BA’s Top Tiny Desk Concert Performances of 2023

One topic that seemed to trend in 2023 was NPR’s Tiny Desk music series.  The show features musical performers who play behind the desk of Bob Boilen, one of the show’s co-creators.

The range of acts varies from obscure alternative rock bands to iconic figures in rap. However, there’s a single guideline to follow while guests are starring in the show: every piece of equipment must fit behind the desk. This means no PA systems, no intricate effects setups, and no sophisticated electronics are allowed. Nevertheless, the series continues to keep us entertained. Here’s a look at some of our favorite concerts from last year.

Tank

During Black Music Month, Tank delivered an outstanding performance that captivated social media, showcasing his timeless vocals and undeniable songwriting prowess. In addition to performing a lineup of his classic hits like “Please Don’t Go” and “When We,” he also shared insights into songs he had penned for other artists, such as “Regret” for LeToya Luckett, “Naked” for Marques Houston, and “O” for Omarion.

Juvenile

In June, Juvenile finally graced the Tiny Desk Concert stage, joined by Mannie Fresh. The renowned New Orleans rapper treated the audience to renditions of his chart-topping hits, such as “Project Chick” and “Slow Motion,” the latter dominating the Billboard Hot 100 charts for two consecutive weeks in 2004. For his 2006 single “Rodeo,” the vocal duties were seamlessly handled by The Amours, a sisterly duo hailing from Washington, D.C.

Juvenile concluded the performance with his iconic 1998 track, “Back That Thang Up.” As he prepared to showcase the song, Mannie Fresh humorously dubbed it “the greatest love song” ever penned. The atmosphere intensified as Mannie Fresh delivered his rap, accompanied by the spirited sounds of a violin, a cello, a trumpet, and other instruments that amped up both the artist and the crowd. Following the song’s conclusion, the audience’s enthusiasm prompted a request for an encore from someone within the venue.

Trina

Twenty-five years into her career, Trina took a nostalgic voyage during her concert series performance. With her band, comprised of a bassist, keyboardist, and background vocalist, the rap icon brought renewed energy to some of her most impactful hits from her illustrious career. Setting a nice tone for the 15-minute set, Trina began with “Mama,” a touching tribute dedicated to her late mother, who passed away from cancer in 2019.

The energy escalated as Trina transitioned back into her 2000s person, singing hits from her debut album “Da Baddest Bitch.” Asserting her presence, Trina prowled through her 2007 single “Single Again.” The performance continued with”Here We Go,” featuring Kelly Rowland, a track that Trina hailed as the pinnacle of her career. She concluded her five-song medley with “Nann Ni**a,” infusing new life into the hip-hop classic with the dynamic support of her band.

Babyface

In celebration of June’s Black Music Month, Babyface took center stage for a Tiny Desk Concert. The nearly 30-minute performance highlighted the singer, producer, and songwriter’s illustrious career, featuring a medley of his greatest hits penned for both himself and other music icons. Among the showcased classics were his 1989 love ballad “Whip Appeal,” Whitney Houston’s “Exhale (Shoop Shoop),” and Tevin Campbell’s “Can We Talk.”

Babyface kicked off his set with “Two Occasions,” a track he originally performed with his former group, The Deele. In a heartfelt moment before concluding the performance with “Exhale,” he paid tribute to the late Whitney Houston, describing her as “one of the greatest artists ever.” Additionally, Babyface also opened up about working with Mary J. Blige for her track “Not Gon’ Cry,” calling the singer “a queen and fabulous.”

Scarface

Last but not least, Scarface breathed life into some of his southern rap classics through a tiny desk concert earlier this month. In that highly anticipated performance, the legendary Geto Boys artist enlisted his longtime producer and collaborator, Mike Dean, along with a live band and backing singers.