Yung Lean & Bladee
Being both Swedish and an internationally recognized hip-hop pioneer is, to say the least, a rare combination—but that is exactly what Yung Lean is. A trendsetting torchbearer of nihilistic, decadent, vulnerable, and emotionally charged rap, he has shaped the sound of contemporary music for years. That he is now at least as big at home as he is abroad was proven at his recent Avicii Arena show in Stockholm, where Yung Lean summarized his career so far in front of over 10,000 devoted fans.
Growing up in Stockholm, far removed from any traditional rap scene, proved to be the perfect incubator for the boundless creativity of Bladee. And with increasing confidence, the Drain Gang co-founder’s cross-pollination of genres has become even bolder. Whether experimenting with trap drums, ghostly European dance music, hyperpop, or scattered internet influences, his supercharged emotional core remains as raw and honest as ever. That Bladee is also an artist with a global audience became even more evident last week when a lengthy profile about him was published on the influential music site Pitchfork.
The two artists share a long history, having performed together on multiple tours and featured on each other’s tracks. Their collaboration took a new turn last year with the release of Psykos—a genre-blending album that nods to alternative rock and post-punk. Now, Yung Lean & Bladee unite for a special show, bringing highlights from their respective careers to the stage.