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Made in America Day 1 Recap

The Maybach Music Group featuring Rick Ross, Meek Mill and Wale were among the first artists to perform during day one of the Made in America Festival.  Philly’s own Meek Mill started the show by performing his infamous single “Amen,” and then his street certified “Boss.” Rick Ross kept the crowd moving with his mob-esque single “BMF” and the everyday worker anthem “Hustlin.” Wale rounded out the MMG performances with his hit single “Slight Work” and club banger “No Hands.” In between the major music sets, fans were treated to the music of Janelle Monae who performed her inspirational songs “Tightrope” and “Coldwar.” D’Angelo performed his love songs “How Does It Feel” and “Brown Sugar” which was enough to get the crowd ready for what was about to come.

The festival’s curator, Sean “Jay-Z” Carter was the last to perform and was sure to not disappoint any of his fans.  Jay-Z took to the stage as his hit single “Made In America” played in the background, bringing  the true meaning of the music festival into full circle. The music mogul performed nearly all of his songs including “Excuse Me” and “Dirt Off Your Shoulder.” Within an hour the show became Jay-Z and friends with some surprise musical performances. Producer Swizz Beatz joined Jay-Z on stage to perform “On To The Next One.” G.O.O.D Music was out in full force as Kanye West led the way with Big Sean, Pusha T, and 2 Chainz by performing “Mercy” and “I Don’t Like.” Jay-Z also reunited with Roc-A- Fella alumni Freeway and Young Gunz to perform “What We Do” to the amazement of the crowd. Lastly, Jay-Z performed “Encore” followed by fireworks from the stage to end the night.

Made in America Day 2 Recap

Philly’s own Jill Scott was among the first artists to perform during day two of the Made in America Festival.  Scott performed her hit single “Long Walk” and uplifting single “Golden.” Jill Scott even brought out rapper Eve to perform with her for the song “Shame.”  The two also teamed up for Eve’s single “Blow Your Mind” before parting ways. In between the major music sets, fans watched the performances of Rita Ora and Odd Future. For the first time since 2002, legendary hip hop group Run- DMC took to the stage to perform their old school songs “My Adidas” and “Down With The King.” Paying homage to the late DJ Jam Master Jay, Run D.M.C allowed his sons DJ Dasmatic and Jam Master J’son to do a special music mix in honor of their father. Rapper Drake performed with a live band instead of a dj for his declaration single “It’s Over and party anthem “Yolo.” Drake also had a memorable performance with rapper 2 Chainz performing “Spend It” and “No Lie.” In a surprise turn of events, Jay-Z came back on stage to perform “99 Problems “with the iconic rock group Pearl Jam to wrap up the festival.

(Review conducted by Najah Renee)