of a Doubt (2015), You Only Live 2wice (2017), Freddie (2018), Soul Sold Separately (2022)—which peaked at No. 11 on the Billboard 200—and You Only Die 1nce (2024). His collaborative work stands out, including three with The Alchemist (Fetti with Currensy in 2018, Alfredo in 2020, and Alfredo 2 in 2025). Alfredo earned a Grammy nod for Best Rap Album, while Gibbs’ uncredited feature on Ye’s “Back to Me” (2024) hit No. 26 on the Billboard Hot 100. Beyond music, he’s ventured into acting with roles in Power Book IV: Force (2022), Bust Down (2022), and the film Down with the King (2021).

“Alfredo: The Tour” draws from the raw, introspective vibes of the Alfredo series, where Gibbs grapples with personal growth, street life, and moral ambiguities over The Alchemist’s intricate production. Expect sets heavy on tracks from both albums, plus fan favorites from Gibbs’ catalog. The tour spans from Philadelphia on September 20 to San Francisco on November 10, hitting theaters, ballrooms, and iconic spots like Red Rocks Amphitheatre.

For fans in and around Rochester, New York, the nearest stops offer prime opportunities to catch Gibbs live without a long haul:

The closest is Toronto, Ontario, on October 19 at History, just about 160 miles away—a quick drive across the border. Tickets start at around $75.

Next up is Cleveland, Ohio, on October 17 at Agora Theatre, roughly 220 miles from Rochester, with tickets also starting near $75.

Detroit, Michigan, follows on October 18 at the Masonic Jack White Theatre, about 330 miles away, where prices begin at $79.

If you’re up for a bit more travel, the Brooklyn, New York, shows on September 21 and 22 at Brooklyn Paramount (around 340 miles) have tickets starting at $75.

With Gibbs’ reputation for electrifying live shows—fueled by his unfiltered delivery and crowd command—this tour is a must-see for anyone craving authentic hip-hop. Tickets are available now via major outlets like Ticketmaster, but act fast as high-demand stops could sell out. Whether you’re drawn by the beats, the bars, or the backstory, “Alfredo: The Tour” is set to serve up a feast of hip-hop excellence.

August 24, 2025
Rascal Flatts to Ignite Buffalo with 2026 Life Is a Highway Tour Finale

Buffalo Country music fans in Western New York are gearing up for an unforgettable night as Rascal Flatts brings their “Life Is a Highway Tour” to the KeyBank Center on February 28, 2026, marking the grand finale of their 21-city trek. The iconic trio—Gary LeVox, Jay DeMarcus, and Joe Don Rooney—will cap off their much-anticipated 2026 tour with a high-energy performance, joined by special guests Lauren Alaina and Chris Lane, promising a night of nostalgic hits and heartfelt harmonies.

Following a sold-out 2025 tour celebrating their 25th anniversary, Rascal Flatts is back to “keep the party going,” as DeMarcus enthused, with a setlist packed with fan favorites like “What Hurts the Most,” “Bless the Broken Road,” and, of course, their anthemic “Life Is a Highway.” The tour, named after their 2006 hit and recent Life Is a Highway: Refueled Duets album, showcases the trio’s signature blend of soaring vocals and arena-ready energy, reimagined with collaborations from artists like Blake Shelton and Kelly Clarkson.

Fans in Buffalo can expect a nostalgic yet fresh performance, with Alaina and Lane adding their own chart-topping flair to the evening.

The KeyBank Center show, set to kick off at 7:00 PM, is already generating buzz, with tickets starting at $39 on Ticketmaster and VIP packages offering premium seats, exclusive merchandise, and access to the Rascal Flatts VIP Lounge. After a five-year hiatus, the trio’s return has been met with overwhelming fan enthusiasm, and Buffalo’s passionate country music scene is ready to deliver a raucous sing-along to close out the tour.

