Photos by ellmatik for A3C Media Services
Mass Appeal brought some of hip hop legends to the A3C 2016 stage. Redman, Bun B, Too Short, and Bone Thugs-N-Harmony all rocked the crowd at Saturday’s 1996 showcase.
Redman kicked things off performing classics including a couple of tracks from his 1996 release Muddy Waters. Although many fans were still trying to fight their way through the understaffed festival entrance, Reman still gave it his all. The climax came as the crowd did its best impression of Method Man for a performance of “Da Rockwilder.”
Texas legend Bun B was up next kicking things off with a performance of “Let Me See It” from UGK’s 2001 album Dirty Money. The crowd once again, was integral part of the performance as they helped recite some of the most iconic verses from the late great Pimp C. Renditions of “Big Pimpin” and “International Players Anthem” set the atmosphere on fire.
Mass Appeal kept things going with Cali rap vet Too Short. Despite being 50, the Oakland native rocked the show performing tracks that span his 30 year career. The crowd enthusiastically shouted Too Short’s favorite word as he ran through hits like “the Ghetto” and “Blow the Whistle.” He also brought out Texas rapper Trae the Truth to perform a couple of songs.
Twista also hit the stage to make a surprise performance. He showcased his spitfire flows over smooth tracks like “Overnight Celebrity” and “Slow Jamz.”
Not many rappers can say they have worked with Tupac, the Notorious B.I.G. and Eazy E, but all three of these hip-hop legends have one thing in common. They all collaborated with Cleveland rap group Bone Thugs-n-Harmony. While on hand at A3C 2016 to close out the 1996 showcase Bone Thugs took time to pay homage to some of the most important players of the era while running through their own arsenal of hits. “Crossroads,” “Let’s Ride,” “Thug Luv,” and “Foe the Love of Money,” all the got the crowd hype during the final set of the 1996 showcase.