The (free) tickets sold out in minutes. The rumours about secret special guests were rife; but did Anderson .Paak‘s show at south London’s O2 Academy Brixton live up to the hype? Absolutely. Here’s everything that went on his Dr. Dre presents show last night (March 13).
One night only
With O2 Academy Brixton’s hallowed stage surrounded by a huge mouth (gold tooth and all), and anticipation rising, Anderson .Paak bounded onto stage in a tiger-print tracksuit, before launching into fan favourite (and categorical banger) ‘Come Down’.
The doctor’s seal of approval
Only one song in, he was joined by his mentor, Dr. Dre, for a special performance of ‘Still D.R.E.’ and ‘The Next Episode’. The legendary producer, rapper and founder of Beats is in town for the London premiere of documentary The Defiant Ones, and took the time to drop by the O2 Academy Brixton. Dre heaped praise on Anderson whilst on stage, telling the army of fans: “This man here is destined to be a superstar.”
Glowed Up
Blitzing through a 14-song set, Dre’s protégé barely paused for breath. Highlights came in the form of his slinky Kaytranada collaboration ‘Glowed Up’ and the sultry ‘The Season / Carry Me’.
Drummer boy
Not content with just being a master behind the mic, Paak spent the show hopping behind the drum kit, to show off his mad percussion skills.
New music’s coming
Punters came away with the promise of new music, with Anderson revealing that the next album would be coming soon, and it’s gunna be “fire”.
The Free Nationals
The musical extraordinaire was joined on stage by his excellent band, The Free Nationals. With their blend of neo soul and R&B, the show brought some much needed California sunshine to a grey London evening.
Dang! he’s good
As he blasted through a slick set of his own stone cold hits, the crowd were also treated to a rendition of Anderson’s collaboration with Mac Miller, ‘Dang!’.
Our heart didn’t stand a chance
By the end, Paak was swaggering across the Brixton stage, totally at ease with the 5,000 people roaring ‘Heart Don’t Stand a Chance’ back at him.
He’ll be back
Rounding off his sweltering 60 minute set with ‘Am I Wrong’ and ‘Lite Weight’, before he left the stage Anderson .Paak made sure to let us know: “I will be back…I promise you that.”