Don’t miss your chance to see Rascal Flatts light up Buffalo on February 28, 2026. Tickets are on sale now at RascalFlatts.com and VIPNation.com. With a limited run of shows, this is one highway you’ll want to ride to the very end.

August 24, 2025
JID’s “God Does Like Paradise Tour” North American Leg Preview

Atlanta rapper JID, born Destin Choice Route, is set to ignite stages across North America with his “God Does Like Paradise Tour,” the North American leg of his expansive “God Does Like World Tours.” This blockbuster run, supporting his critically acclaimed fourth studio album God Does Like Ugly (released August 8, 2025, via Dreamville/Interscope), kicks off October 15, 2025, in Virginia Beach, VA, and wraps with a two-night finale at Brooklyn’s Paramount on December 15 and 16. With fellow Atlanta native Young Nudy as a special guest for most U.S. dates, alongside additional acts like Baby Kia, DC The Don, and Kai Ca$h, JID is poised to deliver a high-energy celebration of hip-hop that showcases his lyrical dexterity and electrifying stage presence. For fans in and around Rochester, NY, the tour offers several nearby shows to catch this rising star in action.

JID’s Background: From East Atlanta to Global Stages

Born on October 31, 1990, in East Atlanta, JID grew up immersed in his parents’ collection of classic funk and soul LPs, which shaped his eclectic musical palette. Influences like OutKast, Goodie Mob, Lil Wayne, and Wu-Tang Clan fueled his passion for hip-hop, while his fluent rapping style and intricate wordplay have earned him widespread critical acclaim. JID first gained recognition with independent projects like Route of Evil (2012), Para Tu (2013), and DiCaprio (2015). His big break came in 2017 when he signed with J. Cole’s Dreamville Records, releasing his debut album The Never Story, which featured the standout single “Never.” Subsequent projects, including DiCaprio 2 (2018) and The Forever Story (2022), solidified his reputation as a lyrical powerhouse. His 2021 single “Enemy” with Imagine Dragons, the theme for Netflix’s Arcane, became his highest-charting hit, peaking at number five on the Billboard Hot 100.

JID’s latest album, God Does Like Ugly, has been hailed as one of 2025’s strongest hip-hop releases, with critics praising its ambitious production and introspective storytelling. Featuring heavyweights like Clipse, Vince Staples, Ciara, and Westside Gunn, the album reflects JID’s evolution as an artist who carries “the weight of Atlanta’s past, present, and future” on his shoulders. The tour’s title, God Does Like Paradise, nods to the album’s themes of resilience and redemption, promising fans a live experience that’s both raw and reflective.

Tour Highlights and Rochester, NY Proximity

The North American leg of the “God Does Like Paradise Tour” spans 31 shows across major cities, with Young Nudy bringing his signature trap energy to all U.S. dates (except Canadian stops). The tour’s itinerary includes stops in Chicago, Seattle, Miami, and more, but for Rochester, NY, fans, three nearby shows stand out:

•  October 22, 2025 – Toronto, ON @ REBEL: Just a three-hour drive from Rochester, this show at the 2,500-capacity REBEL nightclub offers an intimate setting to experience JID’s dynamic performance. Note that Young Nudy will not appear at this Canadian date, but JID’s solo set, likely featuring tracks like “WRK” and “Surround Sound,” will keep the energy high.

•  October 24, 2025 – Montreal, QC @ MTELUS: A four-hour drive from Rochester, this stop at the 2,300-capacity MTELUS venue promises a vibrant atmosphere. Like the Toronto show, it’s a Young Nudy-free performance, but JID’s reputation as a “notorious live performer” ensures a memorable night.

•  December 15-16, 2025 – Brooklyn, NY @ Brooklyn Paramount: Approximately a five-and-a-half-hour drive from Rochester, these back-to-back shows mark the tour’s grand finale. The 2,700-capacity Brooklyn Paramount will host JID and Young Nudy, delivering a high-octane close to the North American leg.

