It takes a special artist to perform alongside the legendary hip-hop band The Roots and hold their own. During Hennessy’s Artistry concert at Miami’s Ice Palace, Eve was backed by The Roots band and ignited the audience during her 20-minute performance.
Wearing black tights, a black bikini top and a beige blazer, Eve was sexy without coming off as slutty. She displayed her sensuality while simultaneously commanding respect.
As she performed her hit songs “What Y’all Want,” “Who’s That Girl?” and “Tambourine,” her cadence remained consistent and her lyrics resonated with female and male audience members. It served as a reminder that Eve is an elite emcee and other female rappers, not named Lauryn Hill, are far behind her.
Although Lil Wayne’s protégé, Nicki Minaj, currently reigns as hip-hop’s most exciting female rapper, she must work harder to prove herself by giving listeners more than simplistic rhymes and controversial attire.
For 10 years, Eve has relied on solid wordplay and production to elevate her career, not a sexy and provocative image. Since making her debut on The Roots hit single “You Got Me” in 1998, Eve’s rhyming skills have forced the industry and hip-hop fans to pay attention. Eve will release her fourth album, Lip Lock, in 2011. –a.r.
