Author/Photographer: Noelle Lee
On a Saturday night, Central Cee brought his “Can’t Rush Greatness” world tour to Seattle’s Showbox SODO, and I had the privilege of photographing it up close. As someone who hadn’t followed along with his career or music before the show, I was curious. I left impressed and eager to learn more about him and his musical journey.
The British Rapper Central Cee, named Oakely Neil Caesar-Su, or as fans call him “Cench”, has quickly risen from West London’s Shepherd’s Bush to becoming one of the biggest names in the UK rap scene. With hits like “Doja,” “Band4Band,” and “Sprinter,” he has found a distinct voice in UK drill, making his voice unique and quickly identifiable. His latest album, Can’t Rush Greatness, is not his first, but it feels like a full-circle moment as it affirms his journey and ambition, leading him to this stage in Seattle.
As a photographer, the rule is to be the first three songs in the photo pit, and those moments were electric. Right before he came on stage, a short video of him was displayed, getting the fans excited and antsy. The crowd roared as the lights cut and Central walked on stage to the opening notes of his song, “Limitless”. Dressed in a casual white tee-shirt and sweatpants accessorized with blinging jewelry, he walked the stage with purpose, commanding the attention of the room.
Taking photos was a challenge in the best way – he barely stayed still, moving between sides of the stage and connecting with his fans along the barricade. His eye contact with the crowd was sharp and intentional, getting fans really excited. The lighting was quite simple but moody, providing just the right vibe for his music.
After my three songs, I was able to watch and shoot the rest of the show from the side of the stage. From the side of the venue, I got to take in a wider perspective. Songs such as “5 Star” and “Cold Shoulder” revealed a different layer of Central, as he reflected deeply on his coming-up, his relationships, and the pressures that follow fame. “Cold Shoulder” especially hits differently live. The crowd may not have been able to rap every word, but they were definitely mesmerized.
One of the highlights from the show was his song “Doja.” There was an audible shift in energy, with phones in the air, and every voice joining on the infamous first line. He followed up with fan favorites such as “Loading” and “Sprinter” without any drop in energy or performance.
Throughout the night, Central took small moments to talk with the crowd. There was nothing over-rehearsed, just a lot of appreciation and gratitude. As an artist often painted as mysterious and low-key, these acknowledgements went a long way for everyone there.
He closed the night with “No introduction,” which felt like the perfect bookend, a reminder of where he first started and where he is now going. The crowds erupted, with phones in the air, flashes on, an amazing closing to a great night.
Overall, the show’s energy was unmatched and eccentric. Central reminded Seattle that greatness takes time, but when it arrives, it is undeniable.
Noelle Lee I KXSU Blog Photographer