Fat Joe performs at NPR's Tiny Desk in Washington, D.C.
The Bronx rapper performed a set featuring Remy Ma, Jadakiss, and other guests during a five-year return to the studio.
By Victoria Hayes ·
Fat Joe performed a live concert at NPR headquarters in Washington, D.C., on November 5. The rapper entered the studio with the intent to deliver a spontaneous and unpredictable show, describing the event as an attempt to touch the third rail of the Tiny Desk format.
This performance marks the first time Joe Cartagena has appeared at the main Tiny Desk studio in five years. During that interval, the artist expanded his work beyond music. He wrote a book and co-hosts the Joe and Jada podcast with Jadakiss. His music career continued with consistent album releases and hit records.
The set list spanned more than 30 years of Fat Joe's career. It included tracks from his latest album, Organized Rhyme, as well as previous hits. The performance relied on a roster of returning collaborators and new guests.
Remy Ma joined the stage for four songs. Jadakiss appeared on two tracks. Stevie Mackey contributed vocals to three numbers. Stove God Cooks performed on one song. Dre, a member of the production duo Cool and Dre, provided background vocals for the session.
The musical support included Zo Harris on keys and as music director. Ricky Strings Ramos played guitar. Keithan Foster handled bass. Antwan Amadeaus Thompson played drums. Ted Smooth served as DJ.
Bobby Carter produced the segment. Joshua Bryant directed and edited the video. Josephine Nyounai managed the audio engineering and mixing. Neil Tevault served as the audio engineer. The production team also included videographers Maia Stern and Kara Frame, along with production assistant Ashley Pointer.
Elizabeth Gillis took the photographs for the session. Suraya Mohamed served as executive producer. Sonali Mehta acted as executive director. Bob Boilen, Stephen Thompson, and Robin Hilton are credited as series creators for the program.
