Larry June and Babyface Ray perform together at Red Bull SoundClash in Detroit, MI, USA on October 15, 2022 // Jake Mulka / Red Bull Content Pool // SI202210160457 // Usage for editorial use only //
On October 17, 2022, Red Bull SoundClash kicked off a trio of national concerts with an electrifying clash of sounds at the first-ever Detroit SoundClash. This epic musical event pitted Detroit native Babyface Ray against the Sunshine State’s citrus-loving Larry June in a charged musical battle.
Attendees wait in line outside of the venue at RedBull SoundClash in Detroit, MI, USA on October 15, 2022 // Sal Rodriguez / Red Bull Content Pool // SI202210160381 // Usage for editorial use only //
Red Bull SoundClash is a long-running lineup of nationwide concerts that feature two artists on two stages as they compete head-to-head in a music battle. Originally inspired by the culture of competing sound systems originating in Kingston, Jamaica, during the 1950s, Red Bull SoundClash was born to break the mold of traditional dance hall and reggae-focused music battles.
A converted warehouse hosted the sold-out clash with a backdrop of industrial grit. Outfitted with two stages on opposite ends, the massive event space allowed the competitors to literally ‘face-off’ while performing. The evening’s host, TayCrispyy, kept the party pumping; a livewire enhancing the already electrifying performance.
Special guests showed up in honor of both artists. On Ray’s side was Baby Money, Lucki, Icewear Vezzo, and Landstrip Chip, while June had the support of Motor City icons Slum Village, Payroll Giovanni, Boldy James, and Curren$y.
Larry June performs at Red Bull SoundClash in Detroit, MI, USA on October 15, 2022 // Jake Mulka / Red Bull Content Pool // SI202210160458 // Usage for editorial use only //
Ray and June next take on San Francisco in a sold-out show on 11/3 where their vocals will clash once more. The final round takes place in Houston on 11/10, where blues-rock performer Gary Clark Jr. goes head-to-head with rap legend Paul Wall in a showdown that explores Southern sounds. If you’re interested in experiencing the Red Bull SoundClash firsthand, you can find out more here.
Attendees at RedBull SoundClash in Detroit, MI, USA on October 15, 2022 // Sal Rodriguez / Red Bull Content Pool // SI202210160394 // Usage for editorial use only //
Since it began in 2006, Red Bull SoundClash has worked to bring top talent across mainstream and underground music to create regionally relevant shows that honor the artists’ local communities and heritage. Personally, this is an immersive musical experience that I’m glad I got to be a part of, and I would highly recommend it to anyone. For an inside look, check out our IG reel here.
