On October 11th, Joyner Lucas stopped by Downtown Los Angeles for a packed show at The Belasco. The Grammy-nominated singer was there to promote his debut album, ADHD, which dropped at the start of COVID in March 2020. The record was released independently by Lucas and managed to reach the top-ten on the Billboard 200. It was supported by numerous hits, including the Logic-assisted “Isis”, which went platinum.
The Worcester-born rapper rose to prominence after signing with Atlantic Records and releasing a slew of viral hits including “I’m Not Racist” and “Stranger Things”, the latter being a collaboration with Chris Brown. Since his rise to stardom, Lucas has become well-known for his support of smaller artists. Lucas launched a music app named Tully and has used it to allow young rappers to perform as openers for his shows. The concert started with a number of DJs and multiple opening acts – ranging from well-known hitmakers to local artists just starting out.
After a lively set by Bay Area rapper Symba, the venue went dark and a comedic short film began playing. The film features Lucas as a convenience store robber getting scolded by the clerk. After he shoots both her and his partner in the video, the venue goes dark again and Lucas comes on stage, covered in fake blood. He starts with the opening verse of his song “Ramen and OJ” while being surrounded by screaming fans.
During the show Lucas performs some of his greatest radio hits alongside fan favorites, including the Young Thug-assisted “The War” and the emotional title track from his album. Halfway through his set, Lucas brings out Ty Dolla $ign to perform their single “Late to the Party” and the crowd erupts in applause again as they perform. Throughout his show, Lucas maintains high energy and keeps the audience moving on their feet.
He undergoes both frequent costume changes and thematic shifts, tackling a number of topics in mini speeches between his songs. Lucas touches on his adolescence, including bullying and low self esteem before diving into his thoughts on the Will Smith-Oscars controversy.
At the end of an energetic set, Lucas opens up about how he felt that he needed to tour the record so he could share the songs with his fans, citing delays of the tour being due to COVID. Towards the final moments, Lucas announces the title of his new record, Can’t Talk, I’m Busy.
