Roger Kisby, Getty Images
There was a British invasion on the opening day of Lollapalooza in Chicago on Friday, headlined by Muse and Coldplay and featuring a killer set from UK MC Tinie Tempah. As the sun went down over Millennium Park, young people not even yet born when the festival launched 20 years ago rushed the new Google+ stage to witness the 22-year-old rapper bring his Mercury Prize-nominated debut 'Disc-overy' to life.
It was clear Tempah was here for a takeover: T-shirts and other swag rained down constantly over the crowd as he launched into 'Love Suicide,' a track he reminded us was included exclusively on the US version of the record. He did the same with the hit 'Till I'm Gone,' apologizing that his tall friend Wiz Khalifa could not appear. None of his notable guests showed up, actually, but despite using pre-recorded tracks to incorporate their vocals, the set was very much alive, thanks to a crack five-piece band that included drums, bass and acoustic guitar.
Unlike during his Coachella set last spring, where he goofed up his shout-out to the "Palm Springs" crowd, admitting he was "new at this," here Tempah was large and in charge, a gracious host who praised the audience for being the best clappers ever (then, later, the best American audience ever). By the time he had everyone get low to the ground then spring into action for 'Miami to Ibiza,' the throng exploded with enthusiasm and energy and much love. Clearly, Tinie Tempah's landing on US soil is solid.
Tinie Tempah Performs 'Till I'm Gone'
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