Hip Hop Inauguration-Naughty by Nature + MOP – Opening Acts

January 20, 2009 was a historical day for every one in America, but it seemed to be a bigger one in hip-hop culture. Not only the day Barack Obama was sworn in as President of the United States it was a symbol that change is truly within reach and more importantly that any thing is possible. Though Barack won, the bigger winner seemed to be hip-hop culture apparently because though not a fact but hip hop society has made a very big impact on how the elections have panned out. And from this intimate concert at the BB Kings that seemed to be a reoccurring theme as the celebrations began. Every one was chanting “Barack Obama,” and giving their individual speeches about how this is as beautiful thing, which it is don’t get me wrong, but I honestly I wanted celebrate his victory and not hear about it. I wanted a concert.

The celebration kicked off with some opening acts: a Cleveland, OH rapper and a rap/singer duo from Brooklyn. I must say the rapper from Cleveland was gaining more and more attention from the crowd with each song but it wasn’t the case for the duo that came up second. Even though they did a song over the Lady Gaga joint, “Just Dance,” it wasn’t happening for them. Either way it wasn’t about them any way, like I said they were just opening acts, on to the heavy hitters.

Naughty by Nature came on and hit the stage with bangers right out the gate. Their typical high energy inspired the awkardly quiet crowd thus giving them a reason to step on the dance floor and party. Vin Rock and Treach were in deed the 1-2 punch that took the intimate gathering to the next level. As they brought the crowd back to early 90’s with tracks like “O.P.P” to “Hip Hop Hooray, ” also giving us a taste of some new stuff. “You can put this on your Youtube, Myspace. We don’t give a shiiiit,” as Treach said, which probably will drop later this year. As they departed the stage Vin Rock eagerly says “look out for Naughty bringing the same nature of music this year, ya’ll.” Good closer Vin, eyes wide open!

MOP had next. And when they say rappers roll with an entourage, MOP added to that stigma, more body guarded up than Barack. They must of hit the 10 X 12 (not accurate, obliviously) stage with like 50 guys and a few ladies. A bit out of control but they managed to perform and maneuver as if they were the only two on stage. Not a MOP fanatic myself but for those who were, they seemed to of enjoyed the duo as they attempted to salvage any energy from the slowly dwindling crowd. The mood was starting to go down and before I knew it people were starting to make their way out the door as I was too. I came, I celebrated, I rocked out but sorry MOP it was time to go. No hard feelings.


DF