Rapper G-Eazy doesn’t let you forget he’s from California’s Bay Area, but performing at the Baton Rouge River Center for his “When it’s Dark Out Tour,” he felt right at home.
Following his two weekend-stint at Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival, you’d think the artist would be tired arriving in the Red Stick on April 26. But, it was quite the contrary. After his two openers, Marty Grimes and Nef the Pharaoh, hyped up the crowd, G-Eazy came out in head-to-toe black ready to party.
The singer told the crowd he was happy to be back in Louisiana, a place he called home for six years. G-Eazy remembered the time he lived in New Orleans, recording songs and performing at much smaller venues than the River Center. He thanked the crowd for standing by him and making him feel at home every time he plays a Louisiana show.
An artist who has flown under the radar for so long and then hit quick mainstream fame with “Me, Myself & I” featuring Bebe Rexha, fans are always right to worry if who they knew will not be who comes out on stage. But, “Young Gerald” made sure to remember where he came from.
The show’s theme gave off the idea that if you keep working, you’ll get to where you want to be. G-Eazy remembered he’d be nothing without his fans from earlier albums and shows. The setlist was full of favorites like “Lady Killers,” “Tumblr Girls” and “Let’s Get Lost.”
From “When it’s Dark Out,” G-Eazy played “Order More,” “Drifting” and “Calm Down,” among others.
Watching the rapper dance, jump and strut across stage is slightly mesmerizing. In his ripped black jeans, graphic tees, leather jacket and fly sneakers it’s undeniable it’s hard to take your eyes off him.
If his songs don’t take you, his strong jawline and ladies’ man persona will.
This was obvious with the amount of screams omitted from the crowd. One fan threw her bra to the artist during his performance of “Tumblr Girls,” landing right on the microphone stand. G-Eazy gave his classic smirk/smile to the crowd and continued crooning.
The rapper stayed energetic throughout the show, going from edge to edge and even to the top floor of his mock city street set. The set was interactive with a moving billboard, working doors and even a woman dancing in a window.
His combination of DJ and drummer on each side of the stage made the sound full, matching his effortless raps.
It’s obvious “Young Gerald” loves his fans and wants the music to connect them. After finishing on “Me, Myself & I,” he reappeared for a two song encore, “You Got Me” and “I Mean It.”
While the rapper is still on rising fame, he should, and most likely will, be more recognized. As long as he continues to remember where he came from and producing solid tracks, I don’t see him stopping any time soon.