Rihanna x Nokia @ Brixton Academy [Pictures]

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Tonight (Nov 16th), what seemed like the entire British music industry descended onto Brixton to attend Rihanna’s one-off ‘secret’ gig. The Brixton Academy was packed out with lucky fans who won (or hustled) tickets and VIP’s (you know how we roll) – it was an entirely free concert.

While not a lengthy affair, Rihanna did her damn thing. She looked incredible and performed new material off her latest album Rated R. Opening with the album’s intro “Madhouse”, she went straight into “Wait Is Ova”, and then into “Russian Roulette”. Surrounded by mannequins and broken TV’s, the pop stars comeback was in full swing.

Young Jeezy joined Rihanna on stage while she performed “Hard” – that track is too serious. Yeezy’s appearance definitely pleased the crowd (I have dope footage, but no access to it at the moment. Will do in the AM I hope!). Ri-Ri also delved into her back catalogue singing “Take A Bow” (which now, has a whole different meaning), “Disturbia” and “Please Don’t Stop the Music”.

Hova then rolled up on stage for a performance of his number 1 collaborative hit “Run This Town”. I don’t need to tell you what happened in the crowd. Ha. It was crazy. It was a moment. (Again, I have crazy footage, but not til’ the AM).  After that it was time for the final song which of course was…”Umbrella”. Jay took care of the opening bars and then left the stage for Rihanna to end the evening.

Having not been a fan of hers up and until now, I have to say I was impressed. Don’t get me wrong, Rihanna is not the best singer, nor is she the best dancer or performer. BUT what she is, is a (pop) star. She works whatever she has and works it well. Her fashion, her edginess, her…Swagger (for lack of a better word) is so on point. You can’t knock that. I’ve said it time and time again, the best thing that Rihanna could have done is: Get Angry.

Many people complained that the show was too short. That it was lacklustre. That the sound was rubbish (which truesay, could have been a lot better, but I always find that venue has crap sound). I say: stop moaning, it was a FREE gig!

I thoroughly enjoyed the evening. It was great seeing so many friendly faces, catching up with those I haven’t seen in a minute. And breaking bread (Nando’s of course) with the extended crew/family.

Peace, Love & Rihanna

Speeakz