Killer Mike - QMU Glasgow
Date: 23rd August 2024
Location: QMU - Glasgow, Scotland
Killer Mike, who’s been riding high after winning three Grammys in February, brought his A-game to Glasgow’s QMU on 23rd August 2024. Originally scheduled to be played at the city's O2 Academy, the gig’s shift to the more intimate venue made for an electric atmosphere, the kind that only a smaller one can offer. Despite coming from Atlanta, Mike made Glasgow feel like a second home and his passionate Scottish fanbase certainly welcomed him as one of their own.
The night kicked off with a nostalgic set from DJ Trackstar, who got the crowd going with a mix of ‘90s R&B and hip-hop classics. Trackstar mentioned that Mike wanted it to feel like the basement parties he grew up with in Atlanta, and it hit the mark perfectly, with crowd-pleasers setting the standard for what was to come.
When Mike finally stepped on stage, he opened with “Down By Law”, his collaboration with CeeLo Green. The slow start of the track, paired with the backing singers entrance, built the anticipation perfectly. By the time the beat dropped, the crowd was fully engaged, and the energy didn't dip for the rest of the night. ‘Run’ had the entire venue singing and dancing along, and it was clear from the start that this was going to be a night to remember.
The setlist was a mix of old favourites and tracks from his latest album, Michael & the Mighty Midnight Revival: Songs for Sinners and Saints. The gospel influences in the new songs added a rich, soulful layer to his performance, showcasing how much Mike has evolved stylistically since his start in music, when he made his recording debut on Outkast's 2000 album, Stankonia. The band was flawlessly in-sync and, when they each introduced themselves individually with hits including the “Cheers” theme tune, the crowd responded with a sing-along.
Mike didn’t just stick to music, either. True to his reputation as an outspoken activist, he took moments between songs to speak on important issues including systemic racism and women’s rights. It felt as if he was having a real talk with the audience, adding a further personal touch to an already intimate show.
Throughout the night, Mike’s rapping was on point, and he even dropped a few impromptu freestyle verses between songs. His passion and energy was evident, and the chemistry between him and his backing vocalists made for several powerful moments. He showed gratitude for his Grammy successes, detailing 20+ years of hard work to get to this stage.
All in all, Killer Mike’s first return to Glasgow since 2017 was a standout performance. It felt like a celebration of how far he’s come and a reminder of why he’s still at the top of his game, highlighted by him winning mainstream awards this year. By concluding the set with “Thank you Lord”, he summarised his all-round gratitude for the growth in his career and his continued success.
Written and Photographed by: Ross Wardrop - (Portfolio)
