Fredo Santana Delivers An Energized Performance In NYC

After several jail stints that date back to when he was 12 years old, young Chicago rapper, Fredo Santana, began on working toward his plan to seriously pursue rap as a career. With the success of his Trapping Ain't Dead EP, he proved to the hip-hop world that his aggressive style is still prevalent as ever. His heavy bass lined beats and street lyrics caught the ears of many listeners creating the loyal fan base he has today.

Last night (May 14) at Highline Ballroom, Fredo's fans were definitely in the building. The show opened with Bronx rapper and Supreme skater, Black Dave, alongside his crew the Stone Roller Gang. While different styles of hip-hop blessed the stage, the audience greeted Black Dave with open arms. From songs like “What’s Ya Occupation?” to “F**k Everybody” Black Dave kept the youthful audience hyped and energized.

At 9:10 PM the atmosphere in the room changed: the floor began moving, people began screaming, and smoke was in the air. Savage Squad members came out on stage and began pumping up the crowd. They created a sense of oneness between them and the audience. They allowed for fans to feel as if they were part of Savage Squad for a night, removing the image of celebrity in the room and allowing for a more intimate, homeboy relationship. Fredo Santana opened up the show with “Rob My Plug.” It was amazing to see the audience zone out with him, rapping to the lyrics of the song.

Drinks, money, and imitation gun sounds flying everywhere, Fredo and his crew created an image of their livelihood on stage. After performing “Jealous,” Fredo brought out a special guest. The audience went crazy when they heard the voice of New York City rapper, 2014 XXL Freshman Troy Ave, as he came out on stage. After performing their recent collaboration, “My Pride,” Troy blessed the stage with his latest hit “My Style.” It was a sight to see Troy and Fredo vibe out together as Troy sang “My Style” a cappella.

Ending with “F**k the Other Side,” Fredo Santana and Savage Squad were able to provide NYC a sense of the lifestyle of a street kid from Chicago. Despite his association with gang violence, Fredo and the whole Savage Squad family, has been able to make music for the Chi and became the voice of the entire city. People are listening to their story.—Raven Irabor