Arrested Development

Founded in 1988 in Atlanta, Georgia, Arrested Development’s positive messaging, also referred to as “conscious rap” were a significant counterweight to the darker themes of the burgeoning gangsta rap scene, while their embrace of live instrumentation, as well as their enlightened attitude towards women (several of AD’s members were female) distinguished them still further. In 1993, AD were the first ever hip-hop artist to win the “Best New Artist” Grammy, also picking up a second statue for “Best Rap Performance” while topping several critics polls and were named Rolling Stone magazine’s “Band of the Year”. Songs such as ‘Tennessee’,‘Mr Wendal’ and ‘Revolution’ (written for Spike Lee’s film about Malcolm X) further consolidated their reputation and their influence, reverberations of which can still be heard and felt in later acts such as the Roots and Black Eyed Peas.

Led by original founding member Todd Thomas, aka “Speech”, Arrested Development continues to record and tour and has played sold-out concerts in literally every part of the world. The current lineup includes Tasha LaRae & Fareedah (vocals), JJ Boogie (guitar), One Love (vocals/MC) and Eric Dozier (keyboards), augmented by bassist William Montgomery and drummer Corey Raymond.

A rare opportunity to experience this legendary hip-hop act in the most intimate of rooms - and this is the only London performance on this UK/European tour.