What to Expect from the Tour

JID’s live shows are known for their raw, unfiltered energy, transforming venues into “high-octane, crowd-shaking celebrations.”. Additional acts like Baby Kia and DC The Don will bring fresh voices to the stage, amplifying the tour’s appeal. JID’s promise of a special Atlanta hometown show (date TBD) underscores his commitment to his roots, but for now, Rochester fans can plan road trips to Toronto, Montreal, or Brooklyn to catch him live.

Tickets for North American shows are available through Ticketmaster.

His journey from East Atlanta to global stages mirrors the hustle and heart of his music, making these shows a must-see for fans of lyrical precision and authentic storytelling. Whether you’re vibing to “151 Rum” or reflecting on the personal narratives of God Does Like Ugly, JID’s “God Does Like Paradise Tour” is set to be a defining moment in his career—and a thrilling experience for North America

For more details and tickets, visit www.jidsv.com.

August 23, 2025
Joey Bada$$ Announces Dark Aura Tour w/ Rapsody & Ab-Soul, Bringing Lyrical Fire to North America

#UPDATE

Joey Bada$$ has canceled his Dark Aura Tour

In a sudden and disappointing turn, Joey Bada$$‘ highly anticipated “Dark Aura Tour,” has been reportedly cancelled.

New York’s own Joey Bada$$ is set to ignite stages across North America with his Dark Aura Tour, a 25-date run kicking off October 16, 2025, in Boston, Massachusetts, and wrapping up November 21, 2025, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The tour, named after his latest single “Dark Aura,” features hip-hop heavyweights Ab-Soul and Rapsody as special guests, promising a night of introspective lyricism and high-energy performances. With his forthcoming album Lonely at the Top dropping August 29, 2025, Joey is poised to make 2025 a defining year. Fans near Rochester, New York, will have several opportunities to catch this powerhouse trio at nearby stops.

Joey Bada$$: From Pro Era Prodigy to Hip-Hop Luminary

Born Jo-Vaughn Virginie Scott, Joey Bada$$ emerged in 2012 with his debut mixtape 1999, a nod to East Coast rap’s golden era that showcased his lyrical skill at age 17. As a co-founder of the Pro Era collective, he blended raw storytelling with boom-bap beats. His albums B4.DA.$$ (2015) and 2000 (2022) cemented his status as a voice for conscious rap. Beyond music, Joey’s acting roles in Mr. Robot and Power Book III: Raising Kanan, along with his entrepreneurial and activist work, highlight his versatility. His upcoming album Lonely at the Top explores fame, isolation, and resilience, with singles like “Dark Aura” and “The Ruler’s Back” setting the tone. The Dark Aura Tour marks his first headlining run since 2022, joined by Ab-Soul’s cerebral rhymes and Rapsody’s poetic flow.

Tour Highlights and Rochester-Area Shows

The Dark Aura Tour hits major cities like Chicago, Los Angeles, Atlanta, and Brooklyn, but fans in Rochester, New York, can catch the show at several nearby venues. The closest stops include:

•  October 20, 2025 – Toronto, ON @ REBEL (approximately 85 miles from Rochester, a 1.5-hour drive across the border). This show at the vibrant REBEL venue brings Joey, Ab-Soul, and Rapsody to Canada’s hip-hop scene, making it the most accessible option for Rochester fans.

•  October 21, 2025 – Cleveland, OH @ House of Blues Cleveland (approximately 225 miles from Rochester, a 3.5-hour drive). The intimate House of Blues will amplify the trio’s lyrical intensity, perfect for a road trip.

•  October 22, 2025 – Detroit, MI @ The Fillmore (approximately 300 miles from Rochester, a 4.5-hour drive). This stop at the historic Fillmore Detroit offers a high-energy night for fans up for a longer drive.

The Toronto show is the closest and most convenient for Rochester fans, though a valid passport is required for Canada.

