It was a “Real” extravaganza at The Forum on Saturday (Nov. 5), where L.A. radio station Real 92.3 held their annual concert, a surprise-filled, star-studded spectacle for hip-hop and R&B fans alike, with performances from Usher, Bryson Tiller, Chance the Rapper, Ty Dolla $ign, and more.
Backed by impressive lights, a live band, and acrobatic dancers, Usher was the night’s headlining act. After performing classics like “Caught Up” and “U Don’t Have to Call,” Mr. Raymond called on his first special guest, Chris Brown.
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Together, the dynamic singing and dancing duo performed “New Flame” — even getting into a small friendly dance battle — before Breezy (literally) launched into a solo rendition of “Ayo.” Then, Master P came out to “Make ‘Em Say Uhh!” as a lead-in to Ur-sher’s “No Limit.”
This was indicative of the night’s M.O. Earlier, Ty Dolla $ign brought out YG, Cam’ron, Juelz Santana, Wiz Khalifa, and Taylor Gang for a cameo-filled celebration. Before that, Big Sean joined Bryson Tiller for one of the evening’s most electric sets, which included his new single “Bounce Back.”
Surprises are becoming a staple of “The Real Show.” Last year, the radio festival shocked fans with an unannounced Drake appearance. This year, it seemed like a surprise was around every corner.
A not-so-pleasant surprise came during Chance the Rapper’s set. The Chicago spitter abruptly cut his performance short due to a reported scuffle near the front of the stage, leaving fans puzzled, concerned, and saddened.
Kehlani also surprised some fans who were unaware of the singer’s absence. The Oakland songstress was on the bill, but unable to perform due to her illness. “I have Pneumonia,” she recently tweeted. “Bed ridden for idk how long.. love u guys… pray.”
Still, the show went on. Others who wowed fans during the night included Belly, Kap G, Tory Lanez, Kid Ink, and Desiigner. Each artist delivered a string of hits for the Inglewood crowd that had many singing and dancing in the aisles until the curtains closed.
–Andres Tardio