The history of rap will go down with the mention of certain individuals, eras, but most importantly albums that defined what the genre was all about. Released in 1998 Mos Def and Talib Kweli Are Black Star defined a movement for one of the most influential hip hop albums of all time. The album played heavy on the political and conscious stigmas that were present in the late 90's. Unfortunately it was the only album the duo would ever come out with. Both Mos Def and Talib Kweli went on to enjoy commercial success as individuals spanning an array of solo projects and leaving the door open for another album (which coincidentally was announced by Yasiin Bey/Mos Def later on that evening at a Madlib show across town). For many in attendance it was an opportunity to listen to two of the greatest lyrical emcees go back and forth playing out the tracklist from one of the greatest hip hop albums of all time. We will ever get to see Black Star come through town again, I would think so especially if a new album is on the way. The 8th Light was definitely shining bright on Saturday night, we hope it never dims.
Gramatik with Talib Kweli | The Fillmore | November 17th
There is something to be said about the electronic-dance music scene in Colorado. It seems that every artist that rolls through our great state brings a huge crowd for the ever-growing genre. Friday night at the Fillmore Auditorium, played hosts to two genres in particular, hip hop and EDM. Gramatik held it down as the headliner, choosing Denver to beta his new elaborate stage setup dubbed “The Coil”. Straight out of a mad scientist lab, the stage production gave off a high voltage spectacle with waves of low current and lighting-enhanced discharge to compliment his music.
In true Gramatik form he came out hard and fast and maintained that momentum throughout his set. It wasn’t until he stopped three quarters in to give homage to our great state and our recent passing of Amendment 64, legalizing marijuana. “It’s time for a smoke break” as he lit up. The crowd erupted and many joined in as the words Amendment 64 highlighted the stage.
The night’s other performance was none other than Talib Kweli. Kweli has always been a huge favorite in Colorado, often playing here 3-4 times a year. With a loyal fan base, he hit us with his signature East Coast rap style that has earned him merit all across the hip hop community. With fan-friendly hits, he warmed up the crowd with his legendary verse on Kanye’s “Get Em High”.
However, the epic climax of his set was during his best known song “Get By,” which had all the hip hop heads in the audience singing word for word. Not a bad night for Denver; with music at its finest and two of the best ambassadors in their own respected genres. Check out more photos here.
4th Annual White Wednesday (November 23rd) feat. Talib Kweli: BETA Nightclub
WhatsGoodCOTalib Kweli
WhatsGoodCO is excited to bring Denver their “White Wednesday” event for the fourth year running! White Wednesday (WW) is the celebratory kick off to Thanksgiving Day weekend. Why did we call it White Wednesday? It’s the Wednesday before Thanksgiving and the opposite of Black Friday. White Wednesday is held every year on the Eve of Thanksgiving. With a long weekend, no work, and the holidays in full swing it’s the perfect time to go out and celebrate. The event is held on Wednesday, November 23rd every year. The last three WW’s have boasted a huge turnout of party-goers ready to celebrate and bring in the holiday season! This year’s event is prepared for another massive turnout, with the event being held at the expansive Beta Nightclub and a LIVE performance by Talib Kweli, White Wednesday will be the place to be Thanksgiving Eve! **Stay tuned for surprise artist announcements!
Get Your Tickets Here:
Enter Code: ultra5280 for your special discount!!!
***See Talib Kweli on the “Colbert Report” filmed in early October (10/5):
http://www.colbertnation.com/full-episodes/wed-october-5-2011-black-star
To Listen to Talib Kweli’s music visit his myspace or fan page here:
http://www.facebook.com/talibkweli
http://www.myspace.com/talibkweli/music/albums#!/talibkweli