Tyler, the Creator brought his long-awaited Chromakopia album to life with a rare, intimate performance at Brooklyn Navy Yard in a show packed with raw energy and emotion
The three-year wait for Chromakopia marked the longest gap Tyler, the Creator fans had ever endured between albums. Previously known for releasing music every other year, Tyler took his time with this project, focusing on other ventures such as expanding his fashion brand, Le Fleur. He made this decision at the height of his career, following the massive success of 2021’s Call Me If You Get Lost, which cemented his status as one of music’s most prominent names.
After teasing two snippets on Instagram in early October, Tyler officially announced the album and released it on Oct. 28. He then did something few artists at his level would dare to do: instead of launching a stadium tour, he offered intimate shows in select cities for just $5 per ticket.
I had the opportunity to attend the Brooklyn show at the Brooklyn Navy Yard. Announced just six hours before its start time, the event drew many fans who endured an hour-long wait in the cold. Tyler was set to hit the stage at “4 PM SHARP.” Tickets were scanned near a dock, with the stage visible in the distance: two green cargo crates sitting on an anchoredboat, graffitied with the word Chromakopia.
In typical Tyler fashion, the performance began half an hour later than advertised. But the wait was worth it. Seeing an artist of his caliber in such an intimate setting was a rare treat. Tyler performed the entire album solo, pouring infectious energy into every song. His stage presence was magnetic as he marched onto the platform like a soldier, mimicking the movements from the album’s promotional video. Flailing his arms and dancing with abandon, Tyler maintained a fiery intensity throughout the show, proving once again why he remains one of the most dynamic performers in music.
Tyler stepped onto the stage dressed in a green military uniform paired with a leather mask, a look featured in the album’s promotional video and cover art. His entrance was commanding, setting the tone for an unforgettable performance. He began with the album’s intro, sounding as precise and polished as he does on the studio recording.
As he progressed through Chromakopia, Tyler skillfully guided the audience through emotions. During Sticky, a high-energy anthem, he sprinted across the stage, yelling passionately into the microphone. Moments later, he shifted the mood entirely, sitting down on stage to deliver Hey Jane, a deeply personal track where he reflects on a recent pregnancy scare.
It’s remarkable to witness Tyler bring what may be his most personal album to date to life with such confidence and gusto. He didn’t shy away from the raw emotions embedded in the music, performing each track with the same vulnerability he intended to evoke. Whether he was bouncing across the stage or sitting in introspection, Tyler’s ability to connect with the audience remained unwavering.
The intimate setting amplified his performance. With the green cargo crates and anchored boat as his unconventional stage, Tyler delivered a show that felt both monumental and personal. By the end, it was clear: this was a journey through the world of Chromakopia, led by an artist at the peak of his creative powers.
The highlight of the performance came during Mask Off. As the song reached its climax, Tyler removed his leather mask, revealing his face for the first time during the show. The crowd erupted in cheers, their energy mirroring the raw emotion of the moment.
Tyler concluded the night with I Hope You Find Your Way Home, the album’s outro. The track, which ends with a tender piano solo, was performed in its entirety. Instead of stepping off stage, Tyler stood atop one of the cargo crates, fingering the notes in the air as the music played. He gazed over the crowd and the New York City skyline, a moment of quiet reflection that seemed to capture his gratitude for how far he’s come.
