During the Spring of 2011, Coors Light hosted the Coldest Artist, a competition where they were looking for new, raw talent. The winners of the West and Midwest competitions were able to meet and perform in Baltimore; they also served as the pre-show to one of hip-hop’s greatest musical acts, N.E.R.D.
The first performer, Billa Camp, hails from Chicago. Billa has a nice flow and is a great lyricist. He’s a combination of Kanye West, Lupe Fiasco, and Lil’ Wayne. If these three artists were to ever think about collaborating, they only need to research this rapper to see how it will turn out, and they would be pleased. None of the 3 songs he performed were dance tunes, but they will easily be club tunes that you would hear on the radio.
Seattle, WA native Joe Ed from Eclectic Approach performed two songs. The first song, “Brother”, was dedicated to his brother, and he chose Sonar as the venue to perform this song for the first time. The song deals with substance abuse and how one’s addication not only affects that person, but also their loved ones. “Cool”, the song that brought him into the competition, was very rock and is reminiscent of Maroon 5. The great thing about this song is that it highlights the uniqueness of Joe Ed.
Pac Div is a hip-hop trio from Los Angeles, and they are opening for N.E.R.D. on their summer tour. All three members are hype men and feed off of each other’s energy while performing. The great thing is that they were able to keep the audience engaged the entire time they were onstage. This group will definitely go far in the music industry.
The main event for the evening, N.E.R.D., did not disappoint. Performing old and new songs, Pharrell was stunned into silence once when he began performing and the audience sang along with him. Chad was very laid back, as usual, but frontman Pharrell Williams had enough energy for them both. Shay Haley was able to hold his own against Pharell. The members of N.E.R.D. are able to feed off of each others’ strengths during their live performances and allow each man to have his light. And live instrumentation is always appreciated during shows. The audience sang along to almost every track and probably surprised themselves with how many songs they knew.
Coors Light has created a great event with the Coldest Artist Live Shows. They are to be commended for putting together a great show with artists who are creative, unique, and are able to appeal to the masses. Thanks to Gypsy Soul & Soulcial Grind PR for allowing your fave Southern Girl to attend. Until next time, I’m just a Southern girl…in the city!
*To see all photos taken at the event, go here.*
Southern Girl in the City 