What to Expect

The Dark Aura Tour promises a showcase of hip-hop’s lyrical core. Joey will likely perform tracks from Lonely at the Top alongside classics from 1999 and 2000. Ab-Soul, fresh off his 2022 album Herbert, brings philosophical depth, while Rapsody, a Grammy-winning lyricist, delivers poetic flows from works like Eve. This trio’s commitment to substance over flash makes the tour unmissable for hip-hop purists.

Ticket Information

Tickets are live via www.joeybadass.com or platforms like Ticketmaster. Tickets are expected to sell out fast, so Rochester fans should act quickly, especially for Toronto and Cleveland.

Why This Tour Matters

The Dark Aura Tour follows Joey’s struggles with label delays at Columbia Records, which pushed Lonely at the Top from its original August 1 release. His defiance shines in “Dark Aura,” produced by Chuck Strangers, with lines like, “Independent mindset, we ain’t f**kin’ with the majors.” Paired with Ab-Soul and Rapsody, this tour celebrates hip-hop’s authenticity. Rochester fans, grab tickets early for a night of raw lyricism—whether in Toronto, Cleveland, or Detroit. Follow @joeybadass on Instagram and X for updates.

August 23, 2025
JID, EARTHGANG WASHINGTON, DC (VIDEO)

November 13, 2017
AMINÉ TOUR FOR YOU AT HOWARD THEATRE (VIDEO)

October 31, 2017
Concert review: Chris Brown brings ‘One Hell of a Night’ tour to MidFlorida Credit Union Amphitheatre

Watching clips of Chris Brown dance on Instagram is one thing but seeing it live up close and personal is another. The 26-year-old singer-songwriter made his way to Tampa Friday night, when he brought his star studded “One Hell of a Tour” to a rainy MidFlorida Credit Union Amphitheatre where he hosted an ultra lit party featuring a vast amount of special guest.

Brown’s vocals are highly underrated and after a highly uptempo start to his set list 14,000 screaming Team Breezy fans got to experience the Virginia native’s diversity.

While at times it seemed as if Brown was holding back on stage and not giving it his all during the dancing choreography (based on performances I have watched of his at music awards) it still amazes me how he can out perform more than 90 percent of artist out touring.

Do to bad timing and failure to check my email in time, I missed the opening act sets from rappers Kid Ink, Fetty Wap and Omarion. Luckily, Brown invited Fetty Wap and Kid Ink back on stage to join him on stage during his set to perform alongside him and his “special guest” French Montana.

By the end of the night, Brown seemed to get lost in the mix just enjoying the vibe, as he and all the supporting acts shared the stage creating an ultra lit environment.

On top of improving his dancing and singing skills over the years, Brown had drastically enhanced ability to rhyme over beats, whether or not he is writing the verses himself. Closing the night out with French Montana’s new single “Moses,” alongside Atlanta rap group The Migos, you could sense the feeling that Brown was more excited to give his friends a large platform to showcase their skills rather than be greedy, hog the spotlight himself and use the tour as a way to prepare for an upcoming release of his own.

With all the things that he has been through in the past, and his current custody battle situation, it’s good to see that he has an outlet to help him take his mind off things. Even if it is only for One Hell of a Night.

September 5, 2015
Tamar Braxton brings TV to reality with ‘Love and War Tour’ (review)

LAKE BUENA VISTA ー What better way to end the week then with a packed grown and sexy party.

“We are at the BBQ right?” asked DJ Slym, host of the event, as he warmed up the House of Blues crowd Sunday night for the “Love and War Tour.”

DJ Slym, the official Dj for Orlando rapper Caskey, entertained the crowd for nearly 45-minutes before Tamar Braxton hit the stage. With an extensive Dj mix, that blended an array of old school jams with new class ratchet club bangers, he kept the mainly “25 and older” crowd dancing ー whether it be shuffling, the electric slide and of course twerking.

Mrs. Braxton would carry that energy right over into the first song of her performance. Following the curtain opening, the audience was welcomed by a choreographed dance session by the singers animated backing staff, to go along with a rotating video reel displaying highlights from the singer’s reality TV shows. The woman of the hour would be revealed as uptempo track “She Did That” would come to an end, and the screen would reach its back with her waiting patiently on it.

