As promised back in April, Chicago emcee Common delivered on his promise of the AAHH! Fest.
The 18 and over show drew thousands from across the city and even the country as fans came from neighboring states once getting a glimpse at the star-studded line up. The show opened with up-and-coming rapper Lil Herb, followed by Kendrick Lamar discoveree, Sza. Popular comedian Damon Williams along with Leon Rogers and Tony Scuffield of WGCI’s “Morning Riot” served as the early hosts bringing to the stage Jay Electronica, MC Lyte, De La Soul, and Jennifer Hudson, all of whom gave electrifying performances.
Well known Chicago DJ’s Jermaine, Wayne Williams, Timbuk2, Vince Adams, and Twilite Tone all got a chance to rock the crowd during the brief intermissions. With the audience in hysterics, Williams then introduced the second host of the night, renowned comedian Dave Chappelle. Chicago hip-hop then took over the stage as Chappelle introduced Lupe Fiasco, who ran through so many of his hits that he ran out of time. The night was capped off by Common who went through his catalogue to the crowd’s delight before bringing out veteran emcee Twista for a rousing rendition of some of his hits. And just when no one thought the night could get any better, for his last trick of the evening, Common brought out superstar rapper Kanye West to close the show out on a thunderous note.
Proceeds from the festival support the Common Ground Foundation, Donda’s House Inc., arts education in Chicago Public Schools, and year-round youth jobs initiatives.
Check out performance photos from the AAHH! Fest in the gallery below.
tj armour / @tjarmour
