Local and International Artists Light Up Ship Hop’s Open Mic Night
On August 7th, 2024, the Ship and Anchor hosted “Ship Hop,” a quarterly showcase of local and international Hip Hop talent. The event provided a platform for artists to share their skills, test their freestyle abilities, and connect with a passionate community that celebrates creativity. The night was filled with excitement and offered an incredible showcase of diverse talent.
Sophia Olisa—a singer-songwriter who has recently made Calgary her home—was among the performers, delivering soulful renditions of classics from Alicia Keys. Originally from Lagos, Nigeria, Sophia brings a unique blend of pop, R&B, Afrobeats, and contemporary folklore to her music. Her passion for performance began early in life, influenced by iconic musicians like Michael Jackson, Asa, Alicia Keys, and Nina Simone. Ship Hop was yet another opportunity for Sophia to share her voice, connecting her journey from Lagos to Calgary through music.
The open mic portion of the evening also featured an exciting lineup, including:
D.O.M of DnD, a Calgary-based rapper who has been active in the scene for nine years. D.O.M’s music is heavily influenced by artists like Eminem and Earl Sweatshirt, bringing a gritty and introspective style to the stage.
Jambuster, another Calgary-based rapper and producer, followed with innovative sampling and captivating lyrics. Known for his ability to evoke strong emotions and push boundaries, Jambuster’s performance was filled with humor, energy, and a touch of the unexpected.
FINESSE, a 23-year-old rap artist and card magician, who amazed the audience not only with his lyrical skills but also with his unique magic tricks, adding an element of surprise to the event.
PTK, a Calgary-born rapper who has been performing since 2018, took the stage next. Known for his impressive vocals and storyline songwriting, PTK’s performance brought a mix of intensity and reflection, captivating the audience with his talent for lyricism.
Kunz, a UK rapper, rounded out the open mic section with an energetic performance. His connection with the local crowd was immediate, showcasing the universal appeal of hip hop.
The three main acts of the stage were:
POETNT, known for his blend of sound and substance, delivered a performance that connected with the audience. His poetic style, combined with a commanding stage presence, left a lasting impression.
V!LLAH, followed with an exciting set. Singing and rapping since the age of five, V!LLAH’s love for Hip hop was apparent as she impressed the crowd with her powerful stage presence. Drawing inspiration from influential artists like Lauryn Hill and Nicki Minaj, V!LLAH’s performance was more than just music—it was an inspiring experience,
The evening concluded with Troo Knot, a shape-shifting artist and the Founder of Ship Hop – known for his charisma on stage. His experience working with various artists and his background in comedy brought excitement to the event. Troo Knot’s performance painted a unique picture by blending genres, breaking boundaries.and left the audience wanting more.
The night also included a freestyle cypher, open jam session and Rap games where audience members had the chance to participate and be part of the hip hop fun. Ship Hop once again proved to be a showcase of Calgary’s incredible talent, adding many artists to the “list to watch” in the city’s ever-evolving music scene.
Event Photo Gallery:
