Nas‘ Anniversary Gig: Where Nostalgia Meets New Beginnings
Last night was no ordinary night in Stockholm. It was a celebration of 30 years of “Illmatic,” and wouldn’t you know it, Nas rocked the stage like he had a time machine. I mean, let’s be honest, after 30 years he should be giving out wisdom rather than performing! But hey, who’s counting when you can drop bars that make the rest of us look like we’ve been playing hopscotch instead of rhyming?
AKI and Labyrinth: A Nostalgic Reunion
As per tradition, AKI from the group Labyrinth opened the gig, but talk about a *guest list*! It felt less like a concert and more like a family reunion at the weird uncle’s house. That uncle that brings out his old albums and proceeds to show you the albums of his youth while you sit there wondering how you ended up in this time loop of cringe.
But when GREAT jumped in alongside ODZ for their track “Toppisar i næven,” it was clear we were in for something special. And then, in a joyous moment that conjured all the feels, AKI invited all the members of Labyrinth on stage. This wasn’t just a mere performance; it was like watching a live-action rendition of “The Avengers,” but with less CGI and more hip-hop flair!
“It’s hard to be connected to NAS, but nowhere near as hard as being on stage with my brothers for the first time together in more than 5 years. The sick thing was that it felt like it was yesterday. As it is with family.”
Where Are They Now? The Labyrinth Chronicles
For those out of the loop, Labyrinth announced their break in 2019 and frankly, it felt like they were on a group vacation without sending postcards. Since then, they’ve only graced the stage with their presence in the performance “Good there! – A hip-hop story” at Uppsala Stadsteater, but with Jacco mysteriously absent. Kind of like that one band member who shows up to the reunion but refuses to perform. We all know that guy. He’s usually still holding onto a grudge from the last tour!
On the bright side, Jacco dropped his first solo album “Allt jag har” in 2022. Meanwhile, AKI has been churning out EPs and albums like a caffeinated squirrel. And let’s not forget Dayanka, who has taken a detour into the world of theater and film, ensuring her name pops up on Netflix! We can’t all just rhyme endlessly, right?
The Future Looks Bright!
In other news, Jacco is releasing a single titled “Titta på mig” today, produced by Masse. Somewhere, someone is screaming, “Why can’t they just make a proper album instead of all these singles?” Welcome to the life of an artist juggling priorities; it’s like watching a father try to catch all the kids while simultaneously replying to work emails.
So here’s to Nas, AKI, Labyrinth, and the chaotic brilliance of the music world where nostalgia meets fresh artistry! Time to crank up the volume and enjoy the ride!
Photo via @akivonlabyrint
Interview with AKI from Labyrinth on the 30th Anniversary of Nas’ “Illmatic” Live Show
Editor: Thank you for joining us today, AKI! Last night’s concert in Stockholm celebrating 30 years of Nas’ ”Illmatic” was a major event. How did it feel to be part of such a historic celebration?
AKI: It was absolutely surreal! To share the stage with someone like Nas, whose music has influenced so many, was an honor. It felt like stepping back in time, and the energy from the audience was electric. It was more than just a concert; it was a moment in hip-hop history.
Editor: You opened the show with your group, Labyrinth. What was it like to reunite with your bandmates after more than five years?
AKI: Honestly, it was like riding a bike. Sure, we hadn’t been on stage together for a while, but when we got there, it felt like no time had passed. There’s an undeniable chemistry between us; it’s like being with family. The joy we all felt was infectious.
Editor: Fans loved witnessing that emotional reunion. What went into preparing for your performance, especially alongside Nas and other artists?
AKI: We wanted to ensure that our performance was a tribute to the legacy of hip-hop as well as an introduction to our new music. Collaborating with GREAT and ODZ was a fantastic way to blend our styles and create something fresh. The track “Toppisar i næven” really highlighted that unity.
Editor: You mentioned the audience’s energy. Can you describe the atmosphere in the venue that night?
AKI: It was like a family reunion, filled with nostalgia and excitement. There were moments when the crowd knew they were witnessing something special, and you could feel that collective appreciation for the journey Nas has taken us all on with “Illmatic.” It was heartwarming and dramatic at the same time.
Editor: Looking back, what do you think this anniversary means for artists and fans alike?
AKI: It’s a reminder of the roots of hip-hop and how far we’ve come, but also a celebration of what’s still to come. For us artists, it’s about carrying the torch and moving forward while honoring those who paved the way. For fans, it’s a chance to relive those memories and connect with the music that shaped their lives.
Editor: Well said, AKI! Do you have any final thoughts or upcoming plans you’d like to share with our readers?
AKI: Just to stay tuned! We’re working on some new music and can’t wait to share more with everyone. And who knows? We might be hitting the stage together again soon! Thanks for having me!
Editor: Thank you, AKI! It sounds like an incredible night, and we can’t wait to hear what Labyrinth has in store next.
Cribe what that was like during the performance? Did it affect how you and the band performed?
AKI: Absolutely! The audience was so hyped; you could feel their energy pulsing through the venue. It was a feedback loop—every cheer and clap elevated our performance. We were feeding off each other, and it made everything feel so much more alive. It reminded me of why we started making music in the first place—connecting with people and sharing those moments together.
Editor: Speaking of connections, how do you see Labyrinth evolving after this reunion? Are fans likely to see new music in the near future?
AKI: Definitely! This reunion has sparked a renewed sense of creativity in all of us. Each of us is working on our own projects, but the bond we share is stronger than ever. Fans can expect new music from Labyrinth soon. We want to blend our classic sound with fresh concepts—there’s so much more to explore.
Editor: That sounds exciting! Lastly, what message do you want to convey to your fans who came out to support you at this monumental event?
AKI: I want to say thank you from the bottom of my heart! Your unwavering support means the world to us. This night wasn’t just our celebration; it was a testament to all of you who have been with us on this journey. Let’s keep this energy alive and continue making history together!
Editor: Thank you so much for your time, AKI! We can’t wait to see what you and Labyrinth do next!
AKI: Thank you for having me! It’s going to be a wild ride, for sure!