Professor Green headlines Musicalize at the O2 Indigo

The urban music showcase Musicalize took over the O2 Indigo this weekend, giving a platform to up-and-coming urban acts as well as some established ones. Musicalize have been running events for a few years now, offering music lovers the chance to network and socialise with those within the industry. 

Hackney-born Professor Green headlined the event with a professionalism to prove that he could well be the UK’s answer to Eminem. The crowd reacted favourably to his brand of hip hop, which often conveyed assured, meaningful lyrics over drum ‘n’ bass and dub-step. Green’s ever-growing confidence is impressive – spitting a capella to bare the complexity of his word play, unaccompanied by the gimmicks of some of those who came before.

Chipmunk also delighted the audience exuding the experience his fame over recent years has given him. His chart topping hits like Champion have made him a household name and he looked at home on the stage.

Former X Factor contestant Misha B brought some class to proceedings, reminding her fans of the reason they used to pick up the phone to vote for her on Britain’s most famous talent show. Her vocals were strong and powerful, and she radiated warmth towards the crowd that was sincere and heart-felt.

Before those main acts, a few too many grime artists were allowed too much time to parade around the stage with much bravado but not enough substance to register as relevant. Special guests were introduced and collaborators invaded the stage like the first day of a sale at Harrods, but with minimal value. Rapper Connor Harris attracted considerable female attention, but when he teamed up with acoustic guitarist Adam Moss it felt like a gimmick to cash in on the popularity of similar looking collaborations, such as Wretch 32 and Josh Kumra.

The early crowd was treated to the residency of DJ Melody, who kept proceedings ticking over whilst the promoters struggled to get the acts to keep to the timetable. The Musicalize competition winners RedNPink were first to take to the stage, bursting with energy and enough feistiness to evoke the ghosts of the girl-power movement. Their mash up of hip-hop, soul and punk rock proved to be the tonic that the event needed.

Overall, an entertaining night put on by the event organisers, proving that amongst the rubble there are some truly talented urban music stars from this generation.

Verdict: •••

Samuel Mensah

For further information about future Musicalize events, click here.