Live Coverage: Tyler, the Creator – The O2 Arena, London

      Clash Live in partnership with WeAre8...

      Tyler, the Creator stands out as arguably the most significant cult artist globally. He skillfully inserts himself into mainstream discussions while his devotees maintain that fervent, cult-like passion, engrossed in every word and facet of his mythology. His transformative changes from one album to the next are mirrored in the attendees around the O2 Arena tonight, with some sporting ‘IGOR’ attire while others explore different elements of their idol's personas. It resembles asteroids orbiting a planet, their chaotic energy (mostly) anchored by his gravitational influence.

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      Lil Yachty takes the stage first. A distinctive figure in rap akin to the headliner, his artistic evolution has shifted from SoundCloud rap to psychedelic yacht rock; tonight, he focuses on his mosh pit anthems, delivering a raw but exhilarating performance during this rare stint in the UK. The audience is fully aware of this, as the arena buzzes with excitement from Yachty’s initial entrance.

      Lil Yachty, keeping his set concise and humble, embraces brevity, enhancing his charm – there’s no need to compete directly with Tyler at his own event.

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      Initially, ‘CHROMAKOPIA’ was envisioned as a vibrant, ultra-stylish world for fans to experience. However, as it hit the road, it transformed – Tyler, the Creator has developed a striking lens, a shadow theater, creating an unmatched experience. The stage's grandiosity and boldness are suddenly illuminated – we find ourselves immersed in his universe, embracing it moment by moment.

      The opening segment showcases highlights from ‘CHROMAKOPIA’ – the allure of ‘Noid’ and the intensity of ‘I Killed You’. Gradually, a catwalk descends, allowing Tyler to execute his frenetic yet graceful movements over the crowd, with circle pits erupting and closing like astonished eyes beneath him.

      As he descends to a stage within the audience, the performance shifts in rhythm. He rises slowly to a nearby record player, flipping through tracks – some Erykah Badu, some OutKast, some Black Eyed Peas, and eventually his own work. One by one, he revives past successes, restoring former glories. Now on his eighth solo studio album, Tyler boasts one of his generation's most significant discographies to draw from – an impressive collection that rivals the best.

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      With fans hanging onto every syllable, there’s a feeling that this admiration is earned yet still surprising. It wasn’t long ago that a Home Secretary named Theresa May attempted to prevent Tyler, the Creator from entering the country. She is gone, and here he is – the O2 has sold out multiple times. Breathless, he pulls out an older album and grins: “This album got me banned from your motherfucking country… I was a menace!” It’s thrilling, yet – as he admits – not flawless. He prompts the crowd for their lack of energy at one point and confesses to dropping the mic during ‘Sticky’. Acknowledging his error, Tyler invites the audience to ridicule him, saying “cos I deserve it! Y’all calling me a wanker? YESSSS!” There’s no denying that this is the tour – the moment – for both the fans and Tyler himself. It’s a culmination, a crowning moment, and as the catwalk reappears – for a stunning performance of ‘Who Dat Boy’ and a sultry ‘WUSYANAME’ – the atmosphere is electric, reaching a boiling point. Years of experience have led to this – as a performer, producer, and artist – and Tyler, the Creator appears sharpened and focused. Few can rival the ‘CHROMAKOPIA’ experience he provides.

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      Words: Robin Murray

      Photography: Shaun Llewellyn

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