From 'Bling Bling' to 'Back That Azz Up': Juvenile Rocks NPR's Black Music Month with Timeless Hits

NPR's celebration of Black Music Month culminated not in a bang, but in a symphony of soul, rhythm, blues, and rap, uniquely born in the vibrant streets of New Orleans.

Big Easy native Juvenile took the Tiny Desk stage by storm, supported by a full band that included fellow New Orleans music giants Trombone Shorty and Jon Batiste, along with the wizardry of Mannie Fresh, the legendary producer behind Cash Money Records' hits. Together, they orchestrated a Tiny Desk performance that defied all expectations.

As Juvenile shared insights and reflected on his recording history, he effortlessly traded laughs and verses, delivering his and the label's biggest hits. From "400 Degreez" to "Bling Bling" and even the Hot Boys classic "I Need a Hot Girl," Juvenile playfully reminded the audience of his presence in the iconic music video, despite not being featured on the track itself.

"Y'all don't even know, that's my favorite part right there," Juvenile chuckled, exchanging verses with the animated Mannie Fresh. "I ain't even on the song, but I'm in the video. That part resonates with me so much, especially when Turk jumps in. Now, I know Turk might have a bone to pick with me, but he's still my lil bro. Trust me, that's the absolute pinnacle of the song when he enters."

However, it was the grand finale that truly captivated the audience. With the assistance of a cellist and a violinist from the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra, Juvenile crafted a spellbinding rendition of his timeless anthem to the posterior, "Back That Azz Up."

To experience the full concert, watch the video above.

SET LIST
"Intro (feat. Mannie Fresh)"
"400 Degreez (feat. Mannie Fresh)"
"Bling Bling (feat. Mannie Fresh)"
"Ha"
"Set It Off"
"Slow Motion"
"Rodeo (feat. The Amours)"
"I Need A Hot Girl (feat. Mannie Fresh)"
"Project Bitch (feat. Mannie Fresh)"
"Back That Azz Up (feat. Mannie Fresh)"

MUSICIANS
Juvenile: vocals
Mannie Fresh: vocals, effects, keys
Alvin Ford: music director/drums
Josh Connelly: guitar
DJ Raymond: bass
Brandon Butler: keys
BK Jackson: saxophone
Trombone Shorty: trombone
Kevin Woods: trumpet
Jon Batiste: melodica
Jakiya Ayanna: vocals
Shaina Aisha: vocals
Hannah Yim: violin
Jake Fowler: cello