By Bertram Keller
Hip Hop artist, 24 Hrs stopped by The Roxy Theatre on Friday, August 23, and Twenty surely did not disappoint his audience. The Atlanta based rap artist put on an intimate performance while being accompanied with special guests; such as, Niko G4, IAMSU!, Casey Veggies, Kyle, MadeinTYO, PNB Rock, Hit-Boy, Dom Kennedy and many more. Nonetheless, don’t confuse Twenty with all the hype. The 28-year-old rapper has showcased his versatility creating hit songs like “What You Like” featuring Ty Dolla Sign and Wiz Khalifa, or being featured on acclaimed electronica producer RL Grime’s song “UCLA.”
At the start of the show, Twenty makes his way through clashes of people backstage; finally, composing himself front stage. The crowd almost immediately draws in closer with anticipation. Spectators reach out to touch him; in a way, thanking Twenty for the energy that is infused through unique sound. Dedicated fans stand and watch for his next move; ready to rage and reciprocate all the energy that fills the room. Still, how will Twenty start the show?
Twenty spent much of his career creating his sound in Atlanta; though, he is originally from the bay area (Oakland, Ca). Formerly known as Royce Rizzy, Twenty jumped from American rapper, Lil Scrappy’s record label G’s Up to record executive, Jermaine Dupri’s record label So So Def Recordings. With his rich history of working with the top minds in Hip Hop, it is no coincidence that Twenty has developed the lyrical prose to work with a variety of artists. From his early years, Twenty has evolved from raspy street raps to melodic high octave singing, which became an accepted surprise for those who follow the young artist’s career.
Twenty starts his set telling production to “Cut off the lights,” initiating fans to further surrender to the intimacy of the moment. The overflow of energy spills over, in which commands the audience to forget personal troubles and become aware of the present moment in time. This exchange of unity from Hip Hop fans and fellow artists is a beautiful thing to witness. Today’s Hip Hop artists are frequently uniting through music, in which it ratifies creators to learn and evolve much faster. Whether they’re evolving through their music or their individuality of appearance, this particular climate of Hip Hop further generates its popularity from accepting supporters as individuals.
Twenty recently signed a partnership deal with Rostrum Records in late April, concurrently releasing his club record, “Back Out” featuring Ty Dolla Sign and Dom Kennedy. Twenty’s melodic vocals, with Ty Dolla Sign’s flawless harmonies, followed by Dom Kennedy’s fueled lyrical arrangement make for a great summertime song for listeners to enjoy. The “Back Out” music video also shows a cameo from comedian, Anthony Anderson as a homeowner in apprehension of Twenty throwing an outrageous party.
The Roxy acted as a harbor so to speak, collecting and cascading wavy sounds from the mind of Twenty and friends; thus, making it a most memorable night for fans! In support, fans gathered with the foresight of surprise performances and witness the creative energy felt through sound waves.
This article originally appeared in The Los Angeles Sentinel.
