As far as history-makers goes, there are few better picks than Tyler, The Creator, who became All Points East’s first two-day headliner, leading a formidable weekend that brought some top class hip-hop and R&B to the UK capital for two fabulous nights .
Friday began with a packed supporting bill that included AG Club, Jean Dawson, Ravyn Lenae, Vince Staples, Yebba, Clipse, Sexyy Red, Rochelle Jordan and fakemink. Together, they gave the first day an eclectic quality, with soulful vocals and romantic R&B sitting alongside breathtaking experimentation.
Among the main supporting acts, Mariah the Scientist brought the slow-burning romantic drama of her R&B catalogue to the East Stage. One of her greatest strengths has always been her unapologetic vulnerability and likewise, Rex Orange County drew the audience over in droves through his warm, open-hearted songwriting. From hits such as “AMAZING” all the way to “Best Friend”, he inspired many a singalong across Victoria Park.
Turnstile, meanwhile, delivered one of the weekend’s most gloriously mesmerising sets. Tearing through tracks including “BIRDS”, “HOLIDAY” and “BLACKOUT”, the band brought euphoric, hardcore energy to the festival without sacrificing the melodic experimentation that has seen them also hit the mainstream. Closing their set with T.LC. “(Turnstile Love Connection)” for all in the audience their time at APE ended all too soon.
Saturday featured an equally varied set of artists, including Ghostface Killah, Syd, Faye Webster, Danny Brown, Jim Legxacy, Samara Cyn, Khamari, MIKE and Quadeca, whilst bigger names like Dijon continued to serve intimate lyrics soaring over an experimental soundscape, with songs like “HIGHER!” and “Yamaha” standing out as particular highlights.
From the opening notes of “Rain Down”, Daniel Caesar’s soulful set saw his much-loved melodies bringing some much needed warmth to a cold, drizzly London Saturday. His understated presence always highlights the beauty in his vocals and songwriting, making his stage seem more like heartfelt a bedroom set performed for friends.
Baby Keem, however, brought the adrenaline to Victoria Park. Bouncing between hits like “vent”, “Orange Soda” and his big hit “family ties”, his compelling delivery and top-notch hooks made him one of the highlights of the two days.
Yet when all was said and done, the night was still all about Tyler.
Across both days, he delivered a journey through a career defined by constant reinvention. Opening with “Big Poe”, he barrelled into “St. Chroma”, “Rah Tah Tah” and “Sugar On My Tongue”, before mixing things up for those lucky to have caught him on both nights.
Saturday’s audience was lucky enough to also bear witness to a performance of “THAT GUY” and “SAG HARBOUR”, whilst Friday’s audience caught a rendition of “Thought I Was Dead”. A slew of special guests also lit up his second night, with Rex Orange County coming out for the track “Boredom”, whilst the music could barely be heard over the screams when A$AP Rocky hit the stage for “Who Dat Boy”.
By the time the final performance of “NEW MAGIC WAND” rolled into his megahit “See You Again”, any doubts anyone could ever have on the sheer dominance of Tyler, The Creator, were surely put to rest. This is an artist that loves not just music, but on the joy of being fully present in his creativity and artistic identity, as a performer who clearly, sincerely loves his fans. From some of the most interesting up-and-coming artists in the genre, to big names that brought their A-game, Tyler, the Creator’s London takeover was a celebration of the genres upon which he has made his undeniable mark.
Only two nights? Should have made it three.
All Points East will be returning to Victoria Park, London, in 2027.
