Schoolboy Q Turns It Up At Summerstage 2014, NYC

Words by Dashaun Simmons @13Rose | Photos by Shino Yanagawa @shinopaz

It was only two years ago that Schoolboy Q graced the Central Park audience as a middle act supporting Childish Gambino for a sold out show. At the time he was still building his fanbase and when he performed the low key single “There He Go” the crowd response was small but focused. A number one album in 2014 has certainly changed the situation for TDE’s second blockbuster artist after Kendrick Lamar.

The evening started off on schedule with openers like new R&B sensation Tinashe enjoying love from a weary yet energetic crowd, wondering if the rain would kill the vibe for this epic night of hip hop and R&B. Being that we were in NYC it’s only right that A$AP Mob came through to support their Cali bredren. A$AP Nast did his 90’s influenced banger Trillmatic.

A$AP Mob

Flatbush Zombies were an unsuspected bonus for the show. Their constant touring has really honed their showmanship.

Flatbush Zombies

As the show continued to build everyone lost their minds when A$AP Ferg stepped on stage and showed why he’s still the Trap Lord. Shabba and Work still go like they just came out yesterday. Hella Hoes is an instant turn up record for the Mob even without A$AP Rocky.

A$AP Ferg

After the A$AP set, the West Coast Puff Daddy himself took the stage looking over an audience filled with bucket hats. Starting off with Fuck LA, Schoolboy Q sets the pace and never really lets up. Whereas in 2014 where he was likely to end with his A$AP Rocky assisted single Hands On The Wheel, it’s now the second song of his set. Must be nice. Rocky eventually did join Q on stage to perform PMW from his debut album along with their mixtape banger Brand New Guy. The ladies of course lost it at the sight of the braided up Harlemite.

Schoolboy Q and A$AP Rocky

The features didn’t stop there as fellow Black Hippy member Ab-Soul joined the fun promoting his newly released album These Days with a little help from Queens native Action Bronson with Stigmata.

Ab-Soul and Action Bronson

Bringing out all of these friends and family took it’s toll and made Q cut his show a little short. Break the Bank only got one verse but he made sure to have enough space to finish off the evening with Man of the Year. What a difference a #1 album makes.

Flatbush Zombies