Photos courtesy of John Cotter
CHICAGO — As JID and Smino‘s ‘Luv Is 4ever’ tour came to a close this past week, the talented tandem packed in the historic Aragon Ballroom (March 21) feeling the “LUV” on all levels.
It felt like fans were family amongst the Dreamville emcee and St. Louis superstar — which ultimately acted as a de facto hometown show. Alongside fellow STL newcomer Jordan Ward — who is set to make his festival debut at Dreamville Fest this weekend (April 1-2) — personal connection proved to be the overwhelming theme of their sets, finding ways to interact with fans regardless of the swarmed atmosphere.
Onlookers from atop the Aragon’s raised platforms felt the same type of connection with those riding the rails. In the end, it was all about spreading love. “Let me see those hearts up” JID constantly asked the crowd, keeping fans engaged by telling contextual anecdotes weaved within his latest studio album The Forever Story: Performing “Kody Blu 31,” “Bruddanem” and of course, his patented finale banger “STICK.” Among more recent cuts, fan-favorites in “Never” and “Off Da Zoinkys” found their way into his setlist.
Smino matched the same energy, yet it felt more immersive on a personal level. While a native to St. Louis — just four hours southwest of the city — Smi’s influence in Chicago has been felt since the start of his career, displaying a level of comfortability on stage that I have yet to experience up until this point. Donning a million-dollar smile, Smino put on a prolific performance beyond the music, playing cult classics like “Anita,” “Z4L” and “Netflix & Dusse” among a medley of Luv 4 Rent cuts.
With JID and Metro Boomin’s collab album looming closer, the “Baguetti” duo need to reconnect beyond the stage for a joint record. The ‘Luv Is 4Ever’ tour showcased how perfect this pair is, even if they performed complementary sets.
Check out our favorite shots below!
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