BADBADNOTGOOD (BBNG), the legendary jazz band from Toronto, redefines the sound of jazz in the 21st century by seamlessly blending jazz, hip-hop, electronic, and soul. Known for their collaborations with Kendrick Lamar, Tyler, the Creator, and Frank Ocean, they are ready to bring their electrifying live performance to Shanghai. Prepare for a night of boundary-pushing music that will make you move from start to finish.

About the Band

BADBADNOTGOOD was formed in 2010 at Humber College in Toronto by keyboardist Matthew Tavares, bassist Chester Hansen, and drummer Alexander Sowinski. What started as a project born out of their love for underground hip-hop artists like MF Doom and Odd Future quickly turned into a revolutionary force in modern music. Their sound is a unique blend of jazz, hip-hop, electronic, and soul, redefining jazz for the 21st century.

Despite early setbacks—including being told their hip-hop-infused jazz had "no musical value" by their professors—BBNG found their voice through their boundary-pushing sound. Their 2011 self-titled debut and its follow-up, BBNG2, received acclaim for their innovative approach to jazz. Rather than merely "jazzifying" hip-hop, BBNG created something entirely new, blending the essence of both genres into a seamless expression of energy and creativity.

With their collaborations with the likes of Kendrick Lamar, Tyler, the Creator, and Frank Ocean, BBNG has become synonymous with the evolution of contemporary jazz. Their presence in the world of hip-hop, electronic, and soul music is a testament to their versatility and ability to transcend genre boundaries.

Why BBNG is Revolutionary

BBNG is not just a jazz band—they are redefining what jazz is in the 21st century. They bring a fresh approach to jazz music by blending it with genres like hip-hop and soul, creating a sound that speaks to both purists and newcomers. They are masters of technicality, but their music never feels inaccessible. Instead, they have proven that intricate musicianship can exist alongside groove, energy, and modern relevance.

Their collaborations with global music icons have propelled them to the forefront of contemporary music. From Kendrick Lamar's DAMN. to their own Grammy-nominated projects, BBNG has proven time and again that jazz can be as forward-thinking and exciting as any other genre. Their live shows have become legendary for their ability to turn a traditional jazz concert into an all-out celebration of sound and energy.

What to Expect

BBNG’s Shanghai performance promises to be an experience like no other. Their high-octane live sets are known for creating an atmosphere where fans can lose themselves in the music, their bodies moving to the beats that range from smooth jazz grooves to electrifying hip-hop-inspired rhythms. Expect complex instrumentation, tight rhythms, and an overall sonic journey that will have you dancing and thinking at the same time.

Why Go

This is a one-of-a-kind opportunity to witness one of the most innovative and exciting acts in modern jazz live. BBNG has spent years breaking down genre boundaries, and their live shows are a testament to their commitment to pushing musical boundaries. With their diverse catalog and collaborations with artists like Kendrick Lamar, Frank Ocean, and Tyler, the Creator, this is not just a jazz concert—it’s a multi-genre music experience that blends technical brilliance with infectious energy。