While summer’s nearly over for those trudging back to campus, it’s still kicking in the heart of the Midwest. It’s time to prepare for North Coast.
In hindsight, Lollapalooza offered its own cultural moments in both the style and music departments: Chance and Vic reunited, Big Sean premiered a new Travis Scott collab and hyped streetwear ‘fits were en cameo no matter the set’s genre.
Fast forward about a month and I’m ready for North Coast.
Here’s the sets you shouldn’t miss:
Friday
Gucci Mane
Everyone knows and appreciates Gucci Mane’s ability to hit the ground running as soon as his bid was over. With this in mind, it’s no wonder why the Met Gala artist is at the top of the no-miss list.
London on da Track
“We got London on da Track” needs no further explanation. In the meantime, watch London on da Track re-make Drake and 21 Savage’s Sneakin.
Akenya
Akenya’s a funky spitter with a sound incomparable to anyone on today’s hip-hop landscape. The Chicago native was deemed a sonic nomad by the Chicago Tribune – I think they got that part right. Her sound is experimental and melodic, with an obvious jazz influence attributed by Akenya’s studies in jazz at the Chicago Academy for the Performing Arts. Check out her single Disappear and prepare for a performance at North Coast.
Saturday
Damian ‘Jr. Gong’ Marley
Another headliner on North Coast’s lineup, Damian Marley is a must-see on Saturday. With the release of his first album in 12 years, Stony Hill is sure to be a sight to see in-person. Not to mention the JAY-Z single (BAM) highlighting the beauty and hustle of Jamaican culture. No better collaboration than the youngest son of the Jamaican legend, Bob Marley.
Big Boi
Andre is, personally, the better half of Outkast; however, Big Boi continues to hold his own with hits. Let’s hope the show is sprinkled with Outkast classics. [Side note: if you missed Outkast at Lollapalooza two years ago, watch the show here.]
Post Malone
The Bieber opener was was an “okay” live performance – what I love most about Malone’s presence is his unwavering positive energy. It’s also impossible to ignore his festival-ready tracks that will undoubtedly provide for a decent summer show.
A Tribe Called Red
A Tribe Called Red is an electronic/hip-hop/reggae trio with roots in Native American and tribal preservation activism. The group notes a track with hip-hop legend Yasiin Bey, formerly Mos Def, and regularly portray visuals in appreciation of Native American culture.
Sunday
Skepta
Hailing from North London and representing for the grime scene, Skepta is a must see for anyone prepared to mosh the summer away. If you’re unfamiliar with the movement, check out Skepta’s Noisey documentary debut below. The documentary follows Skepta through his first North American tour and features notable tracks to prepare your palate for a true grime show.
The Cool Kids
Join me in welcoming back the Cool Kids! Any kid who grew up on hip-hop can remember the first time they heard Black Mags – including the millions of freestyles and remixes. These were the original trend setters in Chicago culture – influencing street style at every turn.
DJ Rude One
DJ Rude One is a hip-hop producer and beat-maker hailing from the Windy City. His most recent project, ONEderful, featured rhymes from Roc Marciano, Your Old Droog and Mr Muthafuckin eXquire.
Soul Culture 