After multiple delays and postponement due to travel issues, Princess Nokia finally touched down in Toronto and played a pair of sold-out shows at the new Velvet Underground on Queen Street West. Rumours were circulating about her attendance prior to the show but a short tweet from the New York rapper appeared shortly before the doors were set to open confirming she was in fact in the city.
Toronto’s own EBHONI, a rising R&B voice hailing from downtown, provided opening vibes before Nokia took the stage. Accompanied by a pair of backup dancers, the young singer ran through a full set of vocal highs and choreography with an air of expertise. (Check out her SoundCloud, you won’t be disappointed)
Following EBHONI’s departure, Princess Nokia finally appeared, accompanied by local DJ (and Sidewalk Hustle contributor) JAYEMKAYEM, and began her performance with an apology for cancelling the two previously scheduled shows and a rundown of some basic “Princess Nokia show” rules. Firstly, all males were asked to move to the back of the venue to allow females a chance to stand in the front. Nokia also declared that her shows are a safe space for any and all people, but most importantly women, LGBTQ and trans-identifying individuals and people of colour.
The New York rapper performed an explosive set to the intimate crowd consisting of tracks from her two mixtapes and 1992 EP released back in 2016 including major underground hits like “Bart Simpson,” “Tomboy” and “Kitana.” Nokia concluded the performance with a promise to return once again (less any continued travel issues).
Check out our photos below.
EBHONI
PRINCESS NOKIA
