Boiler Room and Ballantine’s True Music are continuing the In The Round music series tonight (3 December) with a broadcast from Xian Rooftop in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
The series was created in response to the pandemic and lockdown in order to reunite music communities online and in real life, creating a format for socially distanced audiences in accordance to local health and safety measures. The 360º setup is a nod to some of Boiler Room’s earliest broadcasts where audiences would surround performers.
For Rio de Janeiro, they are welcoming rapper and vocalist for Brazilian rap-rock group Planet Hemp, Marcelo D2. Marcelo is headlining and singer Tássia Reis is supporting. As with all of the artists in the series, it will be the first time they have performed live since the pandemic hit.
Fans can join the stream via an exclusive Zoom open to just 1,000 attendees. The Zoom will give early access to the performances before they are broadcast to the world on Boiler Room’s channels at a later date.
Each edition of In The Round raises funds for local causes. The Rio broadcast backs AfroReggae, an organisation founded to reduce the use of drugs, disease, and crime in local communities through arts and education.
Previously in the series, Mr Eazi performed in London (pictured) with support from soulful London singer Zilo. The two chatted about the show and the state of play for artists in 2020 here.
Elsewhere, In The Round touched down in Johannesburg with sets from fast-rising rappers Focalistic and Marcus Harvey.
Tonight’s Zoom from Brazil kicks off at 7pm local time / 10pm GMT. Find more info and tickets here.