“The best concert of all time”: Tyler, The Creator lights up the AmericanAirlines Arena on his Miami stop for the “IGOR” Tour

BY EMMA HUERTA

Fashioned with a platinum-blond, bob-cut wig, rectangular sunglasses and a bright baby-blue suit, one of the most influential young artists of this millenium steps onto the stage of the AmericanAirlines Arena in Miami, Florida on September 29. Seemingly unrecognizable outside of his typical Los Angeles skater-style streetwear or entire outfits composed of his own clothing brand “GOLF,” this artist encompasses a persona—a character, one might say—representative of almost anything relating to pure feeling and passion.

So, who is he?

None other than Tyler, The Creator. Tonight, however, “Tyler” shared the stage with the superego “IGOR,” a never-before-seen side of the musician that came to life with his critically-acclaimed sixth studio album of the same name. 

Tyler’s Miami show represents the end of his September tour dates, which were to feature fellow hip-hop artists Goldlink and Jaden Smith. The October tour dates will also feature Goldlink, but R&B singer Blood Orange will tag along instead of Smith.

Although doors to the venue opened at 6 p.m. and the actual show started at 7, excited fans lined up outside of the building for hours in anticipation, with some even camping outside since the early morning. 

Tonight, however, “Tyler” shared the stage with the superego “IGOR,” a never-before-seen side of the musician that came to life with his critically-acclaimed sixth studio album of the same name. 

Not only were the enthusiasm and jitters from outside the arena maintained during the show itself, but so was the sense of fellowship among all of the attendees, regardless of the fact that many were strangers to each other. This, along with the performances, was what made the concert such a memorable night for so many.

The show first started with a short, 30-minute opening performance by Washington D.C. rapper Goldlink, who performed some of his hit songs like “Crew,” and also played popular tracks like “Dark Night Dummo” by Trippie Redd. His wild and raging stage presence was sure to quickly get everyone in a crazy and excited mood.

Later on was Jaden Smith’s opening, which lasted about an hour. Smith performed both “hype” songs such as “ICON” and softer, melancholy tracks like “Summertime in Paris.” And, of course, one cannot forget Smith’s iconic skit, in which he literally shaves his head on stage before leading into the second part of his song “K.”

Finally, the awaited moment for many arrived, as the immediately recognizable, microwave-like buzz of “IGOR’S THEME” blared through the speakers of the arena and was met by the screams of the crowd. Even though Tyler, The Creator walked onto stage in a calm stance, there was something inexplicably thrilling about his serenity, not to mention that once the beat dropped, all excitement broke loose. 

That night, Tyler played popular songs not only from his most recent album “IGOR,” but also past records “Flower Boy” (2017), “WOLF” (2013) and “Goblin” (2011). This included extremely well-known songs such as “EARFQUAKE,” “See You Again,” “IFHY” and the classic “Yonkers.”

Even though Tyler, The Creator walked onto stage in a calm stance, there was something inexplicably thrilling about his serenity, not to mention that once the beat dropped, all excitement broke loose. 

Complete with eccentric light choreography and iconic dance moves, Tyler’s stage presence was definitely felt throughout the venue, appearing to echo both in the walls and in the bodies of those witnessing this awe-inspiring spectacle. Tyler’s immense charisma and interaction with the crowd was sure to connect with all, whether one was watching from the general admission floor or in the farthest seat away.

Almost in a Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde fashion, the personal conflict within Tyler, The Creator between the heart-felt “IGOR” and the rugged and explicit Tyler provides a strange experience that is almost too abstract to understand. However, Tyler, The Creator’s creativity never fails to entice fans, as seen by the immersed audience at the AmericanAirlines Arena. 

It’s easy to agree with the concert merchandise and conclude that this really was “the best concert of all time.”

Photo by Emma Huerta