“What’s up Tamartian fans?” Braxton shouted during uptempo banger “The One,” of her Grammy Nominated album “Love and War,” before breaking into a “Single Ladies” like dance with female dancers to “Tip Toe.”

The youngest of the Braxton sisters told us earlier in the week that she only has one project in which she would perform songs off, so how would the flamboyant artist keep the crowd engaged and remain original was a big question for me going into the night.

Not three-songs into the set, Mrs. Braxton would answer that question. Her being herself was the best source of entertainment you could from the artist.

“You’re not going to like me for me, so I’m just going to be fabulous and you are just going to have to eat it,” stated the artist in one of her neck-rolling, wig-flinging, lip-smacking, in your face, over-the-top, keeping it “100” commentary sessions. Everything one would expect from a diva.

While the 37-year-old artist did not disappoint on the vocal side of the performance — and songs like “White Candle,” “Pieces” and “Stay and Fight” helped showed her range and draw great amount of applause from the audience — it was her presentation leading up to each song which really seem to connect with her Tamartian fans.

For a good session of the show, Mrs. Braxton sat on a bar stool and walked everyone through the story of how her and her husband,”Teddy Ruxpin,” got to where they are now, bringing WE tv’s “Tamar and Vince” to front stage. From teaching women how to get, keep and please a man; to encouraging everyone to follow their dreams; as well as a quick twerk lesson during “Hot Sugar,” Mrs. Braxton provided not only an entertaining musical experience but also life-changing advice.

Prior to getting into the Tamartian national anthem “Love and War,” Mrs Braxton would channel her inner “Yeezus,” in a long-winded speech where she would go on to thank thank acts John Legend and R. Kelly (who she has toured with in the past) for giving her the opportunity to shine. “They helped make my dreams come true! So tonight, on this stage, I’m going to make your dreams come true,” said the singer before she hand picked four Tamartians to help her close out the night.

From multiple outfit changes, “Chippendales”-esque strip tease during intermission, and outrageously witty commentary, Tamar Braxton’s first national headlining tour solidifies that the she is truly entertaining and what we see from her on TV is truly who she is. However, it does leave speculation on whether this tour is to promote Tamar’s other business endeavors or give “Love and War,” the album, one last push. Incorporating no live band, DJ, or backing singers to give the songs a new feel, the diva is relying solely on the things that got her to this point to succeed. And that’s her sass, amazing voice and willingness to say say what ever comes to her mind without holding back.

May 19, 2014
Outkast headlines Day 1 of Big Guava, for their only Florida show (review)

By OBK

It’s nothing to forget an artist horrendous performance that you witnessed from a live stream of another show three-weeks ago, when that artist comes to your backyard and kicks off the inaugural night of a new music festival the way they did.

Outkast took the main stage of the Big Guava Festival on Friday at the MidFlorida Amphitheater at the Florida State Fairgrounds in Tampa and wasted no time getting into popular jams, helping lighten up the soaked crowd who had been out in the rain all day.

The Atlanta duo’s 90 minute set list has been tweaked since it’s Coachella performance. On top of playing their mainstream pop-oriented dance tracks like “Roses” and “So Fresh, So Clean,” Outkast took the time to reward their hip-hop heads fan base.

“Y’all probably didn’t even know we rapped,” said quirky Andre 3000, before the group got into older material and gave the audience a brief Outkast history level. Mr. 3000 was dressed in a white wig and all black body suit, which read “F#CK 3000,” and had an oversized price tag dangling from the side of it that read “for sale” on one side, and “sold out” on the other.

Many people have been stating that the “Hey Ya!” singer does not have his heart in the right place for this tour and have been lacking effort, however by the way he attacked the stage during the groups opening songs ー “BOB,” “Gasoline Dreams,” “ATLiens” and “Skew it on the Bar-B,” which immediately got the crowd into a frenzy ー it was hard to even fathom that thought.

Following their performance of “Ms. Jackson,” each member got a brief time to display their solo career and stronger side: Big Boi, an in your face southern rapper who is not afraid to represent where he is from, and Mr. 3000, an unforgotten lyricist who loves to make the ladies happy.

Outkast would then dig into their crates following their solo sets, performing a good run of songs from their 1994 debut album “Southernplayalisticadillacmuzik.”

They would go on to end their first Florida show in over a decade with “The Whole World,” a good description of the wide cultural, ethnic and age variety of fans the group appeals to.

Highlight of the night came when Outkast paid homage to the hip-hop artist of the 90’s including the late Pimp C, of collective UGK who the group states were one of the first people to give them a chance and take them under their wing; before their performance of “International Players Anthem (I Choose You).”

Chicago rapper Vic Mensa had the lucky task of opening for Outkast ー sorta. While he was on a totally different stage, he was the only other true hip-hop act of the night; plus he was the last artist to perform before they went on.

The audience, composed of hip-hop heads and ravers, immediately vibed along with the Savemoney artist’s incredible energy. Mensa began to gain national attention following his appearance on Chance the Rapper’s (who will be performing on Sunday) “Cooca Butter Kisses.”

Mr. Mensa has an array of styles, however he is at his peak during songs like “Hollywood Los Angeles,” where he mixes soul and dares to be different.

One of Mensa finish songs was his new single “Down On My Luck.” While the song is a little different from what Mr. Mensa excels at, it is not a bad track for music. For an artist who has served time in a rock band and as a solo rap artist, it’s uncertain what route the artist will trying to lay a foundation with in the future.

May 2, 2014
Darius Rucker brings rock-star vibe to his country show (review)

ORLANDO — Every family has that one oddball uncle. The one no one truly understands because his current ventures come off as weird if you compare them to things of his background.

You know, the one who only comes around every so often, however when does he is always bearing gifts. The uncle that all the younger cousins wished was their permanent babysitter because he allows them to underage drink, as long as they don’t tell mom. The one who has people hating him for the same exact reasons everyone else loves him.

Former Hootie & the Blowfish frontman Darius Rucker was that uncle to Orlando, when he brought his “True Believers Tour” to the CFE Arena on Thursday.

During his one-hour and 45 minutes set, Mr. Rucker’s setlist featured some country, some covers where he crossover genres, and a ton of Hootie magic.

Mr. Rucker opened up his set with “Radio” and “Heartbreak Road,” two songs from his certified Gold album which he is currently out touring. With the vibe many of the songs created, he left many wondering: If Hootie & the Blowfish were to come out in the recent years, would they be able to find a home in the mainstream country music scene and climb the charts; as many of Mr. Rucker’s songs as a sol-artist contained ballads that wouldn’t have sounded weird if the rock group was to play them in the 90’. In fact, he introduced the Hootie and the Blowfish song “Let Her Cry” as “the first country song I ever wrote.”

Mr. Rucker was very casual and all about his business, dressed in blue jeans, a Nike ball cap and matching black shirt and vest. He was not one to talk much while onstage, however when he did it would always get a great response from the crowd. He showed support to UCF multiple times. At one point during the show, he displayed the school’s logo across his giant video screens, behind his massive amount of stage lights.

Aside from singer’s Corey Smith 30-minute opening set, and the Eli Young Band’s hour-long set, which contained all three of their smash hits “Even If It Breaks My Heart,” “Crazy Girl,” and “Drunk Last Night,” both acts would join Mr. Rucker on stage to perform Hank Williams, Jr.’s “Family Tradition.”

Mr. Rucker would his set with “Wagon Wheel,” a hit of his which has garnered him great success on the charts and at music award shows.

While Darius Rucker will always be known for his contributions to Hootie and the Blowfish, spending more than 25-years with the group, he has gone on to make a solo career for himself.

April 25, 2014