B.o.B wants to be known as Bobby Ray. In an interview with MTV, he revealed that going by his given name allows him more creative freedom in his music. After checking out his performance at the Austin Music Hall on Saturday, I don't think it matters what he goes by; this young, talented rapper/singer/producer has a bright future.
With a couple of solid mixtapes and with heat building from tracks like "Cloud 9" and "I'll Be In the Sky," Bobby Ray seems to be on the cusp of something big. And if you experience his live show, you'll leave convinced that he is more than deserving of the attention.
While Bobby Ray wasn't the most technically gifted MC, he has energy and charisma to burn. And his productions, recreated by his backing band, the Eastsiders, were lush and tight. He had great chemistry with all of his supporting musicians, whether he was on guitar, slamming sticks with his drummer Alien, or simply tearing into the mic.
Bobby Ray's performance was so captivating that, despite strong shows from Mistah Fab and Bun B, his set was easily the highlight of my night.
