Kanye West and Ty Dolla $ign’s Rolling Loud Performance: It’s a Scam or an Unconventional Experience?
Rolling Loud California, one of the most anticipated music festivals of the year, recently served as the backdrop for an unexpected turn of events. Fans expecting an energetic and engaging performance by headliners Kanye West and Ty Dolla $ign were left disappointed when the duo chose not to perform on stage, opting for a different approach entirely. Instead, Ye and Ty stood on stage for an hour, devoid of microphones while the pre-recorded music for their new album, VULTURES, played in the background.
A Headlining Mystery: Confusion and Disappointment
Rolling Loud, known for its exciting lineups and unforgettable performances, added Ye and Ty Dolla $ign as headliners for a new Thursday night event. However, the official announcement regarding their performance lacked specifics and left many fans puzzled. Promising excitement, the announcement did not indicate that it would be a listening party rather than a conventional headlining spectacle.
Fans were expecting an unforgettable performance, given their status as headliners and the high anticipation surrounding their appearances on stage. However, their presence turned out to be a listening party, leaving just a DJ to play some of Kanye West’s greatest hits. Ye, sporting his signature hockey mask, roamed the stage as if it were his well-known listening parties. Ty Dolla $ign accompanied him in their dark hooded outfits. Fans couldn’t help but express their disappointment and frustration on social media, calling the event a “scam.”
A Different Perspective: Defending the Unconventional
Kanye West and Ty Dolla $ign have since responded to the backlash surrounding their Rolling Loud performance. In an interview with Big Boy TV, they defended their decision to deviate from conventional expectations.
According to the duo, the essence of their “show” lies in the lighting effects, smoke, and overall atmospheric experience that they provide. They believe that audiences will be captivated by the unique visuals and the ambiance created on stage. “It’s still better than other people’s shows that have a mic,” they asserted. While they acknowledge that their performance might have been unconventional, they firmly believe that people will attend solely for the unparalleled “experience” they provide.
A Stage Fit for Performance: Building Expectations
Rolling Loud organizers themselves had erected a special stage with a circular lighting rig specifically for West and Dolla $ign’s performance. They expected a more conventional and highly engaging headlining spectacle. However, the choice not to perform left both the audience and the organizers disheartened. Some festival-goers, particularly those who purchased “Thursday-only” tickets, felt let down, as they expected a more traditional live performance from such prominent artists.
The Past and the Present: Censure and Controversy
This development comes after many fans of the festival criticized the organizers for inviting Kanye West in the first place, considering his past antisemitic remarks. These remarks, as well as his overall controversial reputation, caused skepticism among fans. The unconventional format of their performance at Rolling Loud only amplified this criticism.
While for some, the experience of attending a Kanye West and Ty Dolla $ign listening party without any traditional performance aspects might be appealing, many attendees felt cheated. Rolling Loud had prided itself on delivering exceptional live performances, so this unorthodox choice left fans yearning for more.