American actor, writer, and musician Donald Glover—better known by his stage name Childish Gambino—has made important contributions to a variety of entertainment mediums. He talked about his early experiences with rap shows in one of his interviews, pointing out a specific difference between them.
Glover was exposed to many live performances by various artists while growing up in Atlanta in the 1990s. For young audiences like himself, he claimed that many of these events lacked excitement and engagement. The mood of the venue would drastically shift, though, when it came to certain acts, like those performed by T.I.'s protégés Pastor Troy (Rage) and Dem Franchize Boyz (Justice).
To symbolize these less thrilling rap performances, picture a calm lake where fish hardly ever emerge from the water. However, picture this same lake on a stormy night when lightning strikes, sending fish flying out of the water in a flurry. This is similar to how children reacted to Rage and Justice performances: they would become very excited and enthusiastic, generating a lively atmosphere that stood in sharp contrast to other performances.
Glover's astute observation regarding the ability of some artists to establish a profound connection with their audience and produce unforgettable experiences is reflected in this quote. It also demonstrates his admiration for the exuberant performances that enthralled him as a youngster and probably shaped his own later attitude toward entertainment and music.
Glover honors significant members of Atlanta's rap scene with this story, which also emphasizes how crucial it is to interact with fans in a way that makes an impression. His observations offer an intriguing look into the relationships between entertainers and their audience, highlighting the ways in which particular performances can foster a feeling of camaraderie and excitement among young people.