Winnipeg got a taste of the East Coast on November 6, 2024, as Classified brought his Welcome To The Maritimes: Luke’s View Tour to The Park Theatre. Accompanied by an impressive lineup of Maritime talent—Ria Mae, JRDN, Brett Matthews, and O’Sound—the tour created a one-of-a-kind experience, blending the warmth and camaraderie of the East Coast with hip-hop, R&B, pop, and soulful vibes.
O'Sound. Photos by Samuel Stevens Photography
From the moment the show started, the atmosphere in the intimate venue was electric. Classified's decision to feature his tour openers as his live band throughout the night was a masterstroke, seamlessly uniting the talents of each performer and giving the concert a family-like quality. DJ IV, a long-time collaborator, also played a crucial role in energizing the crowd, bringing infectious beats and scratching that added an authentic hip-hop edge to Classifed's seventeenth show in Winnipeg.
The night kicked off with O’Sound, who captivated the room with his powerful vocals and emotional delivery. Following was Brett Matthews, whose heartfelt songs and smooth melodies drew the audience in setting the stage for JRDN. The R&B star lit up the room with his charismatic presence and crowd-pleasers like "Can’t Choose" and "Like Magic," turning the theatre into a nostalgic dance party. Ria Mae brought her signature mix of pop and introspection, with a short set, leaving the crowd swaying and singing along.
Each opener contributed to the communal feel of the evening, and their role as both individual performers and part of Classified’s band was a testament to their versatility and the mutual respect among the artists.
Brett Matthews. Photos by Samuel Stevens Photography
JRDN. Photos by Samuel Stevens Photography
Ria Mae. Photos by Samuel Stevens Photography
When Classified took the stage, the room erupted. Kicking off with "Anything Goes," he quickly set the tone for a high-energy, feel-good performance. The Halifax-based rapper’s ability to connect with his audience is unmatched—his storytelling through songs like "Oh… Canada" and "The Maritimes," where he played the intro on an accordion, resonated deeply, even with those not from the East Coast. He shared anecdotes between tracks, blending humour, vulnerability, and gratitude in a way that felt personal and authentic.
Tracks from his latest album, Luke’s View, were met with equal enthusiasm, with standout performances of "Good News," "Changes," and "Running." The live band arrangements elevated these songs, giving them a raw, organic quality that studio versions often lack.
Classified. Photos by Samuel Stevens Photography
The evening's highlights came from the collaborations on stage. Ria Mae joined Classified for a few tracks, notably for "Ooh Love," which a group of fans in the front row kept singing all night long. Eventually Classified noticed and performed it later in the set. Their time together on stage had them bled their voices beautifully. JRDN brought the crowd to life with a surprise duet of "Feeling Fine," and O’Sound’s harmonies on several tracks added emotional depth, especially during "Inner Ninja," "3 Foot Tall," and "Good News," where JRDN and O'Sound joined. DJ IV, as always, kept the transitions seamless and the energy levels high, particularly during a nostalgic medley of old-school hits.
Classified’s Welcome To The Maritimes: Luke’s View Tour was a masterclass in creating an inclusive, celebratory atmosphere. By integrating his openers into his set and showcasing their unique talents, he delivered more than a concert—it was a shared experience that highlighted the strength and warmth of the Maritime music community.
Winnipeg may be far from the East Coast, but for one night, The Park Theatre felt like the heart of the Maritimes. This was more than just a performance; it was a celebration of music, connection, and the universal language of storytelling.