SadBoi: The Rising Star Ready to Ignite the Stage
Credit: Edwig Henson
The buzz around SadBoi is palpable as she gears up for her first solo headlining tour, kicking off at Atlanta’s Drunken Unicorn this Friday. This tour isn’t just another gig; it’s a chance for the rising star to showcase her unique blend of music and personality on her own terms.
A Journey from Covers to Stardom
SadBoi, born Ebhoni Cato-O’Garro, began her musical journey in Toronto at just 10 years old. She uploaded covers of Beyoncé and Keyshia Cole to YouTube, but it wasn’t until her high school guidance counselor encouraged her to pursue music that she took the leap. “My mom was like, ‘Either you’re gonna go all in or you’re just gonna go to school,’” she recalls. That pivotal moment ignited her passion, leading her to a career that has skyrocketed since.
Viral Fame and Musical Evolution
With hits like “Slide” and “Baddies,” SadBoi quickly gained traction, even earning a co-sign from Drake. After relocating to Atlanta and signing with Love Renaissance, she dropped two albums and won a Juno Award for her collaboration with UK DJ Interplanetary Criminal. Her music is a vibrant mix of dance, pop, soca, and rap, with lyrics that keep you dancing all night long.
Amber Grimes, executive vice president of Love Renaissance, admires SadBoi’s artistic vision. “She honors her Caribbean roots while exploring different genres,” Grimes notes. “She loves Lana Del Rey and is inspired to do pop.” This eclectic mix is what makes SadBoi’s music resonate with so many.
A Tour with a Twist
Her tour, cheekily named "Doing a Tour to Make Sure He Hears The Song," draws inspiration from her recent track “Therapist.” The song dives deep into the complexities of love and obsession, with lyrics that reflect her real-life experiences. “I paid off your therapist to tell you I’m the only b**** in the world,” she sings, showcasing her bold and rebellious spirit.
“I’m always drawn to things that have some sort of shock factor,” SadBoi explains, and her tour announcement video, filmed in Little Five Points, certainly delivers. With her signature runny makeup and confident stride, she channels the essence of artists like Erykah Badu.
The Heartbeat of Toronto
SadBoi credits Toronto’s vibrant nightlife for shaping her sound. “You go to the club and hear different types of music, and everyone’s just dancing,” she shares. This melting pot of cultures and sounds influences her music, creating an atmosphere of acceptance and joy that she hopes to replicate at her concerts.
What to Expect at the Concert
As she prepares for her Atlanta show, SadBoi promises an unforgettable experience. “Expect to be sweating. Expect to dance, scream, and just let loose,” she encourages. “I want everyone to feel comfortable, like I’m one of their best friends.”
If You Go
SadBoi
8 p.m. Friday
$20-22
The Drunken Unicorn, 736 Ponce de Leon Ave. NE, Atlanta
Drunken Unicorn
With her infectious energy and relatable lyrics, SadBoi is set to make waves on her tour. Will you be there to witness the magic?
