If you’re tired of the same old Manhattan music haunts and ready for an adventure, this weekend the always electric MIA is performing two shows at the Knockdown Center in Queens, which is easily reachable by both subway and bus. The Knockdown Center is a 50,000 square foot restored factory in Flushing with huge, 40 ft cielings that will make for a inciredible, unique venue. Supporting the oft controversial singer is A$AP Ferg, who has been gaining prominence as a member of A$AP Rocky’s A$AP Mob.
In the less than 10 years since the release of her debut album, MIA has become one of the most accomplished women in the world. She’s been nominated for three Grammys, an Oscar, and has won two MTV VMA’s. She’s the rare breed of artist who is beloved by the indie characters and still achieves mainstream success, making a name for herself through a series of critically acclaimed mixtapes with superstar producer Diplo before blowing up with 2009’s ‘Paper Planes’.
Beyond the music world, she’s become a fashion icon, being listed as one of Vogue’s 10 Best Dressed and attaining the status of a trendsetter. This trendsetting sense of style carries over into her high energy live shows, complete with lavish costumes, stage direction, and video work.
Her latest album, Matangi, was extremely hyped, receiving critical praise and ending up on end of year ‘best of’ lists on publications like Pitchfork, Time, Complex, and NME. The album also reached the top of the US dance/electronic charts, and the single ‘Bad Girls’ was one of MIA’s most successful yet.
Tickets are available for these shows via Ticketmaster. Don’t sleep on these unique events!