Long overdue: Vince Staples’ NPR Debut

Long Beach native Vince Staples makes his debut on NPR Tiny Desk (Home) Concert after constant demand throughout the years.

Vince finally had the chance to grace his fans with a live performance at the Tiny Desk. His supporters have been requesting this guesting since the NPR blew up on Youtube, and here comes the right time. Although Tiny Desk is on a work from home set-up for the foreseeable future, they still manage to bring us NPE Tiny Desk (Home) Concerts. Featuring artists of various genres and cultures from across the globe. It’s the same spirit—stripped-down sets, an intimate setting—just a different space.

The rapper, singer, songwriter often plays with a live band so this experience was a first to many. He was accompanied by his producer Kenny Beats, who played the bass. Kenny also handled the bulk of Vince’s new self-titled album. Gio “Dutchboi” Ligeon was on the guitar and vocals; Reske: keys, vocals; David Meyers Jr.: drums; and Fousheé on vocals. Fousheé is featured in Vince’s album in the song ‘Take Me Home’ which they performed at the said event. Among other songs are “LAW OF AVERAGES”, “SUNDOWN TOWN”, and “THE SHINING”.

Vince Staples was known for his vulgar and bold rap style. He blew up 6 years ago with his single ‘Norf Norf’ rapping about his life growing up on Norfside, Long Beach tackling police brutality, abuse, and stupid stuff he did as a kid. 

Vince released his fourth album, which is his self-titled album, last July 9, 2021. It was composed of 12 tracks with stand-outs such as ‘Big Fish’ and ‘Law of Averages’.