I’m still sleepy after being out all night at the BMI’s 14th Annual Unsigned Urban Showcase held at Buckhead Theater. I arrived that evening, and it was already packed with artists, record labels, crews and more.
I am the first to admit that I am not a huge fan of the hip-hop crowd, but there are some artists sprinkled here and there who grab my attention and or whom I really like and want to see. When I read that Rick Ross was the headliner for the BMI Showcase, I was ecstatic to go see him!
Before the showcase began, there was a red carpet for photo opts, cocktails, music blaring from DJ Spontaneous and DJ Holiday and just a great crowd hanging out, mingling and mixing.
I saw Dallas Austin, rapper Diamond and Kaleen from Dirty Money on the carpet. I asked Diamond was it true she was dating Soulja Boy, and she said “Yes,” but added that Scrappy was still her boo. Kaleena, who is very fashionable, had on some huge heels that she told me were designed by Jeffrey Campbell.
Everyone got along very well, and it made my job much easier. We all know that some hip-hop events can get out of hand, but BMI’s events are usually very well-organized, so I knew it would be fine.
BMI features some of the best unsigned artists to perform in front of a crowd of influencers, producers, record execs, other artists and guests.
Shortly afterward, the doors opened to the main venue, and people gathered by the stage. Devyne Stephens received the Legends of ATL Award from BMI and told me he was happy to receive such an honor.
The finalists, Jus Nice, Saunders Sermons, Chase N. Cashe and FKI, all did an amazing job. I liked Chase N. Cashe’s performance the best and so did the crowd and judges. He took home the prize that evening. Later, comedian Lil Duval was the host and brought to the stage Ace Hood, Sean Garrett, Travis Porter and my fav, Rick Ross.
There were also some artists who came to the stage, but were not on the roster, like Pastor Troy, who did a great job, and Kirko Bangz, who did a sample of “What Yo Name Iz.”
Rocko the Don also hit up the stage singing one of his latest hits and the crowd went wild. Travis Porter performed a few of their hits, then Ricky Rozay stormed on stage with a great performance. He talked about his new album, Selfmade, that hits stores Monday, May 23, and he performed about five songs.
I’m a huge fan of this artist and, afterward, I had a chance to go backstage and say hello to him. He loved my tee that I had on, which had just hit stores, and complimented me on it. He then gave me a bear hug, and we took a pic. I interviewed Rick Ross a few years ago at Patchwork Studios in Atlanta, and he was the nicest guy then and now. What a great early birthday treat to see him perform live! I would like to thank BMI for the personal invite. I had a great time! –tammie reed
