I’m mildly obsessed with the Carter family. I mean I’m not a psycho who stalks outside their house, but close enough. Maybe it’s because I haven’t found out where they live. My love affair with Hova began a few years ago when I just got out of a long relationship with rock music. I was one of those people jamming out to alternative, indie and classic rock, while simultaneously, and unfairly, hating on pop and rap. And then I started listening to Jay-Z. Just like Green Day (yes, Green Day) opened up the portal to greater rock music, Jay-Z changed my perspective on rap. His use of double entendre, word play and metaphor makes his music smart; while his beats make it clubworthy. Musically, he’s had a few missteps but overall there are many gems in his discography. His best songs tell stories; sort of like the Bob Dylan of rap. His protégée and Captain-Save-a-Hoe, Kanye West, has long been the go-to producer for Jigga’s most brilliant, sonically pleasing songs. In addition to being a rap God, Hov also puts on a helluva (awesome?) show. I’ve gone to two shows: Watch the Throne and Made in America Festival, and both times I’ve literally pissed my pants because I screamed so hard. I was that white girl embarrassingly dancing and rapping along to the music. At his shows, there’s no grandiose production or props on stage, but as long as you’re there for the music, you’ll have an amazing time.
My relationship with Mrs. Carter is a little more complicated. I’m a huge fan but I think her public image is too calculated, too perfect, a little too fake. But onstage she actually is perfect. She dances her ass off while putting her talented voice to good use. She always puts on a show that is teeming with hard work, practice, and sheer force. The set pieces are intricate, the costumes are gorgeous, and the concert rivals any Broadway show. Her voice has a wide enough range that she can sing crowd pleasers, while also bringing a bit of soul and Motown to her ballads. She’s a true performer, and a true talent amongst her mediocre pop peers. While good ticket seats are a bit pricey, it’s worth every penny. So if you decide to attend either of their concerts, I’ll see you there, front row seats.