Concert Review: Schoolboy Q at Brooklyn Paramount
There are a select few rappers who define a particular scene in hip-hop, and Los Angeles rapper Schoolboy Q is undeniably one of them. His storytelling prowess combined with atmospheric production has cemented him as a defining voice in the West Coast hip-hop scene of the 2010s.
Celebrating “Blank Face LP”
His 2016 album, Blank Face LP, is often regarded as one of his best works and established Q as a leading figure in hip-hop. To mark the 10th anniversary of this album, Q embarked on a tour that allows fans to relive the magic of 2016. I had the opportunity to attend the sold-out show this past Saturday at Brooklyn Paramount in Brooklyn, NY.
Opening Act: TF
Opening for Q was West Coast rapper TF, whose name curiously wasn’t included in the main billing. While his performance was solid, nothing stood out too much—except for his rendition of “The Scorpion Sting,” which was a highlight.
As TF exited the stage, the overhead playlist began filling the venue with hip-hop hits like “tv off” by Kendrick Lamar and “Solo” by Future, tapping into a wave of nostalgia reminiscent of my college days.
Schoolboy Q Takes the Stage
When Q finally took the stage and launched into “TorcH,” the crowd erupted. This was an apt start, being the first track off Blank Face LP. Q’s passion was palpable as he remarked that the album “should’ve won 3 fucking Grammys.”
The crowd went wild as he performed “THat Part,” with the mosh pit coming alive. Although it felt a bit strange to hear the Ye feature in the song, the energy was electric.
Nostalgic Hits and New Music
Hearing “Kno Ya Wrong” was a nostalgic blast, especially during the Lance Skiiiwalker feature. I found myself wishing Lance could have joined Q on stage. Highlighting the 10 Years of Blank Face LP Tour, Q also performed tracks from his other albums, including “Yeern 101” from Blue Lips and “Numb Numb Juice” from CrasH Talk. He teased a new album on the way, though details were scarce. If it’s anything like Blank Face LP, I’m definitely hyped.
The show reached a peak for me when Q performed “Collard Greens.” The crowd danced along to this spacey, melodic track, and Q’s visible excitement enhanced the experience. Everyone was respectful, leaving just enough space for individuality within the mosh pit.
A Special Touch
To wrap up the night, Q invited TF back on stage to perform “Tookie Knows II,” a fitting conclusion as it’s the final track on the album.
Final Thoughts
If I had one critique, it would be that the show felt a bit short. I was left wanting more, especially since there was no encore. It was surprising that Q didn’t perform the entirety of Blank Face LP. Not hearing “Str8 Ballin'” was jarring, and skipping “Man of the Year,” one of his biggest hits, felt odd.
Despite this, the concert was solid overall, and I would recommend catching Q live at least once. It’s an experience worth having.
