Pharoahe Monch “W.A.R.” (We Are Renegades) Album Release Party (Pics and Video)

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This is one of those shows I feel privileged to have attended, as corny as it may sound but it reminded me why I love Hip-Hop. Pharoahe Monch released his new album, “W.A.R.” (We Are Renegades) on March 22nd, as part of radio station HOT97’s “Who’s Next?”  The Queens-bred rapper celebrated the album’s release with a concert that truly embodied the renegade sprit along side his Duck Down family, fans, and friends at SOBs.

I knew there would be special guests and end up a memorable night, but I would have never imagined it would have been as legendary as it turned out.

It’s one of those times where I really don’t have the words to even do the show justice….here’s the roster of artists that showed up and showed much earned respect to Pharoahe and his music: E-40, MOP, Rah Digga, Buckshot, Immortal Technique, Craig G, O.C., Large Professor, Neek, Blitz the Ambassador, Torae, Styles P, Jean Grae and many others

The night was kicked off by a 12-year old rapper known as “The Brooklyn Beast,Gist from Queens, fellow Duck Down affiliate Skyzoo and finally Duck Down’s David Dallas from New Zealand who was last before Pharoahe came out to tear down the stage with DJ Boogie Blind, Mela Machinko and Showtyme. The show never had a dull moment, even Styles P came through SOBs to document the show on his camera, leaving the crowd with one thought,  “I can tell u one thing though, I f**ks with Pharoahe Monch. I’m on some MC shit, and this man put in work.”. Every artist left the stage with a final shout out to Pharoahe and his new album. The crowd could feel the love on stage, I’ve never seen such respect between Hip-Hop artists.

After the show, Pharoahe said:

“Amazing night last night – I was overwhelmed by the people, friends and artists who came out to support. I was so busy feeling the love that I didn’t have time to be nervous. Last night was a victory for all who’ve let go of the reins and trusted their heart. In love there will always be pain and struggle, but this was one glorious victory in an ongoing battle. The war continues, we are renegades.”

Nobodybeatstheliz.com had the best quote describing the night: “Last night’s show at SOBS was the testament of what every hip hop show should be.. so much love, respect, talent and [humility].”

As the night drew to an end, Pharahoe threw in a Nate Dogg tribute performing “Oh No,’ Monch’s 2000 collaboration with the late crooner from the Lyricist Lounge 2 album.“Nate dogg passed away last week,” Pharoahe said, as “Xxplosive” played. “Let’s celebrate his life. Make some noise for Nate Dogg.”

Finally, the only way to end such a show, Pharoahe’s infamous “Simon Says,” I’ve never seen the crowd at SOBs get to loud, everyone had their hands up.

Pharoahe’s final words, “Support real hip-hop, ya’ll, My name is Pharoahe Monch.”

Purchase “W.A.R.” (We Are Renegades)” on iTunes