Buddy Red releases Bad News EP, plays Boone Theater Nov. 21
The Atlanta musician, son of rapper T.I., headlines a three-act lineup at the newly reopened venue in Kansas City.
By Liam O'Connor ·
Buddy Red will release his debut extended play, Bad News, on Friday, November 20, and headline a concert at the Boone Theater in Kansas City on November 21. The Atlanta musician, who is the son of rapper T.I., is performing alongside three opening acts: The Phantastics, Noah Francis, and Jolsen and The Fear of Snakes.
Red’s musical journey began with an accidental introduction to pop music. He recalls being approximately seven or eight years old when he encountered a Rick Astley song online. He did not understand the internet meme but enjoyed the track. That discovery led him to explore genres his parents did not typically listen to.
At 16, Red began producing beats with the goal of working with hip-hop artists like Kendrick Lamar or J. Cole. He shifted focus to live performance after seeing the film Bohemian Rhapsody at 18. He bought his first guitar the same week, despite not knowing how to hold it properly.
The new EP blends rock, blues, and reggae influences. Tracks include "Sweet Little Mammas" and "Questions (NO!)," which draw on mid-2000s Atlanta garage rock. The song "Sold His Soul" features a reggae blues style. The title track features rapper Lil Wayne.
Red describes his creative process as a method for self-discovery. He aims to create music that feels familiar yet distinct. He cites punk rock bands like The Ramones, The Stooges, and Nirvana as influences, but notes his sound is not an exact copy of theirs.
"It’s a whole bunch of me in it and my experiences in it," Red said in an interview. He stated that he tries to make the music exciting for himself in both the studio and on stage.
Performing live was initially intimidating for Red. He described the idea of playing for an audience as potentially embarrassing. He now views touring as a way to experience new cities and meet new people. He said audiences in unfamiliar places give him fresh reactions that energize him.
The Boone Theater has recently reopened. The November 21 show serves as the release event for the EP. Red will perform his new material for a live audience in Kansas City for the first time.
Red said he is looking forward to the show. He joked that he has not been chased out of any cities yet. He added that touring helps him remember there is a world outside his home to experience.
