“I’ve played in Toronto 11 times but this is my first time playing in the 6ix”

Classified with Son Real

Phoenix Nightclub

Toronto

February 13th, 2016

Fitting that with Canadian Hip Hop icon Drake serving as the 6ix ambassador for Toronto’s first NBA All Star game; one of Canada’s 1st major Hip Hop stars, Classified, was also in town with his fans braving Saturday’s sub zero temperatures to pack the Phoenix nightclub.

Declaring “I’ve played in Toronto 11 times but this is my first time playing in the 6ix”, Classified and his backing band tore through a high energy, fun and even set of material new and old.  Touring in support of the recently released “Grateful” (Halflife Records/Universal Music Canada), Classified still knows how to work a crowd (especially during ‘Higher’).

We’re big fans of live hip hop backing bands – because you just can’t beat that level of talent and interaction.   Classified sure loves his family with one brother serving as co-MC and another brother playing guitar along with a bass player, drummer and DJ.

Opening the show, and representing the West Coast hip hop scene was SonReal.   To be honest this set was really uneven and wasn’t doing much for us until SonReal played a brand new track off his upcoming album as it’s monster.   With it’s crossover appeal we expect that SonReal could have one of the biggest tracks of 2016.    Add a live band to his set and SonReal could have one hell of a show.   Getting to see Classified perform each night of this tour will likely elevate his game to get where he needs to be.

One of the best moments of Classified’s set was the old school hip hop medley.   No doubt this guy grew up on the best, and he and his band blew the crowd away with their choice of material.     (2nd best moment – Nintendo Power Gloves).

A solid set of all star hook heavy hip hop to make you jump around during a frigid All Star weekend.

We rate this one a solid 5 out of 6ix.