Concert Review: J.I. Prince Of New York Continues His Rule
Within five minutes of seeing J.I., I was like “Yup, he is a prince all right!” This kid is felt straight from my BX block, and it was 100% his charm. Honestly, Desus and Mero should have been MC’ing the night because it was made for the Nuyoricans that dominate bodega windows with their hilarious wit, athlesiure swag, and Caribbean flags. Thus, entering his show was like entering home: a very specific ambiance of warmth, cheer, and twerking.
J.I. – Love Scars (Official Music Video)
“Apaga la luz!” he yelled taking off his shirt, and the crowd went wild because he, literally, just said “Turn off the light” in Spanish. The truth is that Latinx don’t often hear, see, or feel our presence in the music industry enough; so even our prince saying turn to the switch down felt like a spiritual chant of, “We takin over! One city at a time!” The house was packed for the 3 night, sold-out show, and, honestly, I have never seen a crowd with more drinks and friends at hand. People came in groups and to drink, which was such a good sign for J.I. Prince of New York because it also meant he was the prince of partying, and one that every venue should certainly book to get bucks.
J.I.-“Company” (Official music video)
Sonically, J.I. feels like the smoothest man to get lit, his bassline could drop into the center of the earth, but he will never crack a sweat, a note, or the good vibes of his mood. He was incredibly interpersonal and charming with the crowd; approaching us with a camaraderie that almost felt like he was running in New Hampshire and might beat Bernie and Buttigieg for the primary. Frankly, I felt like putting his name down after the performance because you don’t, often, meet an artist who can draw in a crowd with a feeling of friendship and community. At. S.O.B’s, it was as if he was taking the win for his people, and all we could do was bailar the night in his honor. For More Information On J.I. Prince of New York Click Here.
