This year's Dreamville festival paid homage to its inaugural event four years ago with a lineup featuring breakout artists, OG rapper performances, J. Cole's Dreamville crew, a surprise appearance by Teyana Taylor, and SZA's return, but as a headliner. The festival boasted numerous attractions, a wide selection of food and drinks, and experiences, like the Bacardi and Hennessy tent that offered special drinks, DJ’s and other special appearances.
The day kicked off with Domani, son of rap legend T.I., followed by Luh Tyler's energetic performance on the Rise stage. The 18-year-old Floridian rapper delivered hits like "Backflippin," "Change My Wayz," and "Law and Order."
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Over at the Shine stage, Teezo Touchdown captivated the crowd with his fun, eccentric style and interactive performance prompting audience participation in activities like barking before the song, “” singing along to "Neighbor" to your neighbors in the crowd and even flexing imaginary Rolex watches whilst played.
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The anticipation heightened for Sexxy's performance, marked by the distribution of props to the front row. As the show began, a sea of red "Make America Sexy Again" hats and “Sexxy For President” flags flooded the crowd, elevating the energy and getting both the girls and guys to get down and embrace their sexy.
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Jeremih graced the Rise stage with classic favorites before Lil Yachty took over the Shine stage, a performance everyone was running back for. Lil Yachty electrified the audience with his energetic set, inciting mosh pits and performing his breakout singles "One Night" and "Broccoli."
Schoolboy Q followed with a dynamic performance, blending classics like "Man Of The Year" with tracks from his latest project "Blue Lips." He also acknowledged his affiliation with Kendrick Lamar, highlighting J. Cole's respect for the legendary rapper.
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The night's first headliner, 50 Cent, appeared on stage in a glass box filled with smoke, 50 went through his classic songs like “In Da Club” and “21 Questions” along with multiple wardrobe changes. In the middle of a wardrobe switch North Carolina’s own, DaBaby came out onstage. Bringing with him his nephew and his daughter.
Sza concluded the festival with a return to the Shine stage, her set featuring a makeshift boat and a caged area with a wrecking ball. Her passionate performance and soulful songs resonated deeply with the crowd, practically healing them in the process. She played hits from her album “SOS” such as, “Snooze, “Blind”, “Shirt” and “Nobody Gets Me” that deeply moved the crowd that echoed the lyrics right along with her. Sza also honored her day ones by performing “Broken Clocks”, “Weekend” and “Love Galore”. She ended her set with Good Days and gave everyone a reason to be misty eyed at the beauty and emotional depth of her performance.
(PC:@moresoupplease)