Brockhampton might not fit the description of the traditional “boyband” but this isn’t your traditional artists collective, so an offbeat moniker is all but essential. The 12-person group—originally hailing from Texas and now based in South Central, Los Angeles—is made up of engineers, producers, rappers, a graphic designer and a DJ, and Kevin Abstract is the group’s creative director and de facto leader.
Since releasing his debut album MTV1987 in 2014, Abstract has built a loyal and engaged fanbase built on the back of his vulnerable, relatable lyrics; his message of inclusivity and non-judgment; and the attention and responsibility that comes with being one of the few queer figures in hip-hop. Everything he releases is crafted with meticulous care—from his sophomore album American Boyfriend: A Suburban Love Story to the “prom” he organized last December—and his upcoming tour will be no different. Thanks to a new Viceland series entitled AMERICAN BOYBAND, we’ll get to see how the tour comes together, and how Kevin and his Brockhampton cohorts plan and prepare. [Hypebeast]