Last Thursday night up and coming Atlanta rapper, Father, came through Richmond to make an appearance at The Broadberry.
Last Thursday night up and coming Atlanta rapper, Father, came through Richmond to make an appearance at The Broadberry. Father headlined the show and was joined by some of his own AwfulReccords musicians as well as a few local acts.
Father’s style of rap is notoriously tongue in cheek so it was interesting to see what other artists would make an appearance.
Although Father has gained a lot of viral success online, I did not expect there to be a line at the door, especially since I arrived early. A cameraman panned down the line as people started entering the venue. Some threw up peace signs, some middle fingers, but all were excited for the show.
Once everyone had funneled inside, the music started almost immediately. There were about 6 artists to perform before Father even took stage. The Broadberry is equipped with a moderately sized stage, but packs a huge sound.
Deep resonant bass, rattling hi-hats, and percussive snares filled the venue making it clear that this was going to be a rap show.
First up was Evan Barlow from Richmond who had a very energetic performance. Barlow and hit hype man jumped around the stage kicking and shouting their lyrics. His style had a hint of punk and inspired a brief mosh-pit.
The next two acts were RVA locals 3-D and Tribe VA. 3-D had a more eclectic vibe with shout-outs to “rap heads” and old school styles. Tribe VA brought more hype with faster beats and a relentless flow. The latter group carried a political message too. (“Don’t shoot” and “Fuck the government”)
Another local artist, Ramsey, took the stage donning an American flag themed jacket. His set included more singing than rapping, but the crowed seemed to vibe with it. The singer/rapper made a point to mention appreciating the relationships you have and to “love your girl.”
More notable acts include Richmond’s own Dr. Millionaire and local favorite Nickelus F.
Dr. Millionaire took stage with a more laid back swagger but his flow was on point. None could doubt his cool confidence and modern style. His druggy beats and lyrics seemed to hit a chord with the crowd.
Nickelus F appeared after a quick freestyle, where he flexed his rapping skills but then dropped into his own songs. At this point the crowd was hype. The only people standing with their arms folded were event staff. It was clear Nickelus F’s powerful delivery and heavy beats got the crowd going. The show had been going on for a while now, it was late but the energy was still high.
At last Father takes the stage wearing socks and sandals(?) It’s not something you’d expect a rapper to wear but hey, whatever is comfortable right? He bounced around his set playing some of his viral hits. The song “Nokia” ignited the crowd with people jumping around to “Flip phone Nokia / Flip phone Nokia.”
Father really engaged with the crowd and spent much of his set crouched down, basically eye level with the people in the front row. At a larger venue it might have been hard to see, but here it was very entertaining to see him so close to the audience. It was especially hilarious to watch him pointing out to people with line like “Who gonna get fucked first?”
After songs like “Young Hot Ebony” and “Nokia” Father closed the show and even mentioned that he is dropping new music soon.
Overall, the Broadberry was hype and the energy stayed strong through most of the show despite there being so many acts. If you like Father’s playful, raunchy style make sure to be on the look out for when he comes into town next.
Also check out The Broadberry’s line-up for more upcoming shows.
