Show Review: Flo Milli Takes on House of Blues
By Daniel Rateau
Flo Milli Performing at House of Blues in Boston, photographed by Kimmy Curry
On the chilly November evening, the renowned music venue home to the hearts of many Bostonians, House of Blues, bore witness to an electrifying and star-studded performance by the rising star, Flo Milli. Known for hosting diverse musical acts ranging from artists such as Chloe Bailey to Chappell Roan, House of Blues became a haven for fans eager to experience the raw and simply unapologetic swagger of the young hip-hop sensation.
Hailing from Mobile, Alabama, Flo Milli —whose birth name is Tamia Carter— has rapidly carved out a niche in the rap scene with her fierce lyricism, infectious beats, and unparalleled confidence. As the anticipation in the air reached a fever pitch, the stage came alive with a pulsating energy that set the tone for the night.
The House of Blues, with its intimate setting and outstanding acoustics, provided the perfect backdrop for Flo Milli's dynamic performance. The stage was adorned with a minimalistic yet impactful setup, featuring bold visuals and a lighting design that accentuated the mood of each track.
Newcomer Maiya the Don opened the show and executed a killer performance to gain hype and attention for herself as a new artist and garner more adrenaline for the talented Flo Miili. Performing her hits such as “Telfy,” with intricate stage design and choreography, Maiya surprised all by handing out said Telfar bag to a deserving fan in the audience at the conclusion of her set, right before the extravagant entrance of Flo Milli.
The show kicked off with her signature “Flo Milli Freestyle” instantly igniting the crowd into a frenzy. With her impressive bars, colorful hooks, and outstanding cadence, Flo Milli truly grasped the crowd by the reins the minute she stepped onto the stage. As the bass reverberated through the venue, the audience was immediately captivated by Flo Milli's commanding presence.
One of the standout aspects of Flo Milli's performance was her flawless delivery of complex and rapid-fire verses. How she carries herself as a lyricist was on full display, proving that she is not just a product of her well-known catchy hooks but truly owns the skill of penmanship in her own right. Tracks such as "Bed Time” and “Beef Flo Mix" showcased her ability to switch flows and maintain her stage status seamlessly.
The concert was not merely a display of musical prowess but also a celebration of Flo Milli's unapologetic embrace of her identity. Between songs, she heavily engaged with the audience. Whether that be recording videos for fans on their phones, jumping down the stage to meet with them face-to-face, or giving them the mic to have their shining moment, Flo made sure to express the gratitude that she is so graciously appreciative of. This genuine connection with the crowd fostered an inclusive atmosphere, turning the concert into a communal experience.
Other notable songs included TikTok hits “Not Friendly” and “In the Party,” in which Flo Milli performed with seamless, continuous flows that kept the energy levels high. "Conceited” was a particular highlight, with its infectious beats and clever wordplay resonating with the diverse audience making a memorable night for all that were in attendance.
The House of Blues played a pivotal role in enhancing the overall concert experience. The sound quality was exceptional, allowing every lyric and beat to reverberate with clarity. The lighting design, synchronized with the rhythm of the music, added a visual dimension to the performance, elevating the mood of each song. The venue's intimate size contributed to a sense of closeness between the artist and the audience, fostering an atmosphere of shared energy.
As the night closed, the echoes of her performance lingered in the air, leaving the audience with a lasting impression of a rising star who is undoubtedly on the brink of hip-hop stardom. Her ability to infuse each track with a distinctive personality, coupled with her unfiltered authenticity, sets her apart in a crowded hip-hop landscape. The concert was a testament to her rising influence and the undeniable connection she has forged with her audience, with a glimpse into the impression that will last on future generations.
EDITED BY STEPH WARE