By Morgan Wheeler
The hazy room was crowded with fans, eyes fixed on the stage awaiting Dave East’s return to Baltimore. East stopped to preform Baltimore Soundstage on No Place Like Home Tour along with several other artists and special guests. This tour was to promote his album HIDGH, which released in March. Although he grew up in East Harlem, the rapper played basketball at Towson University until his decided to completely focus on his music career.
Baltimore might not be his official hometown, but the crowd treated him like a hometown favorite. Rapping along to deep cuts, popular hits, and even his most recent single Every Day, which was released the week prior. There was also a portrait of East, painted by a fan, displayed prominently on the stage.
Dave East also handed the spotlight over to other up-and-coming local collaborators, pausing the set to let his friends freestyle or perform in front of the crowd. East is a versatile performer who works the crowd with expertise and confidence. He deftly switches from rapping his own verses to handing over the mic and working as an enthusiastic hype man.
Those who missed the show can check out East’s other projects. In addition to being a rapper and basketball player, East also has a recurring role on the web drama Wu-Tang: An American Saga and a guest role on the FX series DAVE. In true New York fashion, he also has an upcoming collaboration with Timberland Boots. There is no official confirmation, but East is sure to return to Baltimore for future projects.