Humanity Hallows Issue 5 Out Now
Pick up your copy on campus or read online
By Pierangelly Del Rio
Having recently been named the best selling act of 2016 and awarded two Grammys for ‘Hotline Blink’, Aubrey ‘Drake’ Graham is one of the most influential artists of the moment. The Boy Meets World Tour recently brought the Canadian rapper to the UK, taking in several cities including Glasgow, London, Leeds and, of course, Manchester. Ever since, Drake’s presence has been felt everywhere in the country, with tickets being sold out and the media constantly reporting on his extravagant and expensive nights out.
Last Sunday, Drake performed for a second consecutive time at Manchester Arena. At half past nine, the lights dimmed and the rapper began his show, opening with the hit ‘Headlines’ followed by ‘Started from the Bottom’. With his well known charisma, the singer quickly won the crowd over and had them singing his verses. He called Manchester “a second home” and kept repeating, between songs, how he was told the Manchester crowd was the loudest ever. He also showed his gratitude to the audience, reminding them how his fourth studio album Views became the best-sold album in the UK soon after its release.
The show was a visual spectacle, supported by multi-coloured lights and purple balloons which floated in front of the stage. Drake, engulfed by dry ice, was accompanied by a drummer and a DJ (also his manager). There were also four female dancers who joined him for ‘Hotline Blink’, perhaps his most famous song. Nevertheless, regardless of the mostly empty stage, he was able to make his presence felt across the whole arena, constantly talking to the public and addressing those who were in the farthest areas.
The rapper managed to perform over 30 songs from his albums in the 90 minute long show and Drake’s performance was charged with energy and great vocals, clearly free of autotune. Some of the tracks, however, to the disappointment of some fans, were inevitably shortened to a couple of verses and the chorus.
Towards the end of the show, while singing ‘Fake Love’, a projection of a giant ball that represented the world appeared in the middle of the stage. Drake took the opportunity to spread a message of unity, saying that while the audience might be from different races and backgrounds, they had been all united during that night.
The Boy Meets World Tour continues in Sheffield on 17th of February and Birmingham on 22nd and 23rd.
Featured image: WendyWei.pexels With the most anticipated night of the year right around the corner, the big question is looming: where are you going to celebrate it? Whether you dread it or count down the days, are new to the Manchester nightlife scene or are a regular, we’ve got your New Year’s Eve plans sorted….
By Georgia Robinson Featured image and gallery: Ruby Sharp Get one step ahead of your 2025 aesthetic and plan your outfits for the new year with this guide to all the trends we expect to see next year. Why not jazz up your wardrobe with trending accessories or browse Depop and Vinted for a pre-loved…
Featured image and gallery: Kaitlyn Brockley The rumble of trains passing through Piccadilly station, the hollers of touts (“tickets, buy or sell?”) and security (“have your IDs ready”), and the excitable chatter of gig-goers all audibly backdrop the outskirts of Manchester’s Mayfield Depot this dark, damp evening. Leaving the outside chill and travelling along the…
Featured image and gallery: Leo Woollison Crook Angela Cheveau and Kate Carne were crowned winners of the 2024 QuietManDave Prize on Friday. The short-form writing prize is held biennially to honour the memory of the much-loved and well-known Manchester writer and critic Dave Murray, who passed away in 2019. The writers were each awarded £1000…
Leave a reply