Vince Staples

Vince Staples first gained exposure in music following his verse on Earl Sweatshirt's debut album, a crude verse which perhaps reflected his youth. But the Vince Staples we hear today has clearly developed as an artist, performing with greater authority and maturity than what has come before. Hailing from Long Beach, California, Staples looked to impress when appearing at SOB's (Sounds of Brazil) in New York. It was an intimate atmosphere which allowed the young Staples to flourish, with a real buzz around the room, anxious to see what the rapper was made of. Technically, he delivered his lines with tremendous flow, still with a ferocious energy that made it a truly riveting performance. He played new songs along with tracks pulling more heavily from the Odd Future sound of before. The Odd Future collaboration "Hive" was a highlight, with the crowd singing back the words with enthusiasm. I say singing, it was more like screaming. "Blue Suede," a newer song was equally memorable, showing that Vince Staples definitely has potential to develop into a prominent part of the Hip Hop scene. He is an exciting performer with real lyrical talent and smooth, meticulous flow and definitely one to watch, growing significantly since his younger years.