IHeartMedia presented an exclusive performance with T.I. Live on the Honda Stage on October 23. The intimate event will also included a Q&A discussing the making of his new album Paperwork.
He released his first studio album entitled, “I’m Serious” in 2001. Now 13 years later, it’s the rapper’s charming yet gangster side that has garnered his biggest success.
The bass heavy sounds of “Bring Em Out” blared through the speakers of the Honda Stage as T.I. warmed up the crowd. Long time friend and veteran radio DJ, Angie Martinez was the host for the night; asking the rapper interesting questions so the fans in the audience and those watching via live stream could get to know T.I. better.
When asked if he feels uncomfortable at all on stage he stated at this in his career it’s second nature, “It’s more like a habitat.” He also stated that it’s a transference of energy when the crowd is dancing and waving their hands because it gets him going.
T.I. performed various hits such as “About The Money,” “The King,” and title track “Paperwork” in which he said “It’s the story he knows best, the story of his life.” A fan in the crowd yelled out “Welcome to LA” and T.I. jokingly replied back “Thanks but I’ve been here quite a while now.”
Before performing “No Mediocre,” Angie Martinez let everyone know that T.I. was one of the first to spot the super star talent in Iggy Azalea and signed her to his label, Grand Hustle, in 2012. Although he loved having Iggy on the track, T.I. stated one of his dream collaborations would be with Stevie Wonder or Outkast. “This is what we dreamed of doing all these days of our lives. Now that we’re here, we’re gonna make sure that we justify the dream.”
Pharrell Williams played a major role in executive producing “Paperwork.” “It’s never a boring session with Pharrell.” T.I. joked that he wanted to manage the career of the now famous hat Pharrell has been seen in since the Grammys. Angie Martinez replied “and get 10 percent of the hat,” in which T.I. joked “No, 15.”
Before the night was over, T.I. performed other hits that many have forgotten about in his 10 year plus career: “Rubberband Man,” “Top Back,” “U Don’t Know Me,” and “24’s.”
Die hard fans who have known about T.I. since, “Trap Muzik,” recited lyric after lyric while new generation fans really got excited for hits like: “Why You Wanna,” “Live Your Life,” and the extremely catchy “Whatever You Like.”
As T.I. left the stage, he yelled out “I’m the King b***h!”
After baring witness to his performance, I completely agree. His new album, “Paperwork,” is out now. Go Get It!
-Hakeem Animashaun
