Mikkey Halstedis coming with new music in late June in the form of Bulletproof Dreams and he kicks off the previews with a lyrical cut in the background of episode 1 of his new Day In The Life series. The video follows him around prior to, and during, his sold-out show at The Shrine with Don Cannon(my review/photos here). One of the most intriguing parts is his analysis of the Chicago police's strategy about curtailing gang violence. I don't have the type of knowledge about what Mikkey's talking about specifically, but I was nodding my head in agreement at what he was saying. Would love to hear more gems like this in future episodes. Dope camera work by Veluxe ensures some entertaining visuals so give this a press of the play button above!
Moments after Mikkey Halsted left the stage at The Shrine, I was able to tell him personally, "It's refreshing to hear such a lyrical live show." I wasn't the only one who got a chance to show love; Mikkey ended his set, and the night altogether at The Shrine, by jumping down to the crowd and personally greeting his loyal fans, fellow artists, and family in attendance. So I'm sure I was one of many who thanked Mikkey for putting on such a great show... one that stressed the lyrics — the straight up core of rap.
Mikkey performed a mix of throwback jams with new joints off the upcoming project,Bulletproof Dreams, in a seamless, flowing succession with transitions courtesy of DJ Don Cannon. But at the drop of a dime, Mikkey would rewind — stop the track altogether, and emphasize the words and verses he just spit, often receiting them again in a passionate a capella. This engaged fans even more as everyone was at the south loop club to hear Mr. Halsted's words jump to life. And again, it wasn't merely fans, but also his family (which fueled more emotion and heartfelt appreciation from Mikkey) and Chicago artists watching from YP, Tree, the Save Money Crew (who set Halsted up nicely as openers) to Treated Crew members like Mano and Mic Terror, to Don C who was also in attendance. Amazing to see yet another example of strong, Chicago unity!
Where this show stood out compared to the many hip hop shows I've attended for Gowhere is where I started this review — Mikkey delivered a "live, lyrical show". It truly is refreshing to see such emphasis on the words in a concert experience that's often drowned out by a booming bass or entourage on stage. Last Friday, it was just Mikkey and a mic... and that's all that was needed for a great show.
Tonight's a busy night in the Chi and we'll be out and about — first at UIC for the 2nd annual Primo Dance Troupe Showcase. All proceeds go to Saturday Place so bring your dancing shoes and enjoy what's sure to be amazing, choreographed performances, and also say hi to us at our table and get some FREE giveaways!
We're also sponsoring Mikkey Halsted's headlining show at The Shrine with Don Cannon and a series of dope Chicago openers including Tree, the Save Money Crew, and newly added: YP. You'll see #TeamGowhere up there tonight as well!
Follow us on Instagram where we'll be posting pictures of our fun night out — we'll also be at Chance The Rapper's private Acid Raps listening party in between so lots going on today!
Yes, indeed. Turns out the former forward has a new R&B album out now titled, Unbreakable. It boasts features from Ace Hood, King Los, and Chicago's own Mikkey Halsted on this upbeat track titled "Take It Out On Me".
Nice efforts from both parties as this one is pretty catchy. And yes, I'll be checking out the album now. Walter McCarty? How bout that?!
Good to see young MD's Logic join forces with the hometown vet Mikkey Halsted. This break-neck freestyle will be off Don Cannon's upcoming mixtape, Steps Back Radio.
Fast flows, clever rhymes, and a freestyle you can rock with on first listen. *Tibs Fav. status, easy.
