Max Domel: Freddie Gibbs & Madlib

Eminem and Dr. Dre, Gang Starr, even Drake and Noah “40” Shebib. While these iconic producer-rapper duos are on another level of fame, the less mainstream partnership of Freddie Gibbs and Madlib, also known as MadGibbs or Kane and Otis, has proven that consistency and world-class talent don’t always get the recognition they deserve outside of hip-hop’s core. In June 2019, the duo released their second collaborative studio album titled “Bandana”—the follow-up to 2015’s critically-acclaimed “Piñata—that ended up ranking high in many year-end album of the year lists in December. For their tiny desk concert, they performed four songs from “Bandana”: “Education”, “Gat Damn”, the outro “Soul Right” and “Freestyle S***”. Not only did the already incredible album sound better live, with a more pure, raw rhythm and soothing instrumentation from the bass to the saxophone, but it was also fun to watch because of how palpable their joy was while playing with the band behind them. In between effortlessly flowing over beats, Gibbs even took the time to talk with the audience, particularly about how his job looks fun but is very difficult, and made them laugh at some of his other jokes, too. To finish this great, underrated performance, Gibbs took himself out of the spotlight with a touching sentiment about his brotherly relationship with Madlib and told the audience to make some noise for the hardworking band members behind him.

Hanif Amanullah: Tom Misch

A London-based producer specializing in jazz-infused alternative sounds, 24-year old Tom Misch’s 2018 Tiny Desk Concert was my first introduction to his chill music. Sporting a jacket and pair of running shorts reminiscent of a jogger, his entire appearance is the essence of “laid-back.” This mood is deepened as soon as he plucks the first note of the concert, the entirety of which contains the songs “It Runs Through Me,” “I Wish” and “Movie” from his latest album “Geography” (2018). Misch’s all-star band is perfect accompaniment to his unique style–the studio versions of the tracks he plays were originally recorded electronically at his home in London. Adapted for live playing, they seem at first sonically sparse: clean-toned guitar phrasing, straightforward drum beats, skillful bass licks, a piano and backup guitar. But when the arrangements reach their peak, Misch’s genius shines through. Each instrument is locked into a central rhythm, inspired by the music of J Dilla and Radiohead, John Mayer and Erykah Badu. Each instrument (as well as his soothingly smooth voice) uses head-bobbing grooves as a foundation to the distinctive elements he brings to the alternative genre: a funky wah-infused breakdown on “I Wish”; a blazing sax solo on “It Runs Through Me”; moving violins on “Movie”. But best of all, Tom Misch is an artist who makes jazz-inspired music accessible. He brings his complex musical knowledge to bite-sized, melodic, pulsating songs—something expertly showcased in his Tiny Desk Concert.

Luci Garza: Lizzo

With her booming voice and iconic charm, Lizzo’s Tiny Desk Concert made a memorable mark on the NPR music show in May of 2019. Bringing some of her best hits and fan favorites, she performed the uplifting and confident beats of “Cuz I Love You,” “Truth Hurts” and “Juice,” with the crowd adding personal flares throughout the 17 minute concert. Unique elements of classic Lizzo include her flutes, which she plays herself, and her iconic proud vocals. She even made Host Bob Boilen’s annual list of his favorite performers from 2019. At the time, Lizzo was still an upcoming musician and not yet at the peak of fame she’s now reached, making her performance more valuable—a time capsule to reflect on when she reaches her peak. Since then, she has grown to become an even bigger inspiration to many and continues to push boundaries with her personality and music as evidenced in her Tiny Desk Concert.

Ahnsa Campbell: Sesame Street

Sesame Street is a name that gives nostalgia to a more carefree and simple time. The television program, which has aired since 1969, has been an important and enjoyable show in the lives of many children and adults for generations. Seeing your favorite characters sit and sing the theme song “Sunny Days”, along with many other favorites, brings back memories and a warm feeling from childhood for many. Playing on nostalgia, this Tiny Desk Concert is a friendly reminder of an amazing and memorable show. Similarly, the kids featured in the video and those who watch the show in the present are able to recognize characters and songs throughout the performance. This video is a fun, lighthearted way for NPR to use their platform. Sesame Street’s Tiny Desk Concert can evoke something in anyone and is a different take on the classic children’s TV show that many people love and remember. 

Hanif Amanullah: Anderson .Paak

Brandon Paak Anderson, otherwise known as Anderson .Paak, is on the fast-track to R&B fame. His 2016 Tiny Desk Concert has racked up over 47 million views, and it’s not hard to see why–his incredible drumming-while-singing talents are on full display. Paak’s sonically-wide and produced soul-saturated songs are always a joy to listen to, with moods ranging from cheerfully-boisterous, social commentary-tinged ragers to post-party beats that bring to mind chill weekend mornings. His set mostly includes hits from his breakout 2016 album “Malibu” (like “Put Me Thru,” “Come Down” and “Heart Don’t Stand A Chance”), as well as “Suede,” a jam created by both Paak and artist NxWorries. All four songs come alive in this concert, as Paak (immaculately dressed in a white shirt, a black coat, and gold chains) coaxes precise 16th notes out of his drum kit and belts out in his warm, gritty voice with a huge smile on his face. Backed by The Free Nationals band, the arrangements are basically entirely new songs–with extended and clean guitar solos, funky breakdowns, and piano freestyles, Paak’s and the Nationals’ musicianship is for the first time shown to the public in all it’s beautiful glory. Best of all is Paak’s attitude: when not singing with a shining-teeth smile, he’s playfully teasing his bandmates, cracking jokes and jamming out in what feels like a very relaxed concert. And it is–seeing a rising star like Paak in such an intimate setting is priceless, and to this day his Tiny Concert is in that way unmatched.