[Concert Review] Kota the Friend
On a cool, intimate evening, Kota the Friend took the stage, delivering a performance that embodied everything his music stands for: positivity, relatability, and a deep connection with his audience. From the very beginning, with the opener “The Price” hyping up the small but energetic crowd, the vibe was electric yet personal—exactly the kind of atmosphere that makes Kota’s concerts unique.
The night kicked off with high energy thanks to the DJ/hype man, who set the tone by seamlessly interacting with the audience. At one point, someone handed Kota an entire bag of weed, which he humorously passed along to his DJ, eliciting laughter and setting the laid-back tone of the evening. Kota’s interactions felt like catching up with a close friend. Referring to everyone as “cuzzo”—even jokingly naming audience members like Angela and Edgar—gave the concert a familial vibe.
Tracks like “Light Love” and “Show Me the Hustle” showcased his knack for smooth transitions, often tying his commentary to the next song. His reflective interludes added depth to the set, discussing themes of self-love, generational curses, and finding angels in life’s struggles. Lines like, “Sometimes it’s okay to be selfish with your energy,” hit hard, especially when paired with instrumentals that were both chill and uplifting.
Kota’s ability to connect didn’t just stop with his music; he took time to share the stories behind his songs, offering insights that made his lyrics resonate even more. He talked about “Focus and forward progression,” reminding the audience to take nothing for granted—a heartfelt sentiment woven throughout the night.
The highlight of the evening wasn’t just the music but the moments of spontaneity, like when a fan persistently shouted, “Shout out to Bobby,” until Kota handed them the mic for their moment of glory. It was these personal touches—group photos, shout-outs, and candid jokes—that made the night memorable.
One of the most poignant moments came when he performed tracks like “Letter to the People Out in the Streets” and “Letter to the Colored Boys,” where his lyrical sincerity shone through. These songs grounded the audience in the reality of his message while still leaving them with a sense of hope.
From start to finish, the concert felt like an extended conversation with Kota, filled with themes of peace, love, and positivity. His 2019 visit may have introduced him to this city, but it was clear that his fan base has grown, with both old and new faces coming together to enjoy his music.
Kota the Friend’s performance was more than a concert—it was an experience. With his chill instrumentals and relatable lyrics, he has a unique ability to lift spirits and inspire introspection. By the end of the night, I left wanting to do a deep dive into his discography, not just because the music was great but because of the way he made everyone feel.
If you’re a fan of intimate shows where the artist truly connects with the crowd, Kota the Friend is a must-see. Peace, love, and positivity—that’s the vibe.
