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On Friday, June 25th, the 25th annual Taste of Tacoma, sponsored by the Emerald Queen Casino, began with four stages, carnival rides, games, arts and crafts, and of course food. The event took place at Point Defiance Park, and although it was advertised as free, visitors had to pay $10 to park on site, and food, at a minimum was $5.
On the KJR sponsored stage, K. Cartier was welcomed to the platform following a series of songs by Michael Jackson. The announcer explained that she had watched him grow as a person and a performer, and this would be his first time performing at the Taste of Tacoma.
K. Cartier's 40-minute setlist included Shorty You're a Ten, Gots to Have it, a remix of Blame it on the Alcohol, Elevation, and his own tribute to Michael Jackson - Dreams to Reality. K. Cartier explained that while Dreams to Reality was not about Michael Jackson, the song was inspired by the King of Pop, and K. Cartier was honored to sample Michael Jackson's music for the song.
K. Cartier's live performance was dynamic. He interacted with his audience and danced in front of his accompanying band, DiverseCity .
His best song of the short set was "Elevation". Though humbly stating he would not be an artist if it weren't for Michael Jackson, K. Cartier wasn't afraid to confidently assert how he has worked to perfect his craft, with lyrics including "elevation is taking place in my direction" and "When you take a look at me, you're lookin' at elevation". Unlike many hip hop artists, he never claimed to be the best hip hop artist, only that he was working toward his best. During this song he did a "shout and response", asking the audience "when I say 'King of', you say 'Pop'" and "when I say 'M', you say 'J'".
K. Cartier demonstrated his skills as a true hip hop artist deftly switching back and forth between singing and rapping. He showed the crowd that hip hop is a way of life, a culture, and not just a song.
To learn more about K. Cartier check out his myspace page, his music site, and his youtube channel. Fans can also follow him on twitter.
Comments
Its amazing to me that this dude is not signed somewhere, so much talent and you can tell he does what he does because he loves it. Very refreshing to see young hip hop artist do it because its there dream and to do it with lyrics that actually mean something.
I couldn't agree more with "Cory." I've seen this guy before, and the passion and tact with which he attacks the stage is incredible. Great artist, great music, great show.
Oh my god I was at the taste of tacoma and this guy was soo good